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December 2013
Volume 1, Issue 12 Chennai Toastmasters
Speak Out!! The Reverberations 2013 Hall of Fame Special
Reverberation 2013 in Bengaluru was indeed the 'Contest of
Champions' this year. Lucky Toastmasters from the region
got to witness the battle between the shining knights of
speech in armor, fighting for the honor of their clubs and
the glorious epithet of being called the winner.
The team of Speak Out got in touch with four such knights
who found their way to glory -
TM Dhanuja Singh (Winner - Evaluation Contest),
TM KVM Kishore (Winner - Humorous Speech Contest),
DTM Rajdeep Manwani (Finalist - Evaluation Contest
and Humorous Speech Content)
DTM Jayan Narayanan ( Finalist
TM Rajesh Natarajan (Finalist - Evaluation Speech Con-
test).
Read on as they share their tricks of the trade with us.
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
As a tribute to our Beloved Chennai Toastmasters Club (CTM),
known fondly (and rightfully) as the 'Lighthouse club of Chen-
nai', we decided to send out a questionnaire to all our members
in order to gauge their thoughts on their Toastmasters journey,
their feedback about the club, why they love it, and so much
more.
While it is always the right time to receive constructive feedback,
this questionnaire has come in at an opportune time, as the new
Executive Committee Members are all set to take charge of the
club's charge d'affairs. So, flip the pages and find out the inside
story of what the members of CTM have got to say on CTM!
Quote of the Month
"When it is obvious that
the goals cannot be
reached, don't adjust the
goals, adjust the action
steps"
- Confucious
Editor
TM Noorain Mohammed
Nadim
Sub Editor
TM Kush Tripathi
VP– Public Relation
TM Lakshmi
December 2013
Volume 1, Issue 12
Table of Contents INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Editorial Note………………………………………………….4
Presidential Address……………………………………..5-6
Vice President Public Relation Address……………...7
Interview with TM KVM Kishore……………………….8
Interview with TM Dhanuja Singh…………………….9
Interview with DTM Rajdeep Munwani……………10
Interview with DTM Jayan Narayanan……………..11
Interview with TM Rajesh Natarajan………………..13
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed……14-24
Editor
TM Noorain Mohammed
Nadim
Sub Editor
TM Kush Tripathi
VP– Public Relation
TM Lakshmi
EDITORIAL NOTE Hola, Toastmasters!
It's been a short while since I embarked on my Toastmaster's journey,
but I've got to say this: Boy oh boy, is this awesome or what?! I've al-
ready met some great people, learnt some important lessons, saw my-
self improve as a leader and communicator and most importantly,
found some much-needed inspiration on the purpose of my life.
This month, what with the winter enveloping us in its cold arms, we felt
a spark of innovation spreading its warmth in our brains. We decided to
not ask any of our Toastmasters to write articles for us based on a
theme. We decided to break the norm and make things easier for all of
you by giving you all a simple questionnaire.
We picked the questions to help you share your Toastmasters journey
with us and to gauge any areas of improvement that you thought would
help make our club better. We think our initiative was a success as we
saw responses tumbling in by the day! We would like to thank each and
every one of you for taking your time and participating in this question-
naire and issue for us.
Since I hold the privilege of being the Editor for the December issue of
Speak Out, on behalf of my sub-editor, Kush Tripathi, here are some
New Year wishes for all of you: In the year to come, may every one of us
hold the pleasure of inspiring those around us, even in the smallest way
possible, may we achieve success and prosperity in all our endeavors,
may we become better leaders and communicators, may we always find
the courage to stand up for the good and the right, and may we contin-
ue to spread love, laughter and joy around us, making our Earth a
brighter and happier place to live.
Wishing you all a great festive season and hope you all are having an
enriching and inspiring year!
Warm regards,
TM Noorain Mohammed Nadim
Editor
Speak Out - December Edition
4
Whatever the mind of man can conceive and
believe, It can achieve.
–Napoleon Hill
PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS
Friends of CTM, hope you are having a good time with your family and friends in this festive season.
On behalf of the executive committee of CTM, I wish you all a very happy Christmas and a wonderful
& prosperous New Year 2014.
Last two months were very eventful in Toastmasters. Chennai Toastmasters Club and Tamil Nadu
Toastmasters celebrated their 10th anniversary on November 17th. The meeting was filled with fun,
humor and slew of launches for CTM. Yes, CTM launched its first Logo & Tagline in the milestone
meeting & Ravi Baskaran Award for the Role player of the month. TM Ravi Baskaran was the past
president of CTM and was a mentor for many leading Toastmasters in Tamil Nadu. Under his guid-
ance lot of clubs benefitted and grew. He is not with us today. In order to honour his dedication,
commitment and passion towards Toastmasters, the executive committee decided to name the most
coveted award “Role player of the month award” as Ravi Baskaran Award. That is somewhat a small
way of thanking the unparalleled deeds of TM Ravi Baskaran.
After the celebrations and hara-kiri of the 10th anniversary meeting, we all packed our bags and pro-
ceeded towards Bangalore for the Next Big Bang – Reverberation 2013. It was one of the wonderful
international conference organized by an energetic and young team whose collective average age was
only 25! Toastmasters gives such wonderful opportunities for youngsters to prove themselves early
which will enable them to transform as a confident human being.
5
Among all the participants and contestants, one particular participant surprised us all – DTM Rajdeep Manwani. He
was a finalist in Evaluation and Humorous speech contest. His speeches in both the contests were humorous, engaging
and entertaining. Everyone in the audience was inspired by his speech and personality. While the audience were glued
to his speech and couldn’t take their eyes away from DTM Manwani, he couldn’t look at us back. The editorial team of
this edition’s SpeakOut did a wonderful job in interviewing DTM Manwani and you can see his interview along with the
interview of the winners of Evaluation and Humorous speech contest in Reverberation 2013 in the following pages. I’m
proud of this Speak Out team :-)
This term is almost coming to an end. The election at CTM was conducted on December 15 and saw lot of members
contesting for different offices. It is very encouraging to see lot of youngsters taking part in the election process and
willing to serve the club. Definitely this is a healthy sign.
The new set of office bearers were elected to lead the new term at CTM. Under the able leadership of incoming President
TM Prasanna Venkat, I’m sure CTM will continue to rock and march into glory in the upcoming term. Looking back at
the present term, I would say this term was a wonderful joy ride.
At the beginning of this new term, we set goals of winning at Reverberations 2013. We couldn’t achieve that. But trying
hard to achieve that goal, we transformed ourselves. We found a new star TM Nagendra Bharathi who finished as a
second best speaker in Humorous speech contest in Division G conference. I would like to thank DTM Kartik
Srinivasan, TM Shankar, TM Ramesh Daswani who took their time off to ensure that TM Nagendra Bharathi was
prepared well enough to compete at the highest level. I also thank our IPP TM Deepa Bharatkumar and TM Shankar in
conducing the training sessions on Evaluation and Humorous speech contests in CTM which ensured our members
perform extremely well in the contests.
If I were to point out some of the great things achieved by the present excomm team in this term, I can highlight the
following things –
1) Organizing the successful 4ooth meeting of CTM
2) Organizing the training sessions for Evaluation and Humorous speech contest
3) Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Chennai Toastmasters Club and Tamil Nadu Toastmasters
3) Launch of new logo and tagline for CTM
4) Launch of Ravi Baskaran Award
5) Launch of the new website – www.chennaitoastmasters.com
6) Leaders in Pirates of the Gavel table in Tamil Nadu Toastmasters
7) Taking CTM to the status of Select Distinguished Club (as of today)
Without the energetic, excited and enthusiastic bunch of Excomm members in the present term all the above
achievements wouldn’t have been made possible. One incident that indicated the spirit of the present term was about
how the team encouraged TM Bhavani Shankar who failed and felt disheartened while giving his speech at the first
attempt. The team got in touch with him, motivated him, ensured he prepared well for his next speech, provided him a
slot again in the very next meeting and what happened..TM Bhavani Shankar came back strongly, gave a wonderful
speech which inspired many, drew tears from few eyes and won the best Speaker ribbon that day. This one incident
according to me stands out in the entire term and points out to the spirit of my wonderful team!
Now it is the time to pass on the Baton to the new President and his new team. Becoming a President of Chennai
Toastmasters Club is a prestigious achievement and I congratulate TM Prasanna to have achieved that milestone. It was
a dream for me to become the President of CTM as well. After becoming one, I thoroughly enjoyed the responsibilities
and lived my dream. I thank all the people and my team who helped me in living my dream. Life has to move on. Baton
has to be passed. And I will pass on the baton to TM Prasanna in a few days from now. I wish the new team all the very
best and assure them of my support in pursuing our dream of making Chennai Toastmasters Club the best club in the
whole world.
For the last time as President,
TM Sakthi Prasanna Chennai Toastmasters Club.
6
VP– PUBLIC RELATION’S MESSAGE
This newsletter is the "last" for a lot of things : Last one of
this quarter, last one of this year and the last one in my term
as the VP PR of the most prestigious Chennai Toastmasters
Club.
Newsletters over the last six months have been an integral
part of me. I was one of the following for each of the edi-
tions: the editor, an adviser, a helper or an article contribu-
tor, and doing each of these roles was a learning in itself.
I was the fortunate one to have worked with an amazing
team of editors and sub editors: all the brainstorming ses-
sions, working out strategies, planning, implementing new
ideas and the last minute rush for completion will be all be
etched in my memory forever.
It will be too cliched if I said everything was amazing, be-
cause it was not. There were difficult times, hiccups and
short comings. But all these were more of a blessing as they
helped us work closer, be there for each other, learn and
grow together as a team.
Given a chance, I would surely want to be the VP PR of CTM
for another term, so I can make it up for what I haven't done
this term and I'm sure there would be newer and richer
learning. But now that I will not be one, I will still be an ac-
tive part of newsletters, contributing every little bit that I
can.
This is wishing the incoming team the best in all its endeav-
ors.
Vice President Public Relation
TM Lakshmi Lakshminarayan
7
He who has never learned to obey can-not be a good com-
mander.
—Aristotle
INTERVIEW OF TM KVM KISHORE
TM KVM Kishore– Winner of Humorous
Speech Contest at Reverberation 2013
8
TM KVM Kishore is known fondly as the ‘Masala
Man’, particularly after his humorous speech at Rever-
berations 2013. The winner of the much coveted Hu-
morous Speech Content at the grand gala event of
Toastmasters in the region, he shares some of his gold-
en secrets with us.
What was the topic of your speech at Reverbera-
tions 2013? My Masala Dream
Do you think scripting and performing a hu-
morous speech is difficult when compared to
the other types of speeches? Why?
Yes, definitely. A regular speech is like your pay slip.
You can always predict what’s going to come up. But a
humorous speech is like a credit card statement - you
never know what’s coming up. A regular speech can be
well timed with appropriate pauses and expressions;
but in a humorous speech, your pauses are at the dis-
posal of your audience. You will have to wait till the
laughter subsides and then continue with your speech.
So managing the laughter, the script, the body language
and finishing in time is like maintaining a great rela-
tionship with your wife, your parents and your in-laws
at the same time.
Did you expect to win at the finals?
Not at all. It’s like expecting auto drivers in Chennai and
Bengaluru to be honest. It’s nice to expect but hard to
happen. I wished, I dreamt and I wanted to win. But
didn’t expect it as I knew my competitors were very
strong and in those five to seven minutes,
anything could happen.
Also as I heard the other contestants speak, the audience’s response was
huge for every speech and it was too difficult to predict anything.
Please tell us how you had prepared for the D-Day, i.e., the fi-
nals.
I can’t forget the night before the finals. It was pouring, the traffic
was a mess and I returned home only to find that there was no elec-
tricity. I could barely sleep because I couldn’t wait to stand on that
grand stage of JRD Tata Auditorium. I practiced my speech a couple
of times and remained as cool and composed as possible. It wasn’t
anymore about the script or the delivery, but my whole stake was on
energy and creating my presence on the stage.
What would you suggest/advice budding humorous speech par-
ticipants?
a. Experience – It is essential to gather experience and stories and
only then it would be possible to do something original and different.
So collect as many experiences as possible.
b. Experiment – A Toastmaster’s journey provides ample opportuni-
ties to experiment. So before writing your contest speech, try all sorts
of experiments to find what works and what doesn’t. It could be using
a regional flavor, or a different body language and voice, or even
wearing a weird costume. Do your experiments.
c. Entertain – Rather than being just funny it would benefit if the
speech connects to a very personal level to the audience. Using child-
hood, college, work life based themes would help a lot to create that
nostalgia that easily connects with people.
d. Above all, the one thing essential to be a great speaker is to have a
good mentor, believe in them and then abide by them. My mentor,
Dirish Mohan, helped me optimize the script, evaluate my strengths
and weaknesses, focus on the problem areas, effectively deliver and
withstand the pressure of competition. Hence, work with your men-
tor closely and diligently.
What according to you are the best aids to a speech (hand ges-
tures, vocal variety, characterization, etc.)
A winning speech is like Vanjaram fish cooked by master chef Damu and
served by Namitha. It is the perfect meenu kuzhambu {Fish Curry] which
is cooked with the right variety of fish, in the right vessel, with the right
amount of spices, served with love and care and that too exactly when you
are desperately hungry. Banking on the script or body language or vocal
variety alone would be a difficult bet to win. It is better to have a combina-
tion of all of them and ultimately ensure that the audience breaks into
laughter throughout the speech.
With respect to your Toastmasters journey, where do you go
from here?
I thought of Reverberations as a destination but once I witnessed it, I
actually discovered a whole new journey. There is a lot to learn, expe-
rience and experiment. I would want to travel to different clubs, meet
different people and hone my abilities to be able to entertain people
across cultures, ages and backgrounds.
INTERVIEW OF TM DHANUJA SINGH
TM Dhanuja Singh– Winner of Evaluation Speech Contest at Reverberation 2013
9
All those who know TM Dhanuja Singh would describe her
as a 'perfectionist par excellence'. She excels in every-
thing she does solely because of her hardwork, dedication
and sincerity towards the task in hand. Winner of the Evalu-
ation Contest at Reverberation 2013, she shares her experi-
ence with us.
An evaluator's role is sacrosanct for a speaker. It is
your feedback that lays the foundation for his im-
provement in his next speech. How do you strike
the right balance between encouragement and con-
structive criticism?
In my opinion, here is how one can create balance between
the two:
Positives: Enhance the strengths objectively. Do not flatter
with flamboyance.
Constructive Feedback: Be specific and give direction on
how it can be done differently.
Your job begins only after the speaker gives his
speech. Do you feel the need to prepare beforehand
on any aspect of your evaluation?
The only preparation required is to be open minded and
alert. One cannot fit a speech into a prepared evaluation.
That will be an injustice to the speaker.
How did you prepare for the finals of Reverbera-
tions 2013?
Many of my well wishers told me "Continue to be yourself
and be inclined to help the speaker". That advice helped me.
According to you, what are the qualities of a good
evaluator?
Be honest, listen, add value and be empathetic.
Did you expect your win at Reverberations 2013?
If I said "Yes" - that would be "Hind Sight Bias". So, the an-
swer is that I knew I wanted to and I was ready to work to-
wards it as long as it takes for me to deserve it - 2013, or till
the time I am ready.
With respect to your Toastmasters journey, where
do you go from here?
To every other opportunity that comes my way - projects,
contests, mentoring, roles and meetings.
TM Dhanuja's note to Toastmasters in Chennai:
I would like to personally thank your club. I was in Chen-
nai in May for Ovations. The enthusiasm and talent
amongst the Toastmasters in Chennai is infectious.
Wishing Chennai Toastmasters Club all the best!
Thank You for giving me an opportunity for being part of
your newsletter.
INTERVIEW OF DTM RAJDEEP MANWANI
DTM Rajdeep Manwani – Winner of Evaluation & Humorous Speech Contest at Reverberation 2013
10
In Toastmasters circles, DTM Rajdeep Manwani is known as a legend. His humility and prowess only increase his thirst
towards becoming the best in what he does, with his current aspiration being to win a Toastmasters competition in the
international circuit. In a tête-à-tête with Speak Out, he discusses his preparation methodology and more.
According to you, what are the qualities of a good speech?
A good speech should be engaging, entertaining and enlightening. It must deliver a message to the audience.
What are the qualities of a good evaluator? How can an evaluator strike a balance between motivation
and constructive criticism?
I think as an evaluator, you must base your evaluation on what benefits the speaker. It should encourage him to do better
in the future. In all my evaluations, I follow the 2:1 ratio, i.e., for every 2 good points, you must tell him one critical point.
Did you expect it to make it to the finals of both the Humorous Speech and Evaluation contests?
Yes, I expected to make it (laughs). I've won the District Competition four years in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2012. I guess I
was unlucky for the fifth time.
How do you prepare for your speeches?
I start preparing for my speeches at least 2-3 weeks in advance. I redraft my speeches many times, take feedback from my
club members and keep improvising to make it better.
Although an evaluator's job begins after the speaker's speech, do you prepare any aspect of your evalua-
tion beforehand?
No, I prepare my evaluation speech on the spot, aiming on providing constructive evaluation to my speaker.
With respect to your Toastmasters journey, where do you go from here?
I'm focusing on completing my double DTM right now.
INTERVIEW OF DTM JAYAN NARAYNAN
DTM Jayan Narayanan – Winner of Evaluation Speech Contest at Reverberation 2013
11
DTM Jayan Narayanan is an inspiration to each and every
one of us. Having re-embarked on his Toastmasters journey
after a 2-year break, he only wants to achieve more in the
Toastmasters circuit. First Runner-up in the Evaluation
Speech Contest at Reverberation 2013, he shares his secrets
with us.
An evaluator's role is sacrosanct for a speaker. It is
your feedback that lays the foundation for his im-
provement in his next speech. How do you strike
the right balance between encouragement and con-
structive criticism?
While I was in the US, I had been to a club that was over 40
years old. I was appalled at the way they did the evaluations.
They were sharp, on-your-face, honest feedback. Probably it
takes a matured club like that to be able to do an evaluation
of that nature. Most often the objectives of a project are
missed out while evaluating. While sticking to that is im-
portant, two aspects will have to be the focus for any evalua-
tor - content and delivery. Individual feedback is essential
on these two aspects. Always quote examples or 'how to'
while giving away recommendations. Here's where you need
to spend more time. I fondly remember DTM Rajeev's edu-
cational session. He made a very profound statement -
"never evaluate for a ribbon". You, as an evaluator, are not
going there to be the best evaluator but for helping someone
in need. Finally, always end it on a positive note! Identifying
mistakes and putting it across so as to not hurt the speaker
is tricky. An easy way to do this is to refer to your experi-
ence as a speaker and how you delivered the same project
with the similar mistakes. Let them know how you corrected
based on feedback. This will boost the confidence of the
speaker. In my earlier days, during two occasions, I was
asked to repeat a project. It hurt but it worked :-) I will al-
ways remain indebted to those wonderful evaluators who
did not evaluate me for the ribbon!
Your job begins only after the speaker gives his
speech. Do you feel the need to prepare beforehand
on any aspect of your evaluation?
Yes, it helps! Have a standard structure in mind but do not
apply it as-is always. Tweak it to suit the situation. As is rec-
ommended for all speakers, try to be different or innovative
each time you evaluate. Try all combinations. Keep your
analysis short and elaborate on recommendations, or the
vice-versa. Try incorporating the famous "tell a story, make
a point" concept. There are several templates available and
Google can help you hunt them down. Try using those and
make one of your own. Somehow I feel 3 minutes is too less
a time for any evaluator. Nevertheless don't waste time on
gibberish. Pack as much as possible in those 3 minutes and
give away loads of inspirational points that will ensure the
speaker understands his shortcomings and areas of im-
provement.
12
How did you prepare for the finals of Reverbera-
tions 2013?
To be brutally honest, I didn't prepare. I knew I can't do a
great job like my fellow contestants but one thing was very
clear - that I am there to learn and should never let the con-
test come in my way whatever was the verdict. My prepara-
tion was on the frills surrounding the standard evaluation
procedure. I decided I will stay focused on two aspects -
content and delivery. I wanted my opening and closing to be
different. So, went about fetching some quotes that may suit
the situation. One of the quotes by Jack Handey I used and
that really worked as an opening was - "Before you criticize
someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes... That way
when you criticize them, you are a mile away from them and
you have their shoes." I further made it sound very positive
and at the same time humorous. I always believed in situa-
tional humour that is cooked at that very moment. This is a
big risk and I take it always. Sometimes it works and other
times it's a big lesson (smiles). Also, an ending punch line
that seems to have worked is - "Finally, for me, this speech
is like Itch Guard. One can proudly claim that it is devel-
oped from scratch” (laughs). Here's my learning from the
contest that I have mentioned on my facebook wall too - "Be
bold. Be sincere. Be shameless. Be creative. Be innovative.
Most importantly, be different. Stand out."
According to you, what are the qualities of a good
evaluator?
Someone who is sincere and doesn't do it for the ribbon!
Having said that, a good evaluator is the one who is like a
good teacher. A teacher who thinks that I must help this
child do better the next time; and I must do whatever it
takes to impart that education. The education is the analysis
of the current situation which in this case is the speech, ex-
plaining the good and the not so good parts of the speech
with respect to the objectives and giving clear recommenda-
tions on what worked and what did not. Add value by giving
examples and techniques of how it would have worked bet-
ter. Most importantly, pick points from the previous evalua-
tions and reiterate them to capture the speaker’s progress
over time.
Did you expect your win at Reverberations 2013?
It would be a blatant lie if I say YES! My technique in the
Area Contest was a big gamble. Sitting outside waiting for
my turn, I didn't really know what to prepare. I was chatting
with a fellow contestant and suddenly I was called. I have
this bad habit of not taking notes and trying to grab the
speech in my mind. So my evaluation note was almost emp-
ty. As a quick fix, I ended up crushing my notes and doing
some dramatics which worked to my surprise. So I felt this
is a winning formula and used the same technique for the
Division Contest. The win there made it appear that this
technique is indeed THE winning formula. Shamelessly, I
applied it at the District level semi finals too but brought in
a little twist as part of the summary. Almost certain that I
wouldn't get past the semi finals, I thought at least I didn’t
have to work hard to prepare a brand new technique. The
semi finals win was a shocker and it meant my so called
winning formula can't be repeated and over night, I must
think of something really different. The very fact that I was
competing with some legends like Dr. Rajdeep and Rajesh
Natarajan gave me jitters. For the finals, I was in front of
almost 75% of the crowd I have already faced in the semi
finals. So I had to be different and totally different. To make
things worse, I just couldn't follow the test speaker's speech.
I really didn't know what to note down. Situational humour
came to my rescue (smiles). I was hungry and I knew so
were the audience. I decided to dwell on that sensitive sub-
ject. I completely twisted a very sad story into a humourous
rhetorical and I presume what worked in my favour was the
summary - "The opening was like Seminar Hall A, short and
sweet; The content was as elaborate as this TATA auditori-
um but the delivery was like seminar hall B. You left a lot of
us stranded outside." This worked because the audience felt
that I empathized with many of them as that was the situa-
tion at the event the previous day and also that sort of clear-
ly defined the short comings in the speech's delivery aspect
too. I wish to quote Jean-Paul Sartre here - “Once you hear
the details of victory, it is hard to distinguish it from a de-
feat.” I feel every finalist was a winner! Just that, I got a cup
as a testimony. End of the day, it was a great learning expe-
rience listening to my fellow contestants and I wish to share
this victory with all of them!
With respect to your Toastmasters journey, where
do you go from here?
I graduated from an old school of Toastmasters. After a 2-
year break, I have joined back in a new era of Toastmasters
that is bubbling with energy and enthusiasm. Hence it's a
new journey and I'm a kindergarten student in awe of
what's in store for me to learn. I hope to eventually be able
to impart the learning to the society at large and be content
with that great feeling of having given back something use-
ful to the society, especially the student community!
INTERVIEW OF TM RAJESH NATARAJAN
TM Rajesh Natarajan– Finalist of Evaluation Speech Contest at Reverberation 2013
13
An evaluator's role is sacrosanct for a speaker. It is
your feedback that lays the foundation for his im-
provement in his next speech. How do you strike
the right balance between encouragement and con-
structive criticism?
I would like to answer this question in two parts. With re-
spect to encouragement, as an evaluator, I feel it is my duty
to find opportunities to appreciate the speaker for his
speech attempt. Only when you decide to look for good
things in the speech, can you appreciate the speaker’s good
deeds.
What transforms criticism into constructive criticism is the
choice of words one uses to evaluate the speaker. When I
started evaluating, I was very critical and harsh of the
speaker. Though my intent was good, my choice of words
was very harsh. It is only through continuous practice and
help from my fellow members that I was able to transform
criticism into constructive criticism.
Your job begins only after the speaker gives his
speech. Do you feel the need to prepare beforehand
on any aspect of your evaluation?
I believe an evaluator’s role starts when he/she signs up to
evaluate a speech. Especially if you are evaluating a project
that you have not done before, it is important to read
through the manual and understand the requirements of
the speech. I am of the opinion that an evaluator should
have a clear idea on what needs to be evaluated even before
the speaker starts his/her speech.
How did you prepare for the finals of Reverbera-
tions 2013?
Preparing for a contest is different from the usual evalua-
tion we do in our club. My preparation for Reverberations
2013 was limited to speaking to the past champions and
taking feedback on a few areas where I am doing well and
areas which I need to focus upon.
According to you, what are the qualities of a good
evaluator?
Empathy,
Explaining things in simple language, and
Not trying to impress the audience
With respect to your Toastmasters journey, where
do you go from here?
Reverberations 2013 was a great experience. I have learnt so
many things in terms of evaluations. It is time to put them
to use in my evaluations and do justice to the role I take up
(smiles :) ).
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
DTM Srinivasan Kartikeyan
Did you go to Reverberation 2013?
Yes
What did you like the most at Reverberations 2013?
The quality of the contestants in both Evaluation and
Humorous Speech Contests was very high. It was a tough
and enjoyable competition.
The 'Ramp Walk' by Tamil Nadu Toastmasters at the Fun
Night was top grade and very professional.
The speeches by the last four year's District Humorous
Speech Champions was thoroughly enjoyable.
The bonhomie & the camaraderie - meeting old and new
friends from District 82.
Being awarded the The Best Division Governor for 2012-13
Did you have any not-so-good experiences at the event?
Please share them with us.
The overall organization of event was a bit lacking in terms of
venue capacity, food and transport. I felt there was too much
penny-pinching!
What were your key takeaways from Reverberations
2013?
Once they set their mind to it, people can and do excel them-
selves! Reverberations is not just about contests, but a huge
training forum to develop, practice and enhance one's people
skills and organisational skills.
What do you like the most about Chennai Toastmas-
ters Club?
The energy and 'can-do' attitude
What are the areas of improvement at Chennai Toast-
masters Club?
To ensure role-players, along with back-ups, for every meet-
ing are booked in advance, thereby avoiding panic and
chasing for role-players at the last minute against no-show
and cancellations.
New member induction in the ways and means of the forum
at regular intervals
Stronger usage of the Mentor/Mentee facility
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped you?
I joined Toastmasters mainly for developing my
friends' circle. What I have got in return is a great
number of friends, excellent netwworking opportuni-
ties, improved confidence and constant refining of my
leadership skills.
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmas-
ters?
Participation is the finest form of preparation and
practice. Participate regularly in your Club Meetings
by attendance and taking on roles and responsibili-
ties. Participate regularly in special events and activi-
ties in your Club, Area, Division and District. Promote
and invite participation from your non-Toastmaster
friends - share the benefits that you receive from your
participation in this forum.
Remember, help is just a phone-call away in the form
of your mentor!
What have been your memorable moments
this year 2013 at Chennai Toastmasters Club?
Conducting Walk-the-Talk which helped a lot of
Toastmasters improve their skills and confidence.
Helping and promoting Division/District level Con-
testants.
A 'smile' of appreciation and a simple 'Thank You'
from fellow Toastmasters that I have mentored.
Successfully handling over a much stronger Division
'G' at the end of my term as Division Governor.
Being selected for the Best Division Governor Award
in in District 82.
14
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM Ramesh Daswani
What do you like the most about Chennai Toastmasters Club?
The meetings are vibrant. There is plenty of fun and humour generated by
the speakers and the back benchers.
What are the areas of improvement at Chennai Toastmasters
Club?
Meetings often start late and therefore, end late. I think this needs atten-
tion. Also, there is a mismatch between the information in the agenda and
what happens in the actual meeting. This is expected. In such a case, the
TMOD should announce the change to the already circulated agenda.
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped you?
Toastmasters has helped me Immensely in improving my social contacts
and in making new friends. It has given me the confidence to talk to anyone
without hesitation.
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmasters?
Budding Toastmasters should learn from his/her mentor and take the benefit of men-
tor-mentee relationship. For this, the VP-E should appoint the mentor for every new
Toastmaster joining the club as soon as he joins. Listen, learn and lead from the
front. Have your own schedule for improvement.
Club meetings are where you are spending your precious time and money. Therefore,
take maximum advantage of your membership and the opportunities given to you.
Participate, practice and improve from what and where you are, both in communica-
tion and leadership tracks.
I believe in 'KAIZEN'. This is a Japanese word which means learning and inculcating
small improvements at every opportunity over a period of time.
Wish you all the best in your Toastmaster journey.
What have been your memorable moments this year 2013 at Chennai
Toastmasters Club?
Being a mentor for TM Nagendra Bharathi who made the Chennai Toastmasters Club
proud by winning at Club, Area and Division Level Humorous Speech Contest.
Other memorable moments are my participation in the Evaluation Contest, attending
the 400th meeting as a singer, being a part of the editorial team for Chennai Toast-
masters Club's 10th anniversary edition of Speak Out as the sub-editor and winning
the 1st Ravi Bhaskar award for the 'Toastmaster of the Month' in October 2013 are my
highlights this year.
15
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM Sudha Rajesh
Did you go to Reverberation 2013?
Yes
What did you like the most at Reverberations 2013?
Met many interesting people for the first time. It was nice to know
how meetings and clubs work in Bangalore.
Of course, my best moment was witnessing Bharadwaj Rangan in per-
son and listening to him.
Did you have any not-so-good experiences at the event?
Please share them with us.
Well, we were heading to the Taj Vivanta for our Fun Night. And we
managed to reach there just in time - when all the fun was over. It
poured cats and dogs that night
What were your key takeaways from Reverberations 2013?
There is so much more to learn.Some brilliant evaluations by Rajdeep,
Rajesh and Jayan.
Conferences are always the best time to get to know someone better.
What do you like the most about Chennai Toastmasters Club?
The enthusiasm in the members and the bonding between them.
What are the areas of improvement at Chennai Toastmasters
Club?
Work on creating more leaders. Since the club has been around for so
long and is supported by some of the best and experienced Toastmasters,
it is time CTM produced a champion speaker.
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped you?
I certainly have improved my leadership skills, listening skills and inter-
personal skills. Of course, I found some friends too.
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmasters?
Work on each project sincerely with your heart and soul. Don't deliver
speeches if you are not well prepared.
What have been your memorable moments this year 2013 at
Chennai Toastmasters Club?
Delivering my club contest speech in February 2013 amidst all the big
shots like Nina, Kumaran Pethi, CK, Sastha.
Not just delivering, but I also won that contest. I felt happy because I
loved that script which was scripted by my dear Rajesh Narayanan. So, it
was a combined effort.
16
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM THANIGEASWARA
What do you like the most about Chennai Toastmas-
ters Club?
I really like the leadership opportunities, feedback from sen-
ior Toastmasters, the quality of speeches, contests and the
snacks.
What are the areas of improvement at Chennai
Toastmasters Club?
We need to groom youngsters on the leadership track.
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped you?
Toastmasters has completely transformed me. It has given
me the opportunity to meet communication experts and
leaders from various fields.
You cannot get this kind of access to stalwarts anywhere else.
The best part is that we can try to inculcate the qualities of
these leaders in us. I can feel the difference in me and my
skills after joining Toastmasters.
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmasters?
"Consistency is the mother of success". If you want to really
improve yourself, stay in the movement for the longer peri-
od.
What have been your memorable moments this year
2013 at Chennai Toastmasters Club?
Conducted YLP at SIET College and conducted the Executive
Committee Elections for the term Jan 2014 - Jun 2014.
17
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM Sunil Baffna Did you go to Reverberation 2013?
Yes
What did you like the most at Reverberations
2013?
The Humorous Speech Contest. The overall quality of
competition was brilliant. Most of the contestants de-
served to win and hence, the judges had a tough time
filling their ballots.
Did you have any not-so-good experiences at the
event? Please share them with us.
Nothing in particular.
What were your key takeaways from Reverberations 2013?
Inputs on how to write a Humorous Speech script. Inspired by the efforts of DTM
Rajdeep Manwani.
What do you like the most about Chennai Toastmasters Club?
The healthy diversity in the club membership - inspirational leaders to struggling be-
ginners.
What are the areas of improvement at Chennai Toastmasters Club?
The future leadership needs to be more proactive than one formed due to drift.
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped you?
I have improved as a speaker, time manager, leader and human being.
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmasters?
Be regular. Don't find excuses.
What have been your memorable moments this year 2013 at Chennai
Toastmasters Club?
I am on the way to making this year most memorable - I would be finishing my ACB
and ALB as planned (i.e. before the end of 2013)
18
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM HARISH KUMAR NAVRATHNMAL
Did you go to Reverberation 2013?
Yes
What did you like the most at Reverberations 2013?
Contests
Networking with Toastmasters
Did you have any not-so-good experiences at the event?
Please share them with us.
None.
What were your key takeaways from Reverberations
2013?
1. Coordination
2. Leadership
3. Ways to evaluate
4. How to build relationships
What do you like the most about Chennai Toastmasters
Club?
People, people and people
What are the areas of improvement at Chennai Toastmasters
Club?
None
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped you?
1. Has changed me completely.
2. Helped me become a leader in my workplace.
3. Gave me the confidence to liason and speak with clients and higher
management with confidence.
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmasters?
Stick to the basics and when in need, never hesitate to ask for help.
What have been your memorable moments this year 2013 at
Chennai Toastmasters Club?
Completing my HPL , understanding my true potential and great expo-
sure the club's activities.
19
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM LAKSHMI LAKSHMINARAYANAN
What do you like the most about Chennai Toastmasters
Club?
The members are from different walks of life, different ages and experi-
ence and there is a lot of variety in the learning.
What are the areas of improvement at Chennai Toastmasters
Club?
1. The mentor-mentee relationship needs to be improved.
2. All members could take up meeting roles in turns, rather than the
same set of people taking them up repeatedly.
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped you?
I got an opportunity to conduct a session in a college through CTM.
They liked it and I was their soft skill trainer for one semester. I owe
both the opportunity and the training that I've had to CTM.
My term as the VP PR helped me learn poster making, which was of
great help when I wanted to start a business on my own.
Overall, I am a more confident person than I used to be, and am looking forward to a
lot more improvement in the days to come.
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmasters?
We just have to attend the meetings regularly, the magic happens automatically. It
did happen to me.
What have been your memorable moments this year 2013 at Chennai
Toastmasters Club?
The day I gave my CC10. The plain fact that a person who's never been on stage be-
fore, has given 10 speeches now, made me feel very happy.
20
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM Y.YAMINI DEVI
What do you like the most about Chennai
Toastmasters Club?
The motivation of club members, their apprecia-
tion and perfection.
What are the areas of improvement at
Chennai Toastmasters Club?
I cannot think anything at this moment.
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped
you?
Toastmasters has helped me in all aspects of my
life. It has helped improve my level of confidence.
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmasters?
Attend clubs regularly, and speak every time you come to the
club.
What have been your memorable moments this year
2013 at Chennai Toastmasters Club?
Anniversary celebrations, contests and every session I at-
tend.
21
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM Nagendra Bharathi
What do you like the most about Chennai
Toastmasters Club?
I love the friendly environment of the club.
What are the areas of improvement at
Chennai Toastmasters Club?
We need more educational sessions from the
senior Toastmasters of the club.
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped
you?
It has helped improve my communication skills.
Do you have any advice for budding
Toastmasters?
Regular attendance at the club's meeting would help you im-
mensely.
What have been your memorable moments this year
2013 at Chennai Toastmasters Club?
Getting the 1st place at the Area Level Humorous Speech
Contest and winning the 2nd place at the Division level con-
test.
22
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM GURUVAYURAPPAN
What do you like the most about
Chennai Toastmasters Club?
I like everything about CTM.
What are the areas of improvement
at Chennai Toastmasters Club?
Members' attendance needs to be im-
proved.
How do you feel Toastmasters has
helped you?
Toastmasters has helped improve my lead-
ership skills
Do you have any advice for budding
Toastmasters?
Take part in all roles and enjoy every role.
What have been your memorable moments this year
2013 at Chennai Toastmasters Club?
Being the sub-editor and editor of CTM's magazine - Speak
Out.
23
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM MADHAVAN
What do you like the most about Chennai Toastmasters
Club?
1. Conducting of the meeting with involvement and dedication.
2. Courtesy extended to all the members by the fellow Toastmas-
ters, particularly, the senior toastmasters.
3. Snacks are really tasty and of a high quality.
What are the areas of improvement at Chennai Toast-
masters Club?
1. Timer has to use his own mobile. In some mobiles, such facility
is not available. If we are a last minute replacement, then we
would be put to embarrassment.
2. Timing device may be purchased/installed.
3. Mostly, there are no takers for Grammarian and Ah Counters.
These counters are managed by junior Toastmasters. If senior
Toastmasters handle these roles, it would definitely add value.
4. Explore the possibility of making Grammarian/Ah Counter
roles compulsory before every speech project.
5. Table Topics must be easy so that the speakers can relate to the
topic easily. However, most often, I observe that the Table Topics Master tries to
show his English proficiency by giving a lengthy topic and in some cases, we may not
know the meaning since tough words/proverbs are used.
How do you feel Toastmasters has helped you?
However, in my case, the progress is very slow. I am finding it difficult to chose a
topic for my projects. I also understand most of my fellow Toastmasters also face the
same challenge.
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmasters?
For improving communication and leadership skills, it is the right forum and we have
to put in sincere efforts for our progress.
What have been your memorable moments this year 2013 at Chennai
Toastmasters Club?
I have given two projects from my Competent Communicaton Manual and both were
well taken by my fellow Toastmasters.
I am particularly moved by the support and guidance extended by Sakthi Prasanna,
Prasanna Venkatanarayanan and Thani.
24
Chennai Toastmasters Club’s Member Speak
Viewpoint - Member's Thoughts Revealed
TM Naresh Kumar Bala (CTC)
What do you like the most about Chen-
nai Toastmasters Club?
The light house club and the meetings are very
professional.
What are the areas of improvement at
Chennai Toastmasters Club?
You guys are already on top (may be a Biriyani
after some special meetings)
How do you feel Toastmasters has
helped you?
1. How to give feedback: I always thought criti-
cizing is good for others improvement. But
Toastmasters taught me how to criticize others
in a positive manner. The sandwich approch
works great with my loved ones and at office.
2. Networking: I am always happy when I see
smiling faces and I see it at Toastmasters
Do you have any advice for budding Toastmasters?
Ha ha! Advice?! Never hear them because it is a waste of
time, at least when you are young.
What have been your memorable moments this year
2013 at Chennai Toastmasters Club?
The first time when I came to CTM, the hall was packed with
senior Toastmasters and people. I had the pleasure to see
DTMs and others speaking.
25
Chennai Toastmasters
(CTM) Club is one of the
first clubs started in
Chennai to develop public
speaking skills. CTM is
part of Toastmasters In-
ternational (TMI).
Mission of the club: We
provide a supportive and
positive learning experi-
ence in which members
are empowered to devel-
op communication and
leadership skills, resulting
in greater self-confidence
and personal growth.
THANK YOU FOR READING SPEAK OUT
Dear all Toastmasters,
Thank you for reading December Edition of Speak Out. This is the last
newsletter of the year 2013. Next year 2014 we will be coming up with
another volume of newsletter.
Editor of next month’s newslet-
ter will be TM Kush Tripathi.
You can email your articles to
him. Theme of next month’s
newsletter will be “ New Year
Special”.
Please email your contribu-
tions to him. His email id is
Chennai Toastmasters club
Ruby Hall, Presidency Club,
51, Commander-in-Chief
Road(Ethiraj Salai), Egmore,
Chennai
Email:
Website: www.chennaitoastmasters.com
New Office Bearers at CTM
CTM has new office bearers! Here's our new set of leaders
who will lead CTM from January 2014 to June 2014
President - TM Prasanna Venkatanarayanan, VP Education - TM Sunil Baffna,
VP Membership - TM Harish Kataria, VP- Public Relations - TM Kush Tripathi,
Secretary - TM Noorain Mohammed Nadim, Treasurer - TM Selvabharathi,
Sergeant @Arms - TM Ramkumar