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Past meetings Toastmasters International

When aviators meet gruffalos, nice girls and economic history – 3rd March

One of the most interesting about Toastmasters is that subjects are up for members to choose, allowing a unique insights into the personality of our members. Our last meeting was no different! Toastmastering us was the glamorous Jane Houghton, assisted by timekeeper Magda, first time grammarian Rosie (well done Rosie!) and Vote Counter Prateek.

Another great meeting in our lovely room!
Another great meeting in progress!

Starting off a diverse series of speech that night was Ross with “Aiming High” on the extraordinary life of aviator Douglas Bader. Who in spite of losing both legs in an airplane accident, went back up to the skies to fight for the RAF in WW2! Our VP Membership Terry followed with “A mouse took a stroll through the deep dark wood”. Using the power of the AIDA sales techniques as a backdrop, we embarked on a fairy tale journey through a deep dark forest alongside a cunning mouse beating off monsters including gruffaloes with its sharp tongue and quick wit. Club President Florian guided us through a fact-finding report on the reasons for British industrial decline. Afterwards answering a flurry of questions from the audience on why it matters. Sergey closed off a very diverse evening of speeches with “What’s a nice girl like you doing in a place like this” from the Interpersonal Communication manual.

Storyteller and seller extraordinaire Terry!
Storyteller and seller extraordinaire Terry!

Evaluations were taken up by Sergey, Fahad, Daniela and Andy. Covering points such as the importance of eye contact and of vocal variety to build a strong connection with the audience.

Guest introduction by Sergeant at Arms Edwin!
Guest introduction by Sergeant at Arms Edwin!

Movies were the theme of a very energising table topics session chaired by Secretary Ayokunle and evaluated by VP PR Marina. The entire evening was finally evaluated by Warren Sheng.