Parramatta Pioneers Club Contest: A Night of Dazzling Debuts
The Parramatta Pioneers Toastmasters Club held its much-anticipated Club Contest recently, and this year’s spotlight shone brightly on a group of debutants who brought energy, courage, and creativity to the stage. It was an evening that celebrated not only speaking excellence but also the spirit of growth and camaraderie that defines Toastmasters.
The lineup of debut contestants was truly inspiring. Ellie, Amresh, SK, and Tan each made their first contest appearance, stepping boldly into the world of competitive speaking. All four took on the challenge of Table Topics, demonstrating quick thinking, composure, and flair as they tackled impromptu questions with impressive poise.
Among them, SK and Tan went a step further, also competing in the Humorous Speech Contest—a category that demands both wit and timing. Their performances had the audience laughing, nodding, and applauding in appreciation.
A special mention goes to Tan, who made his Club Contest debut in both Table Topics and Humorous Speech—and walked away as the Humorous Speech Contest winner! His natural storytelling, sharp humor, and confident delivery won over both judges and audience members. Tan’s enthusiasm was infectious, and his victory marked a milestone moment not just for him, but for the entire club.
Now, as Tan prepares to represent the Parramatta Pioneers at the Area 13 Contest, excitement is building within the club. His journey from first-time contestant to Area-level competitor in just one night embodies what Toastmasters is all about: stepping out of comfort zones, embracing challenges, and celebrating progress.
The Parramatta Pioneers Club extends heartfelt congratulations to all debutants for their courage and participation. Whether it’s your first contest or your fiftieth, each experience is a step toward becoming a more confident communicator. With such promising talent emerging, the future of the club looks brighter—and funnier—than ever.
By Nakita Ruiz (Parramatta Pioneers Toastmasters)
The Voice I Never Knew I Had: My Journey from Fear to Freedom
Growing up, I was the king of avoidance—at least when it came to the stage. School plays? Presentations? I didn't participate in a single stage program during my entire childhood. The thought of speaking in front of a group of people wasn’t just uncomfortable; it was paralyzing. This deep-seated fear followed me straight into my professional life, creating a struggle that felt impossible to win.
The Warning Shot
My workplace became a constant source of anxiety. In management meetings, my best ideas would die in silence because I simply couldn’t articulate them. When I did try to speak, my lack of confidence turned my voice into a soft, hard-to-follow murmur. I felt invisible.
The low point arrived in 2018 during my annual performance review. My manager delivered the words that hit me like a physical blow: "You need to work on your communication skills."
It was a warning sign, a flash of red light saying my career was at risk if I didn’t change. Deep down, I knew she was absolutely right. My fear was holding me back, both professionally and personally.
Searching for a Solution
Determined to break free, I threw myself into online searches. I watched hours of YouTube videos, trying to absorb the theory, but I quickly realized the truth: you can't learn to swim by watching videos. I was getting knowledge but no practice, and the fear remained firmly rooted.
Then, through a colleague of my wife’s, I heard a word that would change everything: Toastmasters.
Curiosity sparked, I searched for a club and found Nepean Valley Toastmasters, just two kilometers from my home. I still remember that day—a rainy evening in July 2019—when I attended my first meeting as a guest. The room was buzzing with smiles, confident speakers, and palpable positive energy. Everyone seemed so composed, so articulate. I felt completely out of place.
When they asked me how I felt at the end of the meeting, I mumbled, “It was good.” My voice was so soft, no one could even hear me!
On the way home, my rational mind screamed, “This is not the right place for you.” But a small, persistent voice whispered, “If you really want to grow, you need to stay.”
So, I went back the next week. And this time, I joined.
"Just Go Through It"
The first few months were tough. Every meeting brought a wave of anxiety. As I practiced my first Icebreaker speech, I confessed my fear to my nine-year-old son. His simple, profound advice gave me the courage I needed: “To get rid of the fear, just go through it.”
I took his words to heart. My Icebreaker was supposed to be five to seven minutes—I finished in barely two! My voice trembled, and my hands shook, but I completed it. That short, shaky moment was the real start of my transformation.
Week after week, speech after speech, and evaluation after evaluation, I began to see progress. Toastmasters is a safe space—a supportive community where you are encouraged to make mistakes, learn, and grow. My fellow members celebrated every small win. I am immensely grateful for the invaluable guidance from my mentors—Punya Adhikari, Raymond Hook, Bradley Silk, Lynne Trackman, Adrian Fruigniet, Thilini Weerasooriya, Santoshi Machanccari, and many others—each feedback session helped me chip away at my lack of confidence.
The Confidence to Lead
Fast forward to today.
In 2023, I had the honor of serving as the President of Nepean Valley Toastmasters. In the 2024–25 term, I took on a new challenge as Area 28 Director of Western Division.
The person who once couldn't express an idea in a workplace meeting is now leading teams, hosting webinars, and confidently running his own business. I stand tall today—not just as a better speaker, but as a more confident leader, a better listener, and a more effective communicator overall.
If you are reading this and struggling with fear, hesitation, or a lack of confidence, remember my story. Toastmasters can absolutely change your life, just as it changed mine.
All it takes is:
A decision to start.
A commitment to keep going.
The courage to simply show up—rain or shine.
Find your nearest club. Attend a meeting. Take that first step.
Your journey from fear to freedom begins there.
By Sudhesh Valappil (Nepean Valley Toastmasters) | Edited by Ramalka Kasige DTM
Laughter and Wit Shine at Area 28 Contest Night
Area 28’s contest night was filled with energy, excitement, and laughter as clubs from across the area gathered to celebrate the art of speaking. The event brought together passionate Toastmasters from Nepean Valley, Mount Druitt Koori, Penrith CBD, and St Clair clubs, each eager to showcase their talent, courage, and growth. Two stars stood out among the night’s fierce competition — Anne from Penrith CBD Toastmasters, who captured hearts and laughter as the Humorous Speech Contest winner, and Dianne from St Clair Toastmasters, who impressed with her quick thinking to become the Table Topics Champion.
Anne’s speech was a masterclass in comedy and storytelling. Her ability to turn everyday moments into side-splitting humour left the audience roaring with laughter. With expressive delivery, impeccable timing, and a touch of self-deprecating charm, Anne proved that laughter truly is the universal language of connection. All praised her for balancing humour with relatability, creating a speech that not only entertained but also inspired. Her win was a proud moment for Penrith CBD Toastmasters, whose members cheered her on with pride.
Meanwhile, the Table Topics contest showcased the power of impromptu speaking — and Dianne from St Clair Toastmasters rose to the challenge with brilliance. When given an unexpected question, she responded with calm confidence, weaving her answer into a thoughtful, engaging mini-speech that impressed both the audience and the judges. Her composure, quick wit, and structured delivery made her performance stand out in a contest where every second counts. Dianne’s win demonstrated the importance of active listening, clarity of thought, and the Toastmasters spirit of “thinking on your feet.”
The evening wasn’t just about competition — it was a celebration of communication, camaraderie, and courage. Area Director Punya and contest officials ensured the night ran smoothly, maintaining the high standards and professionalism that Toastmasters are known for. Guests, contestants, and members alike enjoyed a night that reminded everyone why they joined Toastmasters in the first place — to learn, laugh, and lead.
As the curtains closed, Anne and Dianne advanced to the next level, carrying the hopes of Area 28 with them. Their victories reflected not only individual excellence but also the supportive communities behind them. With humour and heart, both champions embodied the Toastmasters motto: Where leaders are made.
Congratulations to Anne and Dianne — Area 28’s shining stars!
By Kanga Cooley (Mount Druitt Koori Toastmasters) | Reviewed by Ramalka Kasige DTM
Speechcraft: Grow Your Club While Growing New Speakers
Are you looking for a way to energize your Toastmasters club, attract new members, and give back to your community?
Speechcraft could be the answer.
Speechcraft is a short, intensive public speaking course designed by Toastmasters International to introduce non-members to the fundamentals of communication and leadership. It offers a condensed version of the Toastmasters experience, giving participants a taste of what the program has to offer; and giving clubs a powerful tool for membership growth and community engagement.
Speechcraft is typically run over four to eight sessions and can be delivered in person or online. During the course, participants (known as Speechcrafters) learn essential speaking and leadership skills, guided by experienced Toastmasters from your club. They prepare and present speeches, practice impromptu speaking, and receive constructive feedback; all in a supportive, learn-by-doing environment.
Speechcraft is not only an educational outreach initiative, it is also one of the best and proven membership building tools Toastmasters has to offer.
Why Should Your Club Run a Speechcraft Course?
Here are just a few of the reasons clubs choose to run Speechcraft:
1. Grow Your Membership
By showcasing what Toastmasters is all about in a low-commitment format, you give participants a clear path to becoming members. The supportive mentorship they receive during the course often builds strong connections that translate into long-term club engagement.
2. Develop Your Current Members
Running a Speechcraft course gives existing members an opportunity to grow their leadership and mentoring skills. Acting as coordinators, speech evaluators, or educational presenters lets your members flex their experience in new and rewarding ways and can even help them complete Pathways projects.
3. Build Community Connections
Whether you are reaching out to local professionals, students, business groups, or nonprofits, Speechcraft positions your club as a resource for communication and leadership development in your community. It can be a fantastic way to create partnerships and raise your club’s profile.
What's Included in the Speechcraft Digital Experience?
Toastmasters International offers a fully digital Speechcraft experience, which includes:
Online access for coordinators and participants
Speechcrafter workbooks
Coordinator guides and session outlines
Customizable content to suit your club’s style and format
Tools for both in-person and online delivery
The digital format gives clubs flexibility in how they present the program and reduces administrative overhead.
Getting Started
Running a successful Speechcraft course does not require a large club or extensive resources or previous experience. Just a few committed members and a clear plan. Here are a few tips to get started:
Form a small organizing team. Identify members willing to help coordinate and mentor.
Choose your format. Decide how many sessions to offer and whether to run them weekly, bi-weekly, or over a few intensive days.
Promote the program. Use social media, word-of-mouth, community boards, and local organizations to attract participants.
Follow up. After the course, make it easy for Speechcrafters to join your club by inviting them to regular meetings and explaining the benefits of membership.
Conclusion
Speechcraft is more than a course; it is a bridge between the community and your club. It is a proven way to showcase the value of Toastmasters, help people find their voice, and strengthen your club in the process.
If your club is looking to make an impact and grow in the coming year, consider running a Speechcraft course. You will be amazed at what it can do; not just for your participants, but for your members and your club as a whole.
Getting started can be the hardest part; but you are not alone. District 90 Speechcraft Chair Sabesh is here to support you every step of the way; from planning and preparation to running the course.
By Sabesh Sitsabesan DTM (D90 Speechcraft Chair 2025/26)
Image credits: Mike Kano-McCallum DTM (Cover photo), Paul Sterman and https://shop.toastmasters.org/shop/8600--Speechcraft-Digital-Bundle
A Letter from your District Director
Dear Toastmasters of District 90,
Thank you for renewing your membership with your club! I’m so proud that you continue to invest in improving yourself and your communication and leadership skills. I’m sure many Treasurers are breathing a sigh of relief now that September is over and the semi-annual payments have been completed.
A huge thank you and shout-out to all our Club Treasurers for ensuring payments were made on time to Toastmasters International — your diligence keeps our clubs strong and thriving!
It’s hard to believe three months have already passed since I last wrote to you. August was an exciting month as the Trio — Nellie (PQD), Elizabeth (CGD), and I — travelled to Pennsylvania for District Leader Training and the Toastmasters International Convention. One of my proudest moments was receiving the Award for Excellence for achieving Distinguished Clubs across our District as PQD last year!
When non-Toastmasters ask what a Distinguished District means, I tell them it’s like having a District where most clubs are rated five stars or more!
Each Distinguished Club point is like earning a star — and together, these stars reflect the strength and success of our clubs. Every time you complete and submit a Pathways level through Toastmasters International, you’re helping your club shine a little brighter and bringing your club and our District closer to being Distinguished.
September was another milestone month, with our first District Executive Council (DEC) and District Council (DC) meetings of the year.
To clarify the difference:
The DEC Meeting is attended by District leaders and focuses on planning and managing District operations.
The DC Meeting includes club representatives who vote on important District decisions, budgets, and officer elections.
My heartfelt thanks to all DEC and DC members who attended the meeting.
Your participation was vital — without you, and without the majority of club representatives present, we could not have passed the budget or discussed and approved key decisions affecting our members. Two of the key decisions passed were:
Starting from the 2026–2027 Toastmasters year, one of the four speech contests will be conducted online.
All contests will be held during our Annual Conference in May.
You can request a copy of the District Council minutes by contacting our Administration Manager, Margaret Payne, DTM, at am@d90tm.au.
September also brought several club milestones and celebrations!
I had the privilege of attending three very special events — Parramatta Toastmasters’ 59th anniversary, Springwood Toastmasters’ 1000th meeting, and Up Up Toastmasters’ 200th meeting. Each occasion was grand and heartwarming, filled with inspiring speeches, thought-provoking Table Topics, and that unmistakable Toastmasters camaraderie. And yes — there was cake! Beautifully decorated, wonderfully shared, and absolutely delicious. The photos below capture members of Springwood Toastmasters and Up Up Toastmasters cutting their respective celebratory cake.
I truly love attending club meetings — connecting with members, hearing your stories, and witnessing the spirit of growth and support that defines Toastmasters. My goal is for every member to be happy, feel valued, and get the very best out of their Toastmasters journey. If you see me at a meeting or event, please do come and say hello!
You may have also heard about the enhancements to Pathways, our Toastmasters learning program. The Pathways Enhancement Series brings back the best elements of our beloved manuals, updated with flexible, modern projects for today’s communicators and leaders. It’s smoother, simpler, and more inspiring than ever — keeping the heart of Toastmasters while adding a contemporary touch. We want every member to enjoy this journey and gain the most from it, and to help, we’ll be running fun, hands-on training sessions soon — stay tuned!
Finally, I was pleased to be invited to join discussions with the Region 12 Alignment Chair on the upcoming realignment. This collaboration gives us the chance to share insights, ensure our members remain well-supported, and focus on what matters most — maintaining the strength of our existing clubs while creating opportunities for new club growth across District 90.
Let’s keep our clubs strong — and make sure each one reaches charter strength of 20 members. Together, we can continue building a vibrant, supportive, and distinguished District where every member thrives and enjoys the very best of Toastmasters!
Warm regards,
Ramani 😊
Ramani Warusevitane, DTM
District Director 2024–2025
District 90 Toastmasters
I choose to stay happy
Happiness — such a small word,
Yet it carries the weight of everything we long for.
For years, I thought it happened to me —
When things went right, when people were kind,
When life felt easy.
But life doesn’t always go that way, does it?
Some days test you.
Some moments break you.
Some people disappoint you.
And I realized —
If I keep waiting for happiness to arrive,
I might wait forever.
So I made a choice.
A simple, powerful choice —
I choose to stay happy.
Because happiness is not luck — it’s a discipline.
You have to choose it.
Like working out,
You have to stay present with it,
Move with it,
Make decisions to protect it.
Now I see beauty in small things —
The warmth of the morning sun,
A good cup of tea,
A call from an old friend,
The peace of a quiet evening.
Happiness isn’t about ignoring pain.
It’s about refusing to let pain
Steal the beauty of the present moment.
So when life throws its storms,
I remind myself —
I can’t control everything,
But I can control how I feel.
And I choose to stay happy.
Because happiness is not something you find,
It’s something you practice, every single day.
By Srusti Pattnayak (Hornsby Achievers Toastmasters)
Image Link: https://au.pinterest.com/pin/8022105581814770/
Building Cathedrals in Toastmasters
Let’s talk about perspective. Because the way we frame our experiences in Toastmasters, whether it’s a speech, a leadership role, or a small meeting duty, shapes how much we grow from them.
There’s a classic story, often linked to the rebuilding of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London under architect Sir Christopher Wren in the 1600s. A traveler asked three stonecutters what they were doing. The first replied, “I’m cutting stone.” The second said, “I’m building a wall.” And the third smiled and said, “I’m building a cathedral.”
Same task. Totally different story.
That’s the Stonecutter Principle: the way you frame your work shapes the way you experience it. One sees monotony. One sees contribution. One sees purpose. And it’s that sense of purpose that fuels energy, consistency, and growth.
Toastmasters offers the same choice. You can view it as giving another speech. You can see it as practicing confidence. Or you can recognize it as becoming the communicator who inspires and leads others.
Even the smaller roles at meetings matter when you connect them to a bigger vision. A timer helps keep meetings sharp and professional. An evaluator helps another member grow. A grammarian sharpens our awareness of language. Each role adds to the supportive environment that makes Toastmasters unique.
I’m reminded of how Disney refers to their staff. They’re not called employees, but Cast Members. A janitor sweeping popcorn on Main Street doesn’t say, “I’m cleaning up trash.” They say, “I’m helping create magic for our guests.” That shift in perspective makes the everyday meaningful.
So here’s the challenge: next time you step up in your club, ask yourself how you’re choosing to see it. Are you just cutting stone? Or are you building your cathedral — the version of yourself that Toastmasters is helping you grow into?
Because in the end, the story you tell yourself becomes the journey you live.
Article by Mumbi Hinga (Wyong Toastmasters) | (Reviewed by Ramalka Kasige DTM)
From Toastmasters to TV Studios
I knew that if I wanted to expand my influence as a Feng Shui consultant and share my message with larger audiences, I had to learn to speak with confidence. That realisation led me to Toastmasters — the place that gave me the foundation to step onto bigger stages.
There was one year when I made a promise to myself: I would give a speech at every meeting. At my club that meant twice a month, and that commitment made a massive difference. It gave me the confidence, structure, and presence that I now rely on in my professional speaking.
Impromptu speaking was another challenge. In the beginning, I dreaded Table Topics. I would avoid making eye contact, hoping not to be chosen. The idea of speaking off the cuff terrified me. Over time, Toastmasters helped me turn that fear into a strength. Now, I put my hand up for impromptu speaking and this has become a skill that is invaluable when I’m handling Q & A sessions at conferences.
What also made a difference was the community and the evaluators. Having people who encouraged me while also giving thoughtful feedback gave me the push to step outside my comfort zone and keep improving.
The practice I gained through Toastmasters has led me to share my message on respected stages around the world including Building and Design Expos, Home Shows, International conferences and even on national television. These opportunities have been highlights in my career, and every time I step onto a stage or TV set, I draw on the foundation Toastmasters gave me. More importantly, it has allowed me to share my message on Feng Shui and become a leading Feng Shui expert and keynote speaker in the design and property industry.
Toastmasters has been the launchpad. It’s where I learnt that every speech builds the confidence you need to take your message further than you ever thought possible.
Written by Jane Langof (Happy Hunters Hill Toastmasters)
Reviewed by Ramalka Kasige DTM
Table Topics in Transit
"G'day". A simple syllable, a sunbeam of sound. Yet on buses, trains, and lightrail, it often lands like a leaf on concrete—unnoticed, unreturned. Still, I persist. Day after day, I deliver my cheerful greeting to strangers slouched in silence or buried in their phones.
At first, it feels futile. Faces remain frozen, eyes avert. But then—magic. A nod. A smile. A murmured “G’day” back. Regular riders begin to respond. The quiet carriage cracks open.
Soon, small talk sprouts. “Nice weather.” “Busy morning?” “Heading to work?” These fleeting phrases become fertile ground for impromptu interaction. Table Topics in transit. No script, no safety net—just spontaneous speech and shared humanity.
Each exchange is a rehearsal in real life. Confidence grows. Conversations flow. The shy become spirited. The silent, not just seen, but heard.
Alliteration aside, this isn’t just about speaking—it’s about sparking connection. About turning routine rides into rich relationships. About reminding ourselves that behind every blank stare is a story waiting to be told.
So here’s your challenge: be the brave one. Break the ice. Beam a “G’day” to the grumpy guy, the giggling girls, the grey-haired gent. Not everyone will answer. But some will. And those moments matter.
Let’s make public transport less about transit and more about transformation. One greeting at a time.
Written by Phil Newman (Chandos Challengers Toastmasters)
Reviewed by Ramalka Kasige DTM
My First District 90 Awards – From Chaos to Celebration
I recently attended my very first District 90 Awards and getting there was nothing short of a marathon.
With both major train lines down, my “simple” journey turned into two buses, one train, and a very late arrival. By the time I finally walked into Hornsby RSL club, I was tired, flustered, and honestly ready to disappear quietly into the back row.
But Toastmasters don’t let you hide.
Instead, I was warmly waved over by our Western Division Director, Seema (also my fellow club member) and our club past President, Dhammika. Suddenly, I found myself in the second row—not the shadows—just in time to see Blacktown City Toastmasters being celebrated.
I was so proud to see my home club recognised for:
Bob Kitchener Award
55 years serving members
District 90 2024–2025 10/10 DCP
Club Leadership Training Award 2024–2025 – 7 executives trained, rounds 1 & 2
District 90 2024–2025 Mastery Award (2,4,6,8 DCP)
Home club of the 2025–2026 Division Director – Congratulations Seema!
Home club of the 2025–2026 Area Director – Congratulations Dhammika!
What Inspired Me?
As someone in just my second year of Toastmasters, I’m still learning the ins and outs. Last year was a steep learning curve, but last night opened my eyes to something bigger.
What struck me most were the members honoured for 10, 20, 30—even 35 years of service. That’s decades of giving back, lifting others, and shaping voices. Truly inspiring.
I came hoping to meet new people. I left with so much more:
Pride in my club’s achievements
Gratitude for the warmest welcome
Inspiration from leaders who dedicate decades to this community
Special Congratulations
A huge shoutout to:
Kalinga Wijeyewardene – Division Director of the Year 2024-2025
Ramalka Kasige – Area Director of the Year 2024-2025
Jan Cummings – Toastmaster of the Year 2024-2025
And heartfelt thank you to Pieta and the 2024–25 executive team, and Ramani with the incoming 2025–26 leaders.
I may have walked in late, hoping not to be noticed…but I walked out feeling proud, connected, and inspired.
Written by Kaarthika Varathan (Blacktown City Toastmasters) | Reviewed by Ramalka Kasige DTM
Confession of a Toastmaster
You know you are a bit obsessed with Toastmasters when:
Your social calendar is filled with interclub visits, training workshops, speech contests and meetings with your Toastmasters mentor.
You define your life stage as ‘Before Toastmasters’ and ‘After Toastmasters’.
You rehearse your speeches in the shower, on bushwalks, first thing in the morning, when cooking and cleaning.
You start your conversations with a hook.
You wonder what could be more fun than Toastmasters when people skip a club meeting.
You compliment your spouse’s cooking with ‘praise’, ‘praise’, ‘even better’, ‘praise’.
You notice lack of eye contact, vocal variety and body language when your friends talk to you.
You think of a speech when the waitress asks if you would like a toast.
You draw upon Table Topics questions when striking up a conversation with strangers.
You decline all social engagements falling on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month.
Your friends know not to ask you out on 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month.
Officeworks staff know how to navigate to the Toastmasters folder on your USB stick without you telling them.
Your favourite colours are maroon, navy blue and beige.
You scour the TI shop like it was a gift catalogue.
You spend 6 hours writing your first Area Director report.
You wrap-up conversations at the sight of a red traffic light.
You are horrified when people ask you ‘What is Toastmasters?’
You speak for 5-7 mins when asked ‘What is Toastmasters?’
You respond with ‘The Speaking Formula’ by Dale Anne Clark when asked what you are reading.
Written by Nancy Huang (Chatswood Speaking & Leadership Club)
D90 Contest Judging Workshop 2025
Have you ever been to a workshop and thought, that was incredibly helpful?
That was me after attending the D90 Contest Judging Workshop, held on Sunday, 31st August.
Being a judge at a contest can feel overwhelming, especially when you first look at the judging sheet. How do you, as a judge, interpret its meaning? On the other hand, being a contestant can be just as overwhelming. You may find yourself asking: Did my speech really address all the points on that sheet? That is exactly why I attended this workshop, to strengthen both my judging and speaking skills.
The workshop was facilitated by Annette Roberts DTM and Tom Wilde DTM and we were informed of what is means to be a judge, what are the qualities you need and what are the barriers you run into, such as being non-biased and the Halo effect. We looked at all the sections of the judging sheet and had a very good discussion of the ‘meaning’ of those sections on the judging sheet.
Being a hybrid and interactive workshop, we heard from other Toastmasters in the room and online, their perspective, their examples made me think about my own judging skills and how I present my speeches.
The best part was, after the break which was the “mock” International Speech contest. There were three speakers and we all got to judge them according to the ballot. Normally the contestants don’t know where they missed out on points as the judges are unknown. In this case, we went through the judging sheet and had a good all-round discussion on how and why everyone judged the contestants the way they did. The feedback from the three speakers afterwards was so positive and all three expressed their gratitude to everyone for being so honest.
If you’re thinking of entering a speech contest or serving as a judge in a speech contest, this is definitely a workshop you won’t want to miss when it comes around again.
Written by Sandra Tuinman (Online Evaluators Toastmasters) | Reviewed by Ramalka Kasige DTM
Image Credits: Allan Rees-Bevan DTM & Kaz Lind
Titbits from a Toastmasters travel & training
Greetings all! I’m excited to be writing my very first blog entry, especially because I have just returned from a week in Philadelphia, USA attending District Officer Training and then the TI Convention. Wow! It requires lots of energy to keep up with the pace of Toastmasters events! We were at breakfast by 7.30 am, training sessions all day, dinner then karaoke & dancing until midnight – sleep & repeat! My karaoke days are long gone, but I know others made the most of each opportunity.
What was great about training?
Sessions were varied, interesting & relevant without being ‘dry’. In one team building session, teams had to built a ‘cup tower’ using plastic cups and index cards. We had to take turns placing a cup on the table then an index card on top then another cup, holding them together and inverting them, gradually building a tower. If the tower collapsed during inversion, the team had to start over. My team managed to get 9 cups built and I think it was a great effort!
There were sessions only for Club Growth Directors and some were for the trios. Truly, it was an inspiring and energising couple of days. It would be better when we get to do that all again for the Mid-year training which will be held in Kuala Lumpur in January - I can’t wait!
If you have never attended a TI convention, then put it on your bucket list! It will be held in Vancouver next year and I’m sure it will be a fabulous one. There is a myriad of opportunities for networking, attending fantastic workshops, watching semi and finals of World Championship of Public Speaking, meeting aspiring International Directors, and attending business meetings.
Do you think business meetings are dry? Go to a TI business meeting! While you are waiting for votes to be counted, you can dance in the aisles (or on your chair) & conga round the room – literally!!
Now it’s back to work & also to attending to Club Growth for D90! Luckily I have a fabulous team of Toastmasters to help me – both my CGD team as well as my mentors and fellow club members.
Thank you all for your encouragement and support, you are such a valuable & valued resource!
Written by Elizabeth Lloyd DTM (Toastmasters On Point) | Reviewed by Ramalka Kasige DTM
A message from the District Director
Dear Toastmasters of District 90,
As we begin this new Toastmasters year, I want to share with you my heartfelt vision and commitment as your District 90 Director for 2025–2026.
Our Focus: You – Our Members
This year, everything we do as a District will be centered around you, your goals, and your growth. Whether you joined Toastmasters to become a confident speaker, a stronger leader, or to connect with like-minded people—your goals matter, and we are here to help you achieve them.
We will support every member and every club to:
Create a welcoming and encouraging environment
Provide meaningful education and leadership opportunities
Foster connections and build confidence
Encourage completion of Pathways goals and Club Success Plan
Our District is not just a structure—it is a community. And in our district community, every voice matters, every role is important, and every success is worth celebrating.
Meet Your 2025–2026 District Leadership Team
I am grateful to be supported by a passionate, talented team of leaders who are here to serve you:
Program Quality Director: Nellie Beggs, DTM
Club Growth Director: Elizabeth Lloyd, DTM
Public Relations Manager: Ramalka Kasige, DTM
Administration Manager: Margaret Payne, DTM
Finance Manager: Tanya Wickham, DTM
Immediate Past District Director: Pieta Beggs, DTM
Logistics Manager: Kaz Lind
Parliamentarian: Bob Kirchner OAM, DTM
Our Division and Area Directors will also be working closely with clubs, offering support, guidance, and encouragement throughout the year.
Open Door, Open Heart
I believe in transparency, kindness, and connection. If you have ideas, questions, concerns, or even if you just need someone to listen—I am here for you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
Let’s make this a year of growth, friendship and personal achievement—together.
With warm regards,
Ramani Warusevitane
District Director 2025–2026
Toastmasters International - District 90
Email: DD@d90tm.au