toasted tidings
DESCRIPTION
Toasted Tidings is the newsletter of Qatar Toastmasters Club under Division E, District 20. Volume 9, Issue 2 for you reading pleasure.TRANSCRIPT
www.qatartoastmasters.org Vol 9 Issue 2 February 2014
Qatar Toastmasters Club No. 2910 Area 18 Division E
QATAR TOASTMASTERS
ANNUAL CONTESTS 2013-2014
ATTEND TOASTMASTERS AND STAY
HEALTHY
Mrs. AYESHA RAHUMAN BIDS
FAREWELL
PAGE 7 PAGE 17 PAGE 19
Qatar Toastmasters Club
Office Bearers 2013-2014
President TM Williams Antony
VP Education TM Thomas Joseph
VP Membership TM Jayaraj K . R
VP Public Relations TM Samanthi Gamage
Secretary TM Biju Mathew
Treasurer TM Saad Ghosn
Sargent At Arms TM Eranga Wijeyawardna
TM Jais Thomas
Publisher TM Williams Antony
Editor TM Samanthi Gamage
Proof Reader TM Sarita Jacob
QATAR TOASTMASTERS CLUB
DOHA, QATAR
EMAIL: [email protected]
WWW.QATARTOASTMASTERS.ORG
MEETINGS ON EVERY 1ST AND 3RD SUNDAYS
RADISSON BLU HOTEL
AT
7 PM
I am glad to be back with another fruitful issue of QTM Newsletter
and overwhelmed as it has been dedicated to the fairer sex of
QTM.
February QTM Newsletter dedicated to all the QTM Mademoi-
selles, is a high note of appreciation of the existing madam Toast-
masters by the Excom. We appreciate the contribution of all of you
and encourage more ladies to join the club to take it to greater
heights.
Having been privileged to be the only female member in the Ex-
com, let me share my story about the treasures I discovered in
QTM
I am the quietest person among all the members in my family and
relatives. However, I used to deliver speeches at the school as-
semblies and they were always appreciated by my friends and
teachers. Those days I never felt stage fear or butterflies in my
stomach. However, later in my life, I understood that I found it very
difficult to speak in front of work colleagues or the superiors unless
it was a one on one interview.
I was advised and sometimes warned to be more social or simply
in other words to “Talk More” to get out of the fear or the
discomfort.
But, my idea throughout has been a different one. "In ancient times,
when men were out hunting wooly mammoth, women were left be-
hind to tend and befriend, so they had to be better communicators
in order to survive as a group. Better according to me never meant
that somebody has to TALK MORE.
In my opinion, a better communicator is a person who has a lot of
empathy for his audience (can be one or hundred) and who can
deliver what the audience needs.
So, all what I thought was to speak when necessary and according
to the needs which arise at times.
Joining QTM has assisted me to learn the art of communication.
Even though, I am still the quietest person, like I used to be, my
communication skill in public has become better than what it was. I
learnt how to speak, the best words to use and the best tone to use
by being a member at QTM.
What I learnt at QTM is strength and it is a blessing to my life.
I encourage the ladies out there to explore the world of public
speaking and leadership by being with QTM.
I salute all the members of QTM for your contribution and the
sacrifice you made to the present in order to bring the club to its
level today.
EDITORIAL
Toasted Tidings magazine is published by
Qatar Toastmasters Club, Doha, Qatar
TABLE OF CONTENTS
February 2014 Volume 9 Issue 2
44 77
55
District 20 Governor Visits Qatar Toastmasters - Page 4
Women Power (Cover Story)- Page 5
Club Contest - Page 7
Expectations (By Hissa Al Nassr)- Page 11
Insight (By Nevine Kamel) - Page 12
Superpower ( By Sarita Jacob)
QTM in news– Page 13
A Brit Abroad (By Belinda Yare)- Page 14
Distinguished Club Program– Page 15
The Ultimate Makeover( By Rukhsana Khan) – Page 16
Attend Toastmasters and Stay Healthy - Page 17
On a lighter note– 18
Mrs. Ayesha Rahuman bids farewell– Page 19
Upcoming Events– Page 21
FEATURES
44
77
55
1717
District Governor Visits Qatar Toastmasters
Attend Toastmasters and Stay healthy
Ladies make a clean sweep in the Club Contests
Cover Story: Women Power
Register for TACQ 2014 see page 21 for
more details.
NEWS
Honorable District 20 Governor and our very own Victoria M. Ferrer, DTM visits Qatar Toastmasters Club on 5th January 2014 (first
meeting for the year 2014.
The ladies of Qatar Toastmasters club seated with the District 20 Governor. A group photo taken on 5th January 2014.
TOASTED TIDINGS 4
A salute to the ladies of Qatar Toastmasters By TM Williams Antony,CC, CL
TOASTED TIDINGS 5
It is said that “Behind every successful man there is a woman”. What about a successful
organization? Are the women in that organization equally responsible as the men for its success? Do they contrib-
ute as much as their male counterparts do? It can be a topic for a heated debate!!
As the President of Qatar Toastmasters Club which has 14 ladies out of a 54 strong membership base, I would say
that the ladies of our club have contributed equally, if not more, for the success of not only our club, but our Area,
Division and the District too.
It is for this very reason that this edition of our newsletter has been dedicated to the QTM Eves.
When I joined the club back in April 2009, there was only 1 lady. In 2010, 2 more ladies joined and then a few
more and now we have 14. These ladies have brought name and fame to our club. They are a source of strength
and inspiration in the running of the club, even if only one of them is a part of the club executive committee for this
term.
Whether it is the regular club meetings, Qatar Open Youth Public Speaking Championship, Area Contest, Division
Contest or the Division conducted workshops, they are there to support. More credit is required to be given to them
because unlike men most of them also have their children and / or husband to look after, other household chores and
their professional career. In spite of all that the many hours they devote for Toastmasters convey their true dedica-
tion and commitment.
So far the year 2013 – 14 has been special for these ladies:
Out of 8 educational awards achieved by the club, 5 are by the ladies.
Out of 5 DCP points for educational goals, 3 are from the ladies.
The club Humorous Contest Winner is a lady.
The club Table Topics Contest Winner is a lady. The 2nd and 3rd place winners are also ladies.
The club International Speech Contest Winner is a lady. The 2nd place winner is a lady.
The club Evaluation Speech Contest Winner is a lady. The 2nd place winner is a lady.
This year all the contestants from our club for the Area contest are Ladies. That in itself is a remarkable achieve-
ment. In the present world where women are fighting for their rights we at Qatar Toastmasters Club can proudly
say that we have Madam Toastmasters in our ranks who are among the best in the business and who we are sure
will bring home glory for our club.
We are proud of you Ladies of QTM.
Williams Antony President
Continued…. By TM Williams Antony,CC, CL
TOASTED TIDINGS 6
NEWS
LADIES MAKE A CLEAN SWEEP IN
THE CLUB CONTESTS 2013-2014
TOASTED TIDINGS 7
TM NEVINE KAMEL
INTERNATIONAL SPEECH CONTEST
TM SHAIKHA AL NASSR
HUMOROUS SPEECH CONTEST
BELINDA YARE, DTM
EVALUATION CONTEST
TM RUKHSANA KHAN
TABLE TOPICS CONTEST
NEWS
QATAR TOASTMASTERS ANNUAL CONTESTS 2013-2014 RESULTS
TOASTED TIDINGS 8
International Speech Contest
1st Place— TM Nevine Kamel
2nd Place— TM Belinda Yare
3rd Place— TM Seymur Rasulov
Humorous Speech Contest
1st Place— TM Sheikha Al Nassr
2nd Place— TM Nilesh Oturkar
3rd Place— TM Bilal Khan
Table Topics Contest
1st Place— TM Rukhsana Khan
2nd Place— TM Nevine Kamel
3rd Place— TM Samanthi Gamage
Evaluation Contest
1st Place— TM Belinda Yare
2nd Place— TM Nevine Kamel
3rd Place— TM Jais Thomas
NEWS
QATAR TOASTMASTERS ANNUAL CONTEST PARTICIPANTS 2013-2014
TOASTED TIDINGS 9
International Speech Contest (From left) : TM Thomas Joseph (VP Education), TM Stefan Goedeke, TM Seymur Rasulov, TM Nevine Kamel,
TM Sarita Jacob (Contest Chair), TM Eranga .W, TM Rajesh Nair, TM Belinda Yare, TM Clarivic Vistal and TM Williams Antony (President)
Humorous Speech Contest (From left) : TM Williams Antony (President), Raghavan, DTM( Chief Judge), TM Nilesh Oturkar, TM Eranga. W,
TM Shaikha Al Nassr, TM Belal Khan, TM CIpriano Collado and TM Thomas Joseph ( Contest Chair)
Table Topics Contest (From left) : TM Williams Antony (President), TM Sanjay Rao (Contest Chair), TM Rukhsana Khan, TM Senthil Kumar,
TM Nevine Kamel, TM Fathima Sajitha, TM Samanthi Gamage and Raghavan, DTM ( Chief Judge)
Evaluation Contest (From left) : TM Thomas Joseph( VP Education), TM Saad Goshen, TM Belinda Yare, TM Samanthi Gamage (Contest
Chair), TM Nevine Kamel, TM Jais Thomas, TM Biju Mathew and TM Williams Antony (President)
GALLERY
TOASTED TIDINGS 10
This group photo was taken after the International and Evaluation Contest on 16th Feb 2014. Division E Governor Saquib Raza Khan,
Area 18 Governor TM Juttas Paul, Assistant Division E Governor for Education and Training TM Nasimudheen Hameed, and Assistant
Division E Governor TM Shyam Sundar (seated: center) were the dignitaries present to grace the occasion.
This group photo was taken after the Humorous and Table Topics Contest on 19th January 2014. Assistant Division E Governor for
Education and Training, TM Nasimudheen Hameed, was present to grace the occasion.
Expectations
TOASTED TIDINGS 11
“Hissa,
What are you doing?
Why are you wasting your time by doing volunteer
work?
Life is money! Do something in your life to gain
money!”
This is what my family, friends and people around
me kept telling me 4 year ago when I was at uni-
versity.
But for me volunteering means three things:
Doing something from my heart .
Putting a smile on someone’s face.
To do good things without expecting anything
in return.
My journey as a volunteer started when I was at
University. I attended a workshop on self-
management. The coach was speaking about or-
ganizing your time and setting priorities in life; he asked all the
attendees to write their goals.
Everyone started writing their goal except me; I didn’t know
what to write, I had no goals.
So, I decided to change my life, to find myself and write my
goals.
I started volunteering at different centers and on different occa-
sions. Kemm Club, Hemem Club, Qatar Career Fair and Injaz
Qatar are some of the places that I spent my time and energy.
Volunteering with the Sand com-
mittee was one of the best expe-
riences.
We donated food and clothes to
poor people before Eid festival.
We donated I remember one
Ramadan. It was 50 degrees and
scorching sun rays. I handed an
old, wrinkled lady a package of
rice, sugar and dates. She kept
staring at me. She smiled at me
and said “Thank you, you are so
generous, God bless you, I will
keep praying for you”
I really have never felt such joy
from any job I have ever done.
Volunteering helped me to set
new goals.
I worked hard and focused on my role at Doha Youth
Center conference.
I accepted the chief editor position of a youth magazine
to improve myself in media field. I discovered myself.
I love conducting workshops and lectures to share in-
formation, knowledge and experience.
Now I have the answers for what my family and
friends told me. My life has changed for the better. I
have friends who support me. I have discovered myself
and my passion. I have joined the best Toastmasters
club in Qatar and I have expanded my horizons.
I was awarded a volunteer award from Social Develop-
ment Center. Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad Al-
Thani the the daughter of His Highness – The Father
Emir gave my award at the ceremony at QNCC. My
family has started to see the difference that volunteer-
ing has made in me. Now, they are no more negative
but very proud of me.
“I was awarded a
volunteer award
from Social
Development
Center. Sheikha
Al-Mayassa bint
Hamad Al-Thani
the daughter of
His highness –
The Father Emir,
gave my award at
the ceremony at
QNCC.”
Success story of Hissa By TM Hissa Al Nassr
TM Hissa Al Nassr works for RAS GAS. She is a Qatari
National. She is very dedicated and sincere when it comes
to taking up any roles or doing her project speeches.
How it all began for Nevine
Insight
By TM Nevine Kamel, CC,CL
Four years ago, I was attending a workshop in KSA when the word “Toastmasters International” entered my world for the first time
ever. My mentor recommended it to me and highlighted the importance of public speaking and how he himself benefited a lot from
it. As soon as I returned home on that day, I registered for my first meeting in one of the prominent clubs in Jeddah, KSA. My journey so
far has been an exciting one, it has positively changed both my personal life and career. Toastmasters has developed my self-confidence,
my communication with people around me, and my leadership skills. Now I can think on my feet and speak impromptu about any topic I
come across.
When I landed in Qatar, my top priority was to join a prominent club, and that I did after finding out that Qatar Toastmasters Club is one
of the oldest and most successful clubs in Doha. In that club, I saw in action the seniors of my club setting examples of dedication, com-
mitment and excellence. As a member of that big family, my understanding of diversity, inclusion, and community service came into
action, I learnt that a toastmaster has to give back to the community
in terms of supporting younger generations and mentoring new
members to help each other grow and make the world a better place
by fostering communication and mutual understanding.
After four years of awards and trophies from Toastmasters Interna-
tional, I have to thank each and every one who supported me and
gave my voice the chance as an “EVE” to reach the world. And
above all, thanks Toastmasters for being in my life.
Words of wisdom to all women
Superpower
By TM Sarita Jacob, CC
The phrase ‘Woman Power’ brings a lot of vim and vigour to me.
The female members of Qatar Toastmasters have a special strength – the strength of being a woman. Every woman is born with a natural
power. The power to lead! This power is within us all our lives. We have this light shining in our hearts all the time.
What will you do about this power you possess? Are you going to bury it, or will you choose to put it into action?
“If you want to see what eagles see, you must be willing to do what eagles do” - Gail M. Hayes
In order to live an empowered life every day, let’s remind ourselves about our inner strength, let’s compete with our own potential, let’s
challenge our previous efforts, let’s all be a positively positive force in Toastmasters, in our families, in the workplace and everywhere
giving true meaning to the multifaceted ‘Woman Power’.
We should not choose to settle for less than our best. Let’s move
forward, come on! Let the light within us shine brilliantly.
TOASTED TIDINGS 12
TM Nevine Kamel, CC, CL is a champion speaker from Qatar Toastmasters . In the past she has represented Qatar Toastmasters at the Division Level in International and Evaluation Contests. She is an experienced HR Consultant with 15 years experience in talent management & development.
TM Sarita Jacob, CC works as the Group HR Manager at MAS Holding, Qatar. She completed her Competent Communica-tor at an outstanding speed and is al-ready pursuing her advance level speech-es.
NEWS
“MARKET YOUR CLUB” DONE RIGHT Qatar TV's report about Qatar Toastmasters Club. It
was recorded on 19/1/2014 during the club humor-
ous and the table topics contests held in Radisson
Blu Doha. This video was run on 27/1/2014 as part
of a program called "Noun Al-Newsa" [A program
hosted by females] and this episode was talking
about the importance of self-confidence and how to
build it, and toastmasters was one of the tools men-
tioned to develop that particular trait. The video
gave a glimpse of what was happening on that day
with special appearance of several members of the
club.
Click to view the video
TOASTED TIDINGS 13
QATAR TOASTMASTERS FACEBOOK PAGE REACHES 200+ LIKES
QATAR TOASTMASTERS FACEBOOK GROUP REACHES 486 MEMBERSHIP
LIKE US
JOIN US
A Brit abroad
TOASTED TIDINGS 14
Before coming to Qatar in April 2013, I had three months left to
complete my term as Area Governor, having been Assistant Area
Governor for two years as well as Club President for two years
and VPE for two years, and a founding member and VPE for a
new corporate club for a year and a half. I liked to keep busy. I
had researched TM in Qatar and was amazed to see so many
clubs in such a small area. I read the websites and newsletters of
various clubs (there were so many), looked at the pictures and
perused the articles. I was excited to see my hobby
and passion was active and incredibly busy in what
was going to be my new home.
I visited a few clubs in my first couple of months
here. My husband and I quickly realised that traffic
was a nightmare and so I wanted to join a club that
would be easy to get to, where I could I feel valued
and my skills and experience would be of use to
people. All the clubs I visited treated me exception-
ally well and my soon to be DTM status was
acknowledged. If funds would have allowed me to
join them all, I would have. It was a tough decision
which club to join, but eventually I made my
choice.
In District 71 (which covers the UK and the whole
of Ireland), there are over 250 clubs sharing be-
tween them nearly 8,000 members. My home club
of Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire, was the longest
running club in District 71 having chartered in
1956.
A small club with just over twenty members, we
would meet in the Stoke Mandeville Sports Stadi-
um; this was also home to the birth of the Paralym-
pics many years ago.
It has been very interesting for me to visit clubs in different plac-
es and see how clubs carry out meetings. For example, at a club
meeting in Ireland, members would stand by their chairs to re-
spond to table topics, it was timed and any member could inter-
ject and carry on with the topic. Every member would also write
a short speech evaluation for each speaker, so at the end of the
evening, a speaker would go home clutching twenty or so evalua-
tions of their speech. In District 71 nearly clubs evaluate the
table topics session, which doesn’t happen here in Qatar. Some
table topics sessions here have had 7-8 speakers (which would
make for a very long evaluation session!). Another difference
here is introductions. Initially I thought this was too time con-
suming and a bit too formal, but it was pointed out to me, that
it’s an excellent way of networking, which is incredibly useful in
a city of strangers. And wow, everything in Qatar is photo-
graphed! There are some very keen photographers at all the
meetings I’ve attended.
My initial observation that most TM clubs here are heavily popu-
lated by men proved to be accurate, which is not surprising given the
ratio of men to women in the population of Qatar as a whole. One
could make the assumption that the presence and activities of women
in these clubs would reflect the ratio. But not so! The women I have
met at various clubs and events stand as giants. They are strong, in-
telligent, eloquent and determined. They see themselves as equal and
contribute amazing talents to their clubs and TM in general.
It was an amazing experience to see and I am glad my initial misgiv-
ings were cut short. In District 71 the ratio of men to
women is roughly equal, but strangely when it comes to
competing, I would say around 70% of the contestants
are male. They hold the annual contests in the autumn
and spring; Humorous and Table Topics in September to
November and International and Evaluation in February
to May. Each set concluding at a biannual conference. I
attended four of these conferences before leaving the
UK and attended one as a Table Topics Contest finalist.
Each conference would have a theme, a fancy dress par-
ty, a gala dinner and dance, workshops, activities and
breakfast Excom meetings. Between three and five hun-
dred people would attend, It was exhilarating yet ex-
hausting.
Yes, I do miss my old District, I made some fabulous
friends through TM and I still support my old club with
their IT needs (they use an online system for meetings
organisation and tracking and recording members
achievements; it reduces the work for the VPE by 50%).
However, I am glad and very grateful for such a strong
TM presence here in Qatar. Again I have met some
amazing people, inspiring leaders and speakers and in-
valuable experience of speaking to and working with all
the different cultures, backgrounds and live experiences.
“My initial
observation
that most TM
clubs here are
heavily
populated by
men proved to
be accurate,
which is not
surprising
given the ratio
of men to
women in the
population of
Qatar as a
whole.”
Title says it all….. By Belinda Yare, DTM
Belinda Yare, DTM is a skilled Coach,
Trainer and Award winning Public
Speaker who gets the job done and
engages with people. Her passion
and enthusiasm was conta-
gious from the start.
Why You Should Care About the Distinguished Club Program
A must read for any toastmaster... By Joe McCleskey
If you’ve been a member for more than a few months, chances
are you’ve heard of the Distinguished Club Program, or DCP.
You may also know that each year, clubs that perform well in the
DCP are recognized for their efforts and can proudly display a
Distinguished, Select Distinguished or President’s Distinguished
ribbon on their club banner. But what’s in it for you, the individ-
ual member?
Here’s why focusing on your club’s performance in the DCP
should matter to every Toastmasters member:
• The DCP promotes club quality. Clubs that perform well in the
DCP provide a higher-quality club experience for all of its mem-
bers. Each aspect of the DCP, from membership to education
awards to club officer training, is designed to enhance and rein-
force the enjoyment and supportive atmosphere for each member,
every time the club meets.
• The DCP ensures productive meetings. Focusing on the educa-
tional goals of the DCP will keep members moving through the
education program. When people earn communication and lead-
ership awards, they gain much more than just a certificate or
points toward the DCP; they gain the satisfaction and confidence
that comes from completing a goal. They also provide an inspira-
tional example for other club members, who can see the transfor-
mation that has occurred as a direct result of Toastmasters train-
ing. Other aspects of the DCP help keep meetings productive,
too. Keeping club membership at or above 20, for example, will
fill club meeting roles and maintain the energy level needed for a
successful meeting.
• The DCP provides structure and guidance. Clubs that perform
well in the DCP always know who should be doing what and
when they should be doing it. The club officer training require-
ments of the DCP, for example, help to ensure that club business
is conducted fairly, efficiently and in accordance with Toastmas-
ters policy. Similarly, the educational goals of the DCP provide
direction and incentive for all members to achieve individually as
well as collectively.
• The DCP increases the enthusiasm of the club. The goal is not for
clubs to compete against one another; it’s for all clubs to strive to
achieve the same standards of excellence. Nonetheless, striving
for achievement in the DCP is a way to engage the spirit of
friendly competition that can help motivate club members to per-
form their duties with gusto.
So remember: When you work hard to help your club achieve in
the DCP, you’re not only helping your club – you’re helping
yourself as well.
Joe McCleskey
is the Manager of Educational Development at Toastmasters
World Headquarters in Rancho Santa Margarita, California
(http://www.toastmasters.org/ToastmastersMagazine/)
TOASTED TIDINGS 15
DISTINGUISHED CLUB PROGRAM STATUS AS OF FEB 2014
The Ultimate Makeover
TOASTED TIDINGS 16
Last week I was sitting in the lobby of a 5-star hotel when an
attractive looking woman caught my attention. She was walking
towards me. I recognized her instantly. We had known each
other for many years through work, but we had not seen each
other for months. As she drew closer I stood up to say hello.
When she opened her mouth to reply all I could focus on was her
facial expression - or rather her lack of facial expression. She
had no worry lines. No laughter lines. No lines whatsoever. Her
face was void of expression. It was filled with botox instead.
It’s an increasingly common sight. More and more women – and
men – are undergoing all kinds of cosmetic procedures to “fix”
their flaws, “improve” themselves, and make themselves more
“attractive”. They may attract our attention but
attracting attention and attraction are not the same.
For a moment I felt uneasy in my own skin. I have
lines and I have flaws. I asked myself: am I as at-
tractive as her?
But then I told myself: Rukhsana, you can still turn
heads at any age!
I have Toastmasters to thank for that belief in my-
self. Being attractive is more than skin deep. I be-
lieve that Toastmasters is the ultimate makeover.
Let me tell you why.
First, being a Toastmaster helps boost your confi-
dence. I used to be very unsure of myself. I doubt-
ed my abilities and my worth. Many women – and
men – face the same problem.
Since joining Toastmasters my insecurity has slowly turned into
security. I am less fearful, and more poised. I have noticed a
huge rise in my self-confidence. Guess what, others have noticed
it too. Confidence is like the “X” factor, that je ne sais quoi.
Confidence makes you attractive.
Second, being a Toastmaster redefines you if you are willing to
work hard at it. The harder I have worked to shed the excess
weight of my fears through public speaking, the more I have re-
shaped myself. Each time I have lifted the weight of responsibil-
ity in a leadership role I have discovered muscles I never knew I
had. Strength of character makes you attractive.
Third, by practicing the tips from speech projects, you stop per-
forming and start acting naturally. Toastmasters has taught me
how to project my true personality. I feel like I can genuinely
connect with people. Now I can look you in the eye and hold an
engaging conversation, with many of you, a few of you or just
you. My body speaks too. Being yourself makes you attractive.
As Toastmasters, no matter what we look like, when we speak
people listen. We learn to listen. Our once straight faces start to
relax and smile more. Eventually we make others smile, and
even laugh. Laughter is anti-aging. A warm smile is the
best accessory you can wear. It takes years off your
face. A sense of humour and a positive attitude make
you doubly attractive.
Above all, as Toastmasters we learn to accept, respect
and appreciate one other for who we already are. There
is nothing “wrong” with us, and together we can work
on improving ourselves from the inside out, to become
the best that we can be. Fortunately there are no nee-
dles, no knives and there are also no shortcuts. It still
takes courage to change. Thank goodness the Toastmas-
ters treatment is enjoyable, effective and a lot safer than
surgery!
If you ask me, Toastmasters is more than just a program
to improve our communication and leadership skills. It
is the ultimate makeover. Anyone who wants to “fix” their flaws,
“improve” themselves, and make themselves more “attractive” does
not need to undergo painful procedures or spend lots of money, only
to get temporary results. There is a better way...
By all means speak to a cosmetic surgeon, but visit a Toastmasters
club first. It’s much more affordable, way more fun, and it delivers
permanent results that speak for themselves. I am convinced that
Toastmasters is the ultimate makeover- For women and for men.
Dear Toastmaster: You are beautiful inside and out. Look in the mir-
ror and you’ll see what I mean.
An interesting read... By TM Rukhsana Khan, CC,CL
“Being
attractive is
more than skin
deep. I believe
that
Toastmasters
is the ultimate
makeover. Let
me tell you
why”
BEFORE TOASTMASTERS AFTER TOASTMASTERS
JUT
JUST KIDDING
TM Rukhsana Khan, CC, CL is a well known lawyer in
Qatar. She works at the law office of Gebran Majdalany,
Qatar. Many new members look up to her for her contribu-
tions and achievements in the club. She is the past secretary
and immediate past VP Membership.
Attend Toastmasters and Stay Healthy
TOASTED TIDINGS 17
Medical science says that human body produces 4
types of happy hormones/neurotransmitters. And when our body is underproducing or not producing those hormones, medical practitioners prescribe external drugs to supplement those happy hormones. They are;
ENDORPHINS : These are strain, pain and fear mask-ing hormones or neuro -transmitters. When a mar-athon runner is competing Endorphins masks the pain creating a high to complete the run. That’s why runners feel the pain next day or after some hours of completing the run.
DOPAMINE: Dopamine controls the brain’s reward and pleasure centers. Dopamine enables us not only to see rewards, but to take action to move towards them. Such as when we complete the marathon.
SEROTONIN : You feel the surge of Serotonin when you receive applause for your achievements. The good thing is that the receiver and provider both feel the surge of Serotonin when applause takes place. Serotonin is a mood enhancing neurotrans-mitter/hormone.
OXYTOCIN : This hormone/neurotransmitter is re-sponsible for creating bond between friends, fam-ily and loved ones. You feel a surge of Oxytocin when you are among the loved one.
The happy hormones are very important for our bodily function and deficiency of these in our body is disas-trous.
DOPAMINE deficiency results in PARKINSON’S Disease.
SEROTONIN deficiency symptoms are Fatigue when you should feel rested and energized; Negative thoughts with no apparent cause; Mood swings and more.
ENDORPHINS deficiency causes depression, chronic
unexplained pain, and a low tolerance for pain.
OXYTOCIN deficiency causes generalized depres-sion and anxiety, social isolation, phobias, panic attacks, sleep difficulties, and other common stress related ailments.
So what has the above hor-mones to do with Toastmasters? Here is what happens in a Toastmasters meeting that impacts physiological changes in your body and it’s all towards your healthy well-being .
Let’s evaluate what happens when you visit your Toastmasters club?
You network and participate in the meeting. You men-tor, evaluate or general evaluate the meeting. And all the said activities help you to bond and bonding cre-ates a surge of OXYTOCIN.
When you attempt speaking roles – Project speech, Table Topics or Evaluation; there is a surge of fear and ex-citement and that’s the time body re-lease ENDORPHINS .
When you finish delivering your speech, evaluation or table topics that’s the time you feel the surge of DOPAMINE .
And when you receive applause and accolades for your performance that’s the time the body releas-es SEROTONIN .
Those two hours and 30 minutes you spend in a Toastmasters meeting are filled with a healthy dose of organically produced hormones.
Attend Toastmasters and stay healthy.
TM Vinod Mehra is a passionate
toastmaster. He is the managing
director at Neev Consultancy, Dubai.
He helps the business increase brand
visibility and close more profitable
sales.
http://www.toastmasterstribe.com/
Sure to intrigue you….. By TM Vinod Mehra
ON A LIGHTER NOTE
TOASTED TIDINGS 18
NEWS
Mrs. Ayesha Rahuman receiving the “Plaque of Appreciation” from the Immediate Past International Director George Thomas, DTM
“Mrs. Ayesha Rahuman’s name is reminded along
with Qatar Gavel Club, I will never forget the lady
who helped us to start it in the school that she
worked for”
Area 12 Governor TM Thayalan stated the above
lines of appreciation in his felicitation speech to
Mrs Rahuman who recently left Doha after her re-
tirement. QTM conducted the Youth Leadership
Programme 2 years ago at Stafford Sri Lankan
School and later initiated QGC to the students.
With Mrs Rahuman’s permission QTM was able to
expand QGC not only to students of Stafford but to
other students in Doha as well. She was a motivator
and an enthusiastic participant of the QGC meetings
held in school. She encouraged the Gavelliers to be
productive and the other students in Stafford to join
QGC. We believe that she is a true leader who in-
spired others.
We wish her all the best in her life and hope she will
continue her service to the younger generation.
QATAR TOASTMASTERS FELICITATES
MRS. AYESHA RAHUMAN
TOASTED TIDINGS 19
MESSAGE
Warm greetings to the members of
Qatar Toastmasters Club!!
Qatar Toastmasters Club is a long-standing organization that works towards enhancing public speaking skills of various
individuals and opening doors to adults from all walks of life. As a Principal, I feel that this is a tremendous service rendered
to society in general. I myself am an ardent enthusiast of public speaking and promote it in school as and when possible.
You are true leaders, guiding through exemplary effort and sheer passion. The ability to mesmerize audience with motiva-
tional speeches, sharing thoughts and obtaining invaluable experience in retrospect, is a wonderful feeling. It fills one with a
sense of achievement, pride and above all joy at having conquered one’s fears.
The service that you continue to render to the community in Qatar must be considered with utmost respect. You have under
your wing numerous achievements but your crowning glory is your undeterred dedication towards this one cause- enhancing
public speaking.
I wish to take this opportunity to acknowledge the work carried out by Qatar Toastmasters Club to promote public speaking
among youth by way of establishing the Qatar Gavels Club. The healthy number of aspiring young speakers who have
joined the club, from our school and several other schools in Qatar, is a marvelous sight to behold! I salute you for this yeo-
man service for the benefit of the future generation. I can say with joy that one of my dreams has been realized through this
club.
You have undoubtedly paved the way to leave behind your legacy; today you celebrate your success story that will be en-
graved in the annals of history in Qatar.
I wish Qatar Toastmasters Club the very best of luck in all their future endeavors!
Sincerely,
Ayesha Rahuman Former Principal Stafford Sri Lankan School Doha, Qatar
Adieu to one of our well wishers
TOASTED TIDINGS 20
UPCOMING EVENTS
EVENT DATE
QATAR TOASTMASTERS MEETING NO. 366 MARCH 2 2014
QATAR TOASTMASTERS MEETING NO. 367 MARCH 16 2014
AREA 18 ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2014 APRIL 4 2014
QATAR TOASTMASTERS MEETING NO. 368 APRIL 6 2014
QATAR TOASTMASTERS MEETING NO. 369 APRIL 20 2014
TOASTMASTERS ANNUAL CONFERENCE QATAR 2014 APRIL 25 & 26 2014
QATAR TOASTMASTERS MEETING NO. 370 MAY 4 2014
DISTRICT TOASTMASTERS ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2014
(OMAN)
MAY 15,16 & 17 2014
QATAR TOASTMASTERS MEETING NO. 371 MAY 18 2014
QATAR TOASTMASTERS MEETING NO. 372 JUNE 1 2014
QATAR TOASTMASTERS MEETING NO. 373 JUNE 15 2014
TOASTED TIDINGS 21
TACQ 2014 stands for Toastmasters Annual Conference Qatar 2014 which will be held on 25th
April 2014 at Al Dostur Hall, Dukhan and 26th April 2014 at Grand Hyatt Doha. It is the highest
level of speech contest in a Division. It will showcase some of the best speakers in Humorous
Speech, Table Topics, Evaluation and International Speech categories who went through club and
area level contests. It is not just another speech contest but a celebration of the hard work and dedi-
cation a toastmaster puts in through the year. It showcases cultural shows and entertaining sessions
to keep the audience at the edge of their seats from start to the end. (click here to register)
Muscat, the capital city of Oman welcomes you to DTAC 2014. The city of colorful minarets in the
backdrop of brown pleated Al Hijar mountains is described as “Arabia’s jewel”. With its largely un-
touched coastline, mountains, deserts, forts, palaces and the old walled city Oman is bundle of joy for
any tourist.
We assure you that the kitty of Annual District Toastmasters Conference 2014 will be inspiring, warm,
fresh & fabulous. The unconditional support of our District leaders has fueled our efforts to set the best
stage for all the 700 delegates whom we expect for this mega event. The three day conference, which is
scheduled from May 15th to 17th will be held at the pride of Muscat – Al Bustan Palace – a per-
fect blend of old & new.
Festival of knowledge of District 20 Toastmasters has got all the ingredients to become one of the great-
est Annual conferences of all time. We urge every one of you to register yourself for this special
event. Share your knowledge& get enlightened by the competent Roleplayers. Learn invaluable new
lessons through highly rewarding educational sessions. Increase your network & sharpen your communi-
cation skill. Let’s come together because Together We Excel. (click here to register)
VISION
“Toastmasters International empowers people to achieve their full potential and realize their dreams.
Through our member clubs, people throughout the world can improve their communication and leader-
ship skills, and find the courage to change.”
MISSION
“Toastmasters International is the leading movement devoted to making effective oral communication a
worldwide reality.
Through its member clubs, Toastmasters International helps men and women learn the arts of
speaking, listening and thinking - vital skills that promote self actualization, enhance leadership
potential, foster human understanding and contribute to the betterment of mankind.
It is basic to this mission that Toastmasters International continually expand its worldwide network of
clubs thereby offering ever-greater numbers of people the opportunity to benefit from its programs.”
REFERRALS
Toastmasters International Website : http://www.toastmasters.org
Internet for pictures
DISCLAIMER
This magazine is published for internal circulation among the members of Qatar Toastmasters Club, to
promote the ideas and goals of Toastmasters International. Editor does not take the responsibility for the
authenticity / opinion of the articles / authors, published. Toastmasters International and its logos are
trademarks registered in the USA, Canada and many other countries.
GO GREEN
To save the trees and to leave planet earth with all its flora and fauna to our future generations, this
magazine is circulated to members only electronically. Think before you print this.
FEEDBACK
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Please remember to send your feedback, comments, suggestions etc. to [email protected] or
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