In conversation with S K Brillian

Interview with S K Brillian, DTM

(Division D Governor, District 41)

ATM - How did you join Toastmasters and what appealed to you then?

SKB - Believe it or not, my wife encouraged me to join toastmasters. I used to be associated with the world’s best youth organisation Retract for a long time. After moving away, I was spending more time lazing and watching television. My wife Vaishali's colleague Arvind Nair used to brief her about Toastmasters, that's when she realized I could be put to use for productive work ;). My first meeting I won the Table Topics, the entire format and way people were made comfortable to speak made me come back and signup as a member.

ATM - After associating with Toastmasters for many years, you are so passionate about the movement, which is unbelievable. What is motivating you at this juncture?

SKB - The truth is learning never ends, I have learnt that even someone who is beginning the journey can offer so many insights into learning. The fact that we have members from all walks of life, makes every interaction interesting and engaging. The motivator for me at this point of time is the fact that I am able to give back to the movement even as I learn.

ATM - Which is the most memorable moment of your journey in Toastmasters?

SKB - My Project 1 - which was witnessed by my wife on Valentines Day. It is an interesting story, the day we were to have our meeting, we realized that our regular venue was demolished. As a stop gap arrangement the meeting was moved to an open air amphitheater. It was a true experience of "Public Speaking", I can never forget that day.

ATM - What is the most important lesson you learnt at Toastmasters as a leader?

SKB - A leader must be open to let go, "if you don't let go, you will never grow". empowerment - the essential tools for every leader to succeed. Trust, delegation and

ATM - You have witnessed the journey of Amdavad Toastmasters since its chartering. What it has done well and what could have been done better?

SKB - Amdavad toastmasters took a while to come into the family of Division D. I have seen the club grow leaps and bounds. Amdavad club has a special place in my Toastmasters Journey as my DTM completion was achieved on July 1, 2012 after completing the module at the club meeting. The club should motivate members to attend Area, Division & District conferences. This would give members a new perspective on leadership and communication.

As told to ATM