The well-read and well-travelled bunch that we are, tonight’s theme was well embraced and we heard some great stories of exploring places and interests.
Table topics chair Peter W set the scene with a lucky dip bag of exploration- and travel-related props. In true table topics spirit, some prompted an impromptu response and others were acknowledged then set aside for something altogether different! Highlights were Steve L’s classic tale of misunderstanding in a Spanish hospital; Sophie Y baking for her weekly hand clinic at Wellington Hospital, and Matt H’s dead-pan evaluation of his own table topics speech.
We had a double treat with not one, but two icebreakers. Gareth D stepped up to give the first speech of the night and delivered a composed, engaging and well paced speech on some of his formative experiences and how they led to him becoming a computer programmer. Agata K gave a confident and animated icebreaker speech on her travels, love of her motorbike, and encouraged us to all visit Poland. Very well done, and we look forward to more speeches from you both!
Sarah B delivered a dramatic monologue from her Advanced Manual, using material from Hamlet. This was Sarah’s first speech as a newly transferred member to Mt. Victoria Toastmasters. I personally enjoyed Sarah’s speech for its performance qualities and for her giving us a different type of speech to enjoy. Thanks Sarah!
Congratulations to Bronwen T who delivered her 10th speech thereby completing her Competent Communicators manual – well done! In her ‘persuasive speech’ Bronwen addressed the subject of discrimination, and strongly urged us to think particularly about subtle ways in which we and others might make judgements without thinking carefully or considering other perspectives.
First time guest Andrew S introduced himself, and seemed to enjoy the evening. We hope to see you again soon Andrew! I thoroughly enjoyed my first meeting as chair, and the different perspective it gave me on the meeting, the speakers, and indeed the club. A big thanks to my mentor Russell, for his guidance and help. And thanks to everyone with roles tonight.
A final reflection: I found Bronwen’s speech all the more compelling for being personal, open and honest. As Steve often says, toastmasters is not about the speeches, it’s about the people. It struck me how empowering it is to acquire the confidence to express ourselves, not just about things in which we have a passing interest in toastmasters speeches which, after all, are designed to teach specific speaking skills, but in matters that are close to our hearts and minds.
-Dan P
