Rainbow by District 20 Toastmasters

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

06 Regional 11 Advisor

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Region 11 Advisor, Elizabeth Nostedt talks about her experience when she visited District 20.

District 20 Governor’s Message District 20 Governor, Vicky Ferrer, DTM takes us on a short and an exciting journey which ends in gratitude.

08 10

LGET’s MESSAGE

DISTRICT PRO’s message

District 20 LGET, Subha Anupindi inspires us as she talks about the importance of mentoring at any level.

District 20 PRO, Kirubanandan talks about how the benefits of Toastmasters can be spread to 12 million people.

13 DISTRict excom

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14 action speaks louder A short summary of District 20’s performance

BORN TO SHINE

DISTRict 65 Governor’s message

Born to shine star of District 20, Shurooq AlBanna shares her experience in an interview with Saleh AlKhamyasi.

Read how District 65 Governor, Kate Olsen, DTM transcend the limitations of a traumatic brain injury.

18 INSPIRING MOHAMMED

PAGE 23

THE GRANDEST SPECTACLE

PAGE 24

BREEZE OF DTAC

PAGE 28

30 DISTRict 20 got talent 7 Extraordinary people from 7 Countries with 7 Extraordinary stories

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DIVISION GOVERNORs Know who are the Division Governors of District 20

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

REGION 11

20 79 20

WATC

41 Celebrating Yen’s Voice

DTM Vicky inspires us to bring about a positive change20 in our families while DISTRICT empowering our women for BAHRAIN better future. JORDAN KUWAIT LEBANON

Read about our present Toastmasters International President, George Yen, DTM injecting us with a nourishing viewpoint every month.

44 46 FLYING WITH WINGS OF FIRE Dr. Rajan, DTM gives us a view of the fertile minds and versatile imagination of the young talented contestants from 12 Gavel Clubs in Oman.

PUTtING fire in your desire Rajesh Daga, DTM narrates a story of a 18 year old intelligent girl who beats all odds to be what she aims for with the fire in her desire.

48 4

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47 TOUR OF TOASTMASTERS HEADQUARTERS

OMAN QATAR U.A.E

50 a PUFF OF POETRY

CONNECTING the DOTS

from LAUGHTER TO SUCCESS ever after

Know about the motivation and beliefs of our leaders who moved us all in District 20 towards growth, success and empowerment

51 56 FOUR TO SCORE Beginning with the end in mind, editor-in-chief briefs about how this magazine was designed to be thought provoking, enlightening, and certainly an enriching experience.

growing arabic toastmasters community The Arabic Toastmasters Community is growing at an exponential rate!

DISTRICT MISSSION We build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

REGION 11 ADVISOR MESSAGE When I visited District 20 back on November, I met wonderful groups of Toastmasters in Lebanon and in Amman. (Only sorry that I could not visit more of the District) What I saw in the District was teamwork, enthusiasm and dedication. The team in Lebanon had put together a Corporate Summit â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the first one in Lebanon. What a fabulous job they did. They created an interest in Toastmasters for the companies that attended AND even more important, the Toastmasters who attended were re-energized. When these Toastmasters were speaking to guests, and other Toastmasters, they showed their enthusiasm for the Brand! And that is really what sells and convinces others to come out to Toastmasters! Well done to the Toastmasters in Lebanon! It was so enjoyable to meet with the Area Governors and Division Governors during the day in an informal atmosphere. We even got the chance to brainstorm new ideas for building and supporting clubs. I sincerely hope that some of the ideas were acted upon! (What can you tell me about it?) The visit to Amman was also very special! Again the team had put together

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a Corporate Summit, and even had

Thanks also to very special Toastmasters

Royal Patronage. I was able to meet

there, I could do some sightseeing, and

and converse with Princess Magda, a

mix it with some strategic planning with

wonderful lady originally from Sweden.

the District team. They even arranged

She graced the presence of the Summit,

that I could visit with a long-standing

and even joked with the few of the

Toastmaster who was not able to leave

companies to add a special touch. Again

her home! What a sharp lady! Even there

at this summit, the companies were

we were able to strategize for a new

enthusiastic to the message they heard.

Toastmasters club!

I felt especially privileged to share a message with the group.

Region 11 Advisor

Elizabeth Nostedt

Mid-February report for District 20

“District 20 is well on its way to reach President’s Distinguished Status! Keep up the good work!”

I would like to thank all the Toastmasters

President’s Distinguished Status! Keep up

in Lebanon and Jordan for their kind

the good work!

hospitality. I would like to come back and meet you all again, and hopefully see more of your beautiful counties! (and

All the best,

meet even more Toastmasters!)

Elizabeth Nostedt Region 11 Advisor

Of course, my article would not be

(Region 11 covers the Districts from

complete without asking: How is your club

Norway in the north, through the UK and

doing? What can you do to help your club

Europe, the middle east, West Africa and

reach Distinguished status? What guests

South Africa).

“Leaders aren’t born they are made. And they are made just like anything else, through hard work. And that’s the price we’ll have to pay to achieve that goal, or any goal.”

could you take along to a Toastmasters meeting? With just 4 months left to the end of this term, what can you do for your club or Area?

By Vince Lombardi

District 20 is well on its way to reach RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

DISTRICT GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE Welcome to our very own District 20 Magazine! It is my pleasure to stay connected with all the leaders and members of District 20. I am privileged because we have an extraordinary membership of dedicated and committed Toastmasters! We all had joined this wonderful movement for a reason to improve our communication and leadership skills. After sometime we realize that we gain something beyond that. We meet friends who have the same goals as we do and they become our extended family! We learn how to be mentors in an unselfish way. We are able to arrange our schedules in a balanced way through proper time management. We discover that we are not alone in this quest for knowledge. There are members from other Districts who believe in the power of Toastmasters- just like us! Our District is unique as we are one big happy family comprising of seven countries: Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, and the UAE. I was privileged to attend the Toastmasters International convention in Cincinnati, Ohio from August 21, to 24, 2013. I met passionate Toastmasters from

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different parts of the world —from Africa,

personal growth”. It is up to the leaders

to Mexico and from Alaska to China

and members to help and mentor new

among many other countries. I realized

Toastmasters in their quest for self-

that no matter where the Toastmasters

development.

came from-we are all determined to abide and spread the club mission of

District 20 was a star in Cincinnati! Our

Toastmasters. “We provide a supportive

Toastmasters International President Elect

and positive learning experience in which

for the year 2013-2014 is none other than

members are empowered to develop

Mohammed Murad, DTM, our dear Past

communication and leadership skills,

District Governor Uma Radhakrishnan

resulting in greater selfconfidence and

received the Presidential Citation Award,

Enjoy, Learn & Explore by

Vicky Ferrer Mustafa

DTM, MDC, CIPT

“You may have a title, but are you going to produce positive results? Would you be able give benefits to the people you are leading? You should not be after the glory of the title, rather you should plan, take action and make sure that whatever you visualize is the same vision that the members fully believe in.”

and of course TM Shurooq Al Banna won

and skills through Toastmasters and the

DTM Sunil Kottarathil, a role model who

the third prize in the World Championship

best we can do is share it with our loved

excels in any task that he undertakes

of Toastmasters! Not to forget that District

ones and friends. I believe that whoever

and TM Natalia Desai whose write ups

20 received the President’s Distinguished

experiences the magic of Toastmasters

always elicited accolades from our

Award—we ranked number 8 in the world!

he or she will never look back and

fellow Toastmasters. Thank you to the

instead would say” I wish I knew about

contributors. Without whom we could

On February 7, I was privileged to visit

Toastmasters before.” I felt that way. I

not have completed our task. Enjoy,

Toastmasters International Headquarters

thought to myself, “I wish I had joined

learn, explore by reading our magazine

at Santa Margarita California. I have

Toastmasters a long time back”.

Rainbow and feel the magnificent impact

met with all the staff including our CEO

a team can bring about!

Daniel Rex who gave me the tour to the

I would like to thank the powerful team

premises. I was awed when I walked into

members who created this extraordinary

the room dedicated to Dr Ralph Smedley

magazine. I thank the Editor-in-Chief

and saw all the memorabilia. I always

TM Saleh Al Khamyasi, the designer of

believe that whatever we receive we

the cover and contributor Social Media

ought to give back. We gain knowledge

Master TM Noor Mohammad, our dear RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

lieutenant Governor education & Training MESSAGE Dear Toastmasters, Greetings! “January is the month of Mentoring. Do you have a mentor? Having a mentor can help you think through an idea, suggest different solutions and provide the experience you might be missing.” This was the post on TI Official Facebook page. Reading the post took me down the memory lane. I remember distinctly the first time I met TM Mark Brown, the World Champion of Public Speaking for the year 1995, in Dubai during GTAC 2003, wherein he was the Keynote Speaker. During my conversation with him I asked him about mentoring. He simply replied “Subha mentoring is extremely important. Even today I get mentored. I had sent my keynote address at this GTAC to my mentor TM David Brooks, World Champion of Public Speaking for the year 1990,”. That is when I understood the importance of a mentor irrespective of whether you are a champion at Division, District or International level, you still need a mentor, who can provide you with a perspective from a different

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

angle for your improvement. You develop

skills to a good extent can still have a

and hone in new skills and abilities. The

mentor. Consequently, you can also take

mentor is a guide and a resource for your

up the role of a MENTOR for new budding

growth. Personally I myself had chosen

Toastmasters in guiding them, so that

few mentors, who have been instrumental their experience in your club is beneficial in my developing into the leader that I am

and more enjoyable. Mentoring can help

today.

the mentee feel more confident and selfsupported. Mentees can also develop a

You as an accomplished speaker or

clearer sense of what they want in their

leader, who has been with Toastmasters

careers and their personal lives as well

for a long time, and have developed your

as what they want to accomplish through

Subha Anupindi LGET, District 20

I understood the importance of a mentor irrespective of whether you are a champion at Division, District or International level, you still need a mentor, who can provide you with a perspective from a different angle for your improvement.

Toastmasters. They will develop greater

motivate and inspire the mentee and

seeing your mentee grow in all respects.

self-awareness and see the world, and

with perseverance push the mentee to

Second it develops your own personality,

themselves, as other successful persons

try out the avenues where he is afraid to

behavior, self confidence as in this

do!

venture but has the potential. You should

process of mentoring you too would learn

be a good listener. Provide accurate and

a lot, which would be beneficial for you.

My appeal to you senior Toastmasters,

objective suggestions that adds value

To summarize, find a good mentor for

who have completed their DTMs or have

which summarizes what you’ve heard,

yourselves and also take on a mentee

already held key leadership positions in

but also interpret things for the mentee

and help guide others with knowledge

our fraternity, is to take up mentoring of

to understand how he can improve, be it

that you’ve found useful through your

budding Toastmasters eager to follow

speech or behavior. This in turn brings in

Toastmasters experience.

in your footsteps. You may ask me,

more confidence in the mentee. Ask the

what you need to be a good mentor.

right questions, which would trigger the

Here I end this note wishing you all

For starters, you need the interest and

mentee’s thinking.

happy mentoring.

desire in developing others. You should be able to spare or devote some of

You may ask me “What is in it for

your time for your mentee. You should

me?”. Firstly immense satisfactions RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

DISTRICT PRO MESSAGE How many of your contacts, whether it be your friends, colleagues, neighbors, relations or your family members know about Toastmasters? I’m guessing a few. How many out of them have actually attended a Toastmasters’ meeting? The benefits we derive from Toastmasters are immense. We apply the skills we gain from Toastmasters on a daily basis. Whether it be an impromptu conversation with your superiors, or a corporate presentation or let it be a simple talk between you and your partner. Our effective communication and leadership skills come to our aid.

V.Kirubanandan, ACS,ALB District 20 PRO, 2013-2014, Toastmasters International

The fastest and the best way to grow effectively is by sharing. Sharing helps us find the loopholes in our knowledge. Sharing not only helps others but also gives us internal satisfaction. convincing it would be for others to see

influence their lives, and in turn enriching

So, why don’t we share what we derive

for themselves, the transformation you

our lives.

from Toastmasters?

have gone through. Toastmasters is all about learning by doing. Let’s do what we No matter what others say you are

District 20 comprises of 7 countries;

can do today, today. Let’s give more to

capable of, you are only limited by what

Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman,

benefit more. Let’s make the journey of

you think. If you can visualize it, you can

Qatar and U.A.E. These countries have

Toastmasters to be a great experience.

be it.

and growing. We have a tremendous

The social media tools like Facebook,

Share and grow!

opportunity to share and grow.

Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn

a cumulative population of 12 million

and Google+ has given us the The more you demonstrate how you have

tremendous power to reach those whom

benefited from Toastmasters, the more

we cannot physically meet. However, using these tools, we can positively

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Take charge!

District ExCom

Victoria M. Ferrer

Alex Ginete

Subha Anupindi

District Governor

IPDG

LGET

Let us all join hands and

Besides various district officer

Lets look at success as a team

together and we shall aim for

positions held, he has served

with determination, dedication

District 20’s success - to build

as District Treasurer, Area

& a burning desire to succeed.

new clubs and support all clubs

Governor, Division Governor

Lets be a trained team to see

in achieving excellence while

and Lt. Governor Marketing.

that individual goals are met;

empowering every toastmaster

His marching order: “LET’s DO

Club, Area, Division & District

during our pursuit.

TODAY’s WORK TODAY!”

goals are met.

Yasser Suleiman

Kiruba V

Rania Abul-Rub

Tarek Liddawi

LGM

PRO

Secretary

Treasurer

As our district spreads over seven countries, this geographical expansion presents possibilities and a mixed opportunities to grow, our strategy would be focused on intentional growth.

By collaborative work starting from our members up to the clubs then Areas and the Divisions, by working together on all levels utilizing all tools out there we can spread the word and easily double and triple our membership.

No matter what role you take, just enjoy the journey being a Toastmaster, spread the word and pass the knowledge and experience around. It is a unique and rewarding experience

Talent wins games but teamwork wins championship. Let’s make use of the diversity of our district to build on our successes.

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aCTION SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS District 20 Educational Awards

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DISTRICT 65 GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE My name is Kate Olsen and I am the current District 65 Governor. My membership in Toastmasters has given me so much. We all have a story and I was asked to share mine. I was literally at the top of my game and suddenly my world crashed all around me. My life was wonderful; I had a successful career as a Psychiatric Registered Nurse. July 2, 1999, my life drastically changed. I was brutally assaulted by one of my patients at work. My injuries were many, but the worst was a Traumatic Brain Injury. These are just words and don’t actually describe the problems or difficulties that you have with your everyday life. Imagine that you woke up this morning and you weren’t able to function like you did yesterday. You don’t remember details of what happened yesterday or last week. Reading the newspaper and then realizing that you didn’t comprehend a word. Imagine struggling to find your words and then you are unable to speak them. The frustration of not being able to state what is in your mind. People find it intolerable

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to listen as you stumble to complete a

I continued to improve (even though many

simple sentence. You feel isolated from

Doctors said I would never recover). In

the world, unable to communicate.

2003, I learned about Toastmasters, so I went to a meeting. The members were

I was able to find the right healer and by

very kind. They encouraged me to return.

2001, I started to speak. However, I was

I did and when I spoke for Table Topics,

unable to form a complete sentence. The

my speech problems were revealed.

thoughts in my mind were not the words

I was surprised that I was supported

that came out of my mouth. I had to learn

and encouraged to return. I joined

to read again.

Toastmasters September 3, 2003.

Kate Olsen, DTM Governor, District 65

Imagine struggling to find your words and then you are unable to speak them. The frustration of not being able to state what is in your mind. By completing each step of the Toastmasters Educational program, I have regained my ability to speak and improved my cognition.

Due to my short term memory problems,

hitting another milestone.

I was unable to give a speech without notes. My speech improved as time

By completing each step of the

went on. My Doctors were amazed that I

Toastmasters Educational program, I have

learned to speak complete sentences. It

regained my ability to speak and improved

was great to be supported and my ability

my cognition. I have earned four DTMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and

to communicate was improving. I was

can give speeches without notes. I never

so excited when I was appointed Area

dreamed that I would recover from the

Governor. My first DTM was earned using

nightmare of 7/2/99.

notes with my speeches. My life has changed in many ways. I am still From the beginning, I was determined that

able to help others improve their lives but

I was not going to be defined by my brain

now in a different way. I can truly say that

injury. I volunteered to help with District

Toastmasters gave me back my voice and

Conferences, Contests, and Committees.

my life!

Every year, my improvement was like RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

BORN TO SHINE Shurooq: The Pearl of District 20 Interview by Saleh Abdullah Alkhamyasi The Arabic name Shurooq means sunrise. It signifies optimism, hope and brightness. It reveals energy, activeness and passion to excel and unleash ones true potential. MTM Shurooq AlBanna, a member of Lagoon Toastmasters in Dubai Division J is a graduate of Genetics and Forensic Science from the University of London and carries a Masters in Strategic Marketing from the University of Wollongong in Dubai. Currently, she handles the marketing for the Noor Dubai Foundation, a charity focused on the prevention of blindness globally. In her free time, Shurooq is an avid supporter of charitable work in the UAE and is one of the 8 individuals who were appreciated by the ruler of Dubai in 2009 for their work in this noble cause. She also manages the annual successful charity ART exhibition and auction where all proceeds go to the prevention of blindness and its treatment in poor countries. She speaks Arabic, English and French fluently and GCSE level Spanish. She is crazy about books to an extent that she takes care of her book collection better than her jewelry. 18

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This passionate and rib tickling humorist

life and her conviction and enthusiasm

came to Toastmasters’ limelight when she

injected pulse and turned them to an

became the 1st place winner of DTAC

extraordinary moral values. The DTAC

2012 in Bahrain in the humorous contest

2013, first place winning speech was

and went home rejoicing her triumph.

a turning point in her life. It was her ticket to join the wagon of the elites as a

Her passion to speak and inspire did

contestant in the World Championship of

not fade away. In her impressive and

Public Speaking 2013 that took place in

captivating speech “Uno Momento” at

Cincinnati, Ohio last August.

DTAC 2013 she portrayed biographical sketches of ordinary moments in her

The magic of her exuberant performance

“Ecclectic is one adjective that describes me.”

shook her audience and made them

The District PRO team approached

reflect in search of their own moments.

this born to shine star and invited her

She shared with them, that she is daddy’s

to share her experience with her fellow

When I gave finding the pearl, my key

girl, fun to be around, rebellious at time,

toastmasters across the seven countries

message to the world was to believe that

humane at heart and above all a women

that makes the beautiful rainbow of

there is goodness in everyone and the

with a true mission.

district 20. She wholeheartedly welcomed

audience identified with the Arab woman

proceeded in the following lines:

the initiative and took it as a golden

giving that speech especially with the

Shurooq represented District 20 in the

opportunity to extend her gratitude

common misconceptions some had

Toastmasters Annual Convention 2013

and thanks for her fellow toastmasters’

of me.

and came out victoriously. She was

undeterred support and sincere wishes.

awarded the accolade of being the 2nd

I wish there was a way that I can

Runner up in the World Championship

Spot light, a segment of our district

personally thank every single toastmaster

of Public Speaking 2013 through her

innovative website takes pride to

in District 20 from Oman Bahrain UAE

mesmerizing and insightful speech

celebrate the triumph of the daughter of

Qatar Lebanon Jordan and Kuwait for

“Finding the Pearl”.

lagoon, the pearl of District 20, born to

their well wishes and undeterred support

shine Shurooq. Our conversation with her RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Being a toastmaster is a life-long

some embarrassing occasions where

As you have highlighted above, Mark

relationship which one can take at their

I froze and forgot my words in a public

Twain said Humor is mankind’s greatest

own pace.

event in front of VIPs and I decided I

blessing why is it so? And how do you

needed to do something about this.

align your humor to suit an audience

Never compare yourself to others, just

My feet lead me to the gate of Lagoon

from different cultures?

focus on yourself and become

Toastmasters through the persuasiveness

Humor has a mesmerizing impact in

of my friend and sister Wafa and ever

uplifting defeated spirits and inspiring

Where you a public speaker before

since my toastmasters family got wider

people to face the issue in hand in

joining Toastmasters kindly elaborate?

and wider a matter which filled my heart

sarcastic yet realistic manner.

Yes. As a child I had an opportunity to

with joy and ripple of laughter.

be a presenter on a children’s TV show

The Middle East is one culture and all

called Zuhoor AlGhad. I was 10 years old

You emerged as a champion in the

the different nationalities and religions

back then and until this day I remember

humorous contest in DTAC Bahrain

residing here have adopted a coherent

the first words I ut- tered on TV: It is

2011-2012, tell us about your experience

living where they share similar values,

Shurooq Albana, I am happy to meet

as a humorist?

morals and thinking. This is why it was

you and wish that a i will be up to your

Mark Twain described humor as human

easy for me to find a middle ground and

expectations. Besides, I used to MC in

kind best blessings. It is an attitude with

please the audience with my humor.

medical conferences since 2007 as part

which one tackles his or her challenges

of my job.

and comes out contended and victorious.

Tell us how do you pick the ideas of

After all, laughter is a true medicine. In

your speeches? And how do you go

When did you join Toastmasters and

my case my friends pinpointed at the

about preparing and rehearsing your

why?

need for me to try humorous speeches

speeches?

I was destined to delve in the door steps

and take my talent in this area to greater

I randomly choose my topics, I have no

of this reassuring heaven three years ago.

heights. They loved my sarcastic take on

distinct way of doing so. Occasionally I go

Resorting to Toastmaster was a remedy

things. Sure enough I walked the talk and

through my diary to find inspiration and

to come to terms with my impromptu

represented my division in DTAC 2012

incidences of substance. My speeches

speaking and develop the skills that will

Bahrain.

come out different simply because I

make me face any unexpected scenario

try to tackle the topics from a different

no matter where, who was there and how

It was a confidence-boosting experience. I

perspective, an Emarati female one.

difficult the case in hand is. I seriously

loved it. I believe I made all the women in

Once the draft is ready then practicing is

wanted to stop those nervous shakes,

District 20 proud when I beat the men in

the gate to perfection and at this stage

butterflies on stage. There were also

their own humorous game.

I really raise the bar and never become

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

An inspirational message from Shurooq AlBanna: Never compare yourself to others, just focus on yourself and become the best version of YOU. This is my life motto, I strive to become better than I was yesterday. soft on myself focusing that my emotions

It is an excellent observation TM

was hungry for more. Practice, conviction

come out raw every single time I deliver

Saleh. What you pointed out is simply

and enthusiasm about your message and

a speech. I set a goal of showcasing

my personal style. It worked for me in

how to package it for your audience will

myself in the best level possible. As I

addition to other factors but may not

always do wonders trust me.

dislike competing with others, I insist

work for anybody else. What many lack

on challenging myself, and competing

is their own personal style and I believe

Wow Shurooq is heading to the World

with my yesterday’s self and put the

speakers should invest their time and

Championship of Public Speaking

best effort. As Zig Ziglar, a renowned

effort in bringing out their unique qualities

August 2013 Cincinnati, Ohio, USA as a

motivational speaker said “Winning is not

and abilities instead of copying others.

representative of District 20 how did that

everything, but the effort to win is”.

This gives me the ability to speak from

feel? Tell us about your apprehensions,

the heart and provide the leverage of

fearful moments and what has ultimately

They say when the student is ready the

speaking with authority on the subject

motivated you to walk the Talk?

teacher will emerge in your case the role

and connect with my audience who find

I was very happy about winning but fearful

of a mentor and a coach made a great

themselves comparing & contrasting to

as I was carrying a huge responsibility.

difference do you agree with that? And

take home the desired outcomes.

Alhamdilla Allah blessed my final journey

how?

with two individuals: Wafa and Bader who

I believe that everything is written. The

Uno Momento was a very condensed

held my hand through the frightful final

right people will come into your life to

speech full of emotions, enthusiasm

days. And on that final stage behind the

guide you, help you, influence you and

and undeterred conviction what was

curtains, I made a special prayer to Allah

you will never be the same afterwards.

the moral message behind it? And

that I make everyone in District 20 proud

Many successful speakers make it to

what techniques did you use to make

and I do not go back empty handed.

the top without a mentor. Some need

the audience glued to your speech and

Alhamdulilah my prayer was answered

a mentor others don’t, it is a personal

ultimately win the championship at

and the subsequent joy was beyond

choice.

DTAC-2013 ?

description. The tears of joy in my father’s

In a nutshell, I was simply myself. I went

eyes and the shakiness in my mother’s

Perhaps one can argue that the ability to

on that stage and spoke as Shurooq. I

voice were a testimony of pride.

make extraordinary out of the ordinary

spoke from my heart. I narrated incidents

is one of your strength particularly that

from my personal diary and injected pulse

Tell us about your experience as a

most of your speeches are sprinkled

in them to drive my message through.

contestant in the World Championship

with your own stories or rather

While I was delivering my speech, I knew

of Public Speaking? And how does it

biographical what makes you take this

I did well when I noticed all eyes and ears

feel to be a role model for speakers from

direction?

were focused on me and the audience

the Arab World and District 20 at large?

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

And what made “Finding the Pearl “ a

Division, and District at large? And what

other members to make sure they have

winning speech from your perspective?

do you want to tell them?

benefited from each project before they

and how did your family members and

I wish there was a way that I can

move on to the next one. Why the rush?

friends responded to such a marvelous

personally thank every single

Yes it is learning by doing but as Dr.

news?

toastmaster in District 20 from Oman

Ralph C. Smedley said “We learn best in

The fact that I have been bestowed upon

Bahrain UAE Qatar Lebanon Jordan

moments of enjoyment.”

with this honor made my happiness

and Kuwait for their well wishes and

beyond description. When I gave find

undeterred support and shake hands

Did your Mega-winning in the USA

the pearl, my key message to the world

with them. They all made me feel that I

introduce any changes in your life?

was to believe that there is goodness

am part of an extended family that cares

On a personal level, I have become more

in everyone and the audience identified

about me. Let me take this opportunity to

hopeful about achieving goals that I once

with the Arab woman giving that

reiterate my appreciation thanks a million

deemed impossible. If you put your mind

speech especially with the common

fellow toastmasters being part of district

to it and remain focused and dedicated,

misconceptions some had of me.

20 has a rewarding taste with you around.

you will end up even surprising yourself.

Afterwards, I knew I hit a home run

This winning also taught me a little about

when toastmasters from different ethnic

As a tangible testimony of the positive

backgrounds stepped up to me and

impact of Toastmasters what do you

shared their personal stories identifying

want to tell others about this nourishing

An extended family that cares about me.

with my theme. This made me even more

and nurturing organization? And

Let me take this opportunity to reiterate

proud of my choice.

how did it impact your personal and

my appreciation and thanks a million

the priorities in my life.

professional life so far?

to fellow toastmasters for being part of

District 20 is certainly proud of its

Being a toastmaster is a life long

district 20.

pearl what support did you get from

relationship which one can take at

your fellow toastmasters at club, Area,

their own pace. I always encourage

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

INSPIRING MOHAMMED By Sunil D Kottarathil, DTM You cannot inspire, unless you’re

As International President-elect, he is a

inspired yourself. He is calm, ever-

working ambassador for the organization.

smiling, humble, and charismatic. He

He works with the Board to develop,

has worn the hat of a police officer,

support and modify the policies and

is an Entrepreneur, a Toastmaster,

procedures that guide the organization in

speaker, trainer and coach. But most

fulfilling its mission. Each of us in District

importantly - He is abundantly passionate

20 is inspired by him.

— not about Toastmastering itself, but about the different ways in which this

It’s true what they say- You cannot

wonderful organization can be utilized

inspire, unless you’re inspired yourself. By

to help people unleash their personal

his own admittance, he would like to give

creativity. He has articulated a vision,

back and serve Toastmasters that has

a course of action with single minded

given him so much.

focus to arrive at where he has. Meet Mohammed Murad, the first ever Muslim Arab from Middle East to become the International President of Toastmasters. RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

The Grandest Spectacle By Natalia Desai

The stage was set, the cameras were

compelling debates with six teams, one

ready and the registration desk queued

from each of the six areas of Div. I and

up to let in a monumental number of

O. The participants work in the fields of

participants, members and guests. For

Management, Engineering, Teaching,

the first time ever Kuwait witnessed a

Medicine, and Finance and set the stage

Debate Showcase Event organized and

on fire with their

produced by the collaborative efforts of

lively arguments.

the Divisions I and O of Toastmasters International. The Divisions are headed

At the Registration desk Natalia Desai,

by governors Bobbie Hoxit and John

Joanne John and Sreekant Nair, greeted

Joseph, who are exemplary leaders and

guests with warm and energetic smiles.

work tirelessly, leading and providing

As the canon sounds in the distance,

support at all times. The brains behind

so did we hear the hearty BOOM of

it all, the man of the hour was Area

Rodel Cuaton, Sergeant at Arms who

Governor Satish Kumar. His leadership

gave us the ground rules and then

was par excellence and his quiet brilliance

handed the podium to the Debate Event

revealed itself in the outcome of this

Chair – Satish Kumar. The warm and

successful event.

thunderous applause that followed his entry died down enough for him to

The hours preceding the show had eager

explain and introduce the reasons why

and animated organizers working around

a debate contest is the next best thing

the clock to ensure the event was the talk

in Toastmasters and will soon become a

of the town. Not a stone was left unturned

major part of our life. He also introduced

and for the first time ever Kuwait National

the Chief Judge for the evening a pioneer

Television (KTV2) covered the event. It

of the toastmasters movement in Kuwait

was with a feeling of pride and euphoria

and a friend like no other, Don Prades

that Division Governor Bobbie Hoxit and

who presided over the event as Chief

Area Governor Satish were interviewed

Judge for all three segments.

before the opening ceremony. There was

magnificent encouragement to participate

Toastmasters International states “The

in the Debate Showcase as it gave

debate setting encourages participants

members an outstanding opportunity to

to make quick responses, present

develop three basic abilities – Listening,

coherent arguments and make a clear

thinking and speaking. To give a unique

presentation of their views. Nowhere

twist to the show, the event had three

else can a Toastmaster find a more

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

“Debate provides an outstanding opportunity to develop three basic abilities – Listening, thinking and speaking.”

ideal method for learning competitive speaking in a direct opposition situation”. The Debate in this regard was a contention in which two sides used to reason discourse to argue about a particular subject. The immediate goal of each team was to convince a panel of judges and the audience that its arguments on the subject are better than those of the opposition. The debate for each segment was divided into three parts which began with a constructive speech where Speakers were asked to give a five minute speech supporting their side of the resolution. A brilliant cross examination came next where Speakers asked skillful questions aimed at discrediting the validity, adequacy or logic of specific aspects of the opposing side. Finally they summed it up with a chance to refute the other side’s argument, to rebut their own argument and finished with a concise summary of their case. The first debate started in fine fashion and had the audience gripped in excited silence. The Debate Chair – Area Governor Praveen Madhavan, one of the best humorous speakers quickly swiveled the contest into an exciting array of fun and entertainment. The topic was “Social Networking Web Sites are counterproductive“. The audience reacted to the arguments and vehement appeals made by the affirmative team – RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Musaddik Peshimam, Leslie Saldanha

profound designing skills and primed the

coordination. From amazing facts to

and Binoy Sebastian. And to counter

agenda, banners, updated social media

opposing views came the negative team

what they had to say were the warriors

channels and ensured that the props were

Avinash Awhad, Ganeshan and Rajesh

of the negative side – Dana Winner,

a delightful scene to behold was

George who refuted the arguments put

Sandy Stein and Milt Dana. After a

Noor Mohammad.

forward by their counterparts and walked

heated, heartening and holistic argument

away with trophies in hand. Avinash

the winners were the negative team.

Acting Sergeant at Arms, Area Governor

Awhad was titled Best Debater for

And Sandy Stein was declared the best

Vinod Raman at his charismatic best

this segment.

debater for this segment.

tackled the swarm of guests and kept all in order. With him Ronald Arias guarded

The refreshment stands were

the door so there would be no loud

meticulously organized by toastmaster

disturbances or distractions on entry and

Srihari Srinivasan who brought in a

exit during the event. And Rodel who was

variety of quick bites and finger food that

also the official photographer captured

went a long way in helping the contest

moments that bring to light the many

run smoothly. Naseema Khan played a

humorous scenes that replay in our minds

key role in ensuring each person had

till today.

a plateful of treats. The well - spaced

intervals gave members and guests

The second debate proved to give

opportunities to socialize, encourage

everyone, food for thought as Area

and support each other. The atmosphere

Governor Raymond Hernandez took the

was filled with a flurry of positivity and

stage. He gave us simple and funny rules

many a smile stayed fixed through the

to hush members who talk during the

event. The senior toastmasters such as

debate with a fervent shaking of head

Division Governors Bobbie Hoxit and

and hand. The topic for this debate was

John Joseph, Pradeep Vincent, and Anil

“People should be vegetarian to have

Lobo were all seen encouraging and

a better and healthier lifestyle.” The

mingling with people at the refreshment

affirmative side being Aminah Hassan,

stands. Another key role player who

Deylon Coutinho and Prince George

brought in his technical expertise and

who put forward their appeals in perfect

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

The buzzing of the crowd soon made way to the third segment of the Debate Showcase. After a healthy round of networking and making merry at the refreshment stand, contestants, members and guests all trooped their way into the big arena where the stage was set for yet another thrilling debate – “One parent should stay at home to take care of their children”. The excitement was palpable in the room as the Debate Chair Supriya Rojindar Deorukhkar took the stage and welcomed the participants of this round. Team Captain – Wafaa Salman of the affirmative side and her team mates Farah Al Elwani and Deepak Bindal gave the audience and the opposing team a run for their money as they made bold statements of contention. The opposition plowed through with its team led by Suresh Balakrishnan and team mates EP Prasad and Murali Manohar. The affirmative team walked away with the glory and Deepak Bindal was crowned Best Debater in this segment. Debate Event Chair Satish Kumar thanked all the Participants, Judges, Sponsors and role players for their active involvement in making the event a grand

and memorable one. The Chief Judge

to be achieved with a small amount of

Don Prades announced the winners

time. Three months of hard work were all

and the trophies were presented jointly

it took to bring all the clubs and members

by the Division Governors Bobbie Hoxit

together to share this camaraderie and

and John Joseph. Everyone went home

excitement on the BIG stage. This event

a victor as they absorbed the positive

can be summed up in three words – Fun.

vibes and made new friends. With great

Fantastic and theatrically FABULOUS.

success comes inordinate responsibility for all toastmasters present at the event. They have set the bar for future leaders who sharpen their skills today to take the stage in the very near future. To sum it up the Debate Showcase was no mean feat RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

BREEZE of DTAC At the jewel of Arabia, The Sultanate of

George Yen, DTM, wished his best for

As we open our hearts and minds and

Oman the ground floor for orchestrating

the event with a statement in an earlier

learn from each other, we experience the

a breathtaking DTAC procession is in

communiqué addressed to DG DTM

power of community. Some of our most

full Swing. The Event will be hosted

Victoria Ferrer Mustafa.

useful ideas may be the result of a simple

from the 15th to 17th of May 2014 at Al Bustan Palace Hotel, a Ritz-Carlton hotel

He stated that “A district conference is

in Muscat, Oman featuring magnificent

a great occasion for members to come

mountain, sea and garden views. With

together to celebrate achievements

Division D Governor and DTAC 2014

impeccable service, deluxe amenities

and successes, as well as to connect

Chair, TM Mahmood Ismail Safar

and 250 lavish guest rooms, resort’s

with other Toastmasters. It is also an

revealed that the DTAC theme this year

accommodations and within a close

opportunity to share experiences and

will be “Excelling Together” and among

proximity of so many site seeing places

best practices. As Toastmasters’ founder

the guests who will be adding a special

in the magnificently beautiful Capital

Dr. Ralph Smedley famously said, “We

flavor the district is inviting the 2nd Place

Muscat.

learn in moments of enjoyment.” Your

Winner in the World Champion of Public

district conference offers something for

Speaking 2013, Mr. Kingi Biddle. Besides,

both first-timers and veteran attendees.

final negotiation is being carried to make it

President of Toastmasters International 28

conversation with someone during this

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

event.”

Written by Saleh Abdullah AlKhamyasi

possible for “Judy Carter” to be a jewel on

the seven countries as well as outside the

breathtaking experience you have been

the crown of DTAC 2014.

district among us in Muscat so that we

longing for. Honor us with your presence

can all weave another story of success.

and active participation because it is by

He elaborated that DTAC 2014 as a

DTAC Marketing Committee Chair, TM

you and for you weaved with love and

mega event, is a moment of cultural

Bader AlLawati who has been busy with

affection.

appreciation where we will cherish and

his team in designing a DTAC special

rejoice our fraternity as a toastmaster’s

website stated that the website will be

Welcome to DTAC 2014 Muscat, Oman

family and roll our sleeves to strategically

available for registration on Thursday 20th

(15th -17th of May 2014). Rest assured

plan for way forward. DTAC this year

of February 2014.

that you will be among your family

will be delivered with a touch of Omani

members.

hospitality. Our visitors will go home

The breeze of DTAC is gently blowing

with a memorable tales to narrate to

towards you with a mesmerizing

More information about DTAC 2014 at

their families and love ones about their

assurance that DTAC 2014 in Muscat will

https://dtac2014.org

mouthwatering experience at DTAC 2014.

be just like the country which is hosting

He added we are so eager to see our

it, optimistically marvelous, assuring and

toastmasters’ brothers and sisters from

nurturing. Let us club hands to make it the RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

D20 GOT TALENT BRINGING YOU THE GEMS FROM ACROSS DISTRICT 20

BAHRAIN

JORDAN

KUWAIT

Tm Amal Al Safar, of Bahraini Leaders Toastmasters Club. She is the first Bahraini Woman who visited Antartica in 2013. An inspiration to women . She says - ‘ My passion towards life made me exposed to its nature and willing to expand my mental horizons for better. Therefore, I had to be involved in several global programs around the world to enhance my self-development and mutual understanding with other cultures

TM Alma Lou Annab from Rainbow Toastmasters Club in Amman, Jordan showcases her talent in Quilt Making. She believes people often want to purchase quilts, but she says hers are not for sale. The average person may appreciate the beauty of a piece, but don’t understand the time, effort and cost that go into making a quilt. Sometimes it takes years, along with the cost of the materials, many of which are not found locally.

TM Praveen Madhavan may be the funny man from Timbre Talkers, Kuwait but that’s not all. One of his talents includes his love for music. In 1998, he was the “Lead singer” of a music band in Kuwait called “City Limits. TM Praveen has been the only brown guy drummer in an all white 100 strong choir in Canada who followed his beats as he played according to an electronically programmed metronome !! His favourite saying is “Don’t die with the music still inside you !! ”

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

U A E

TM Shameema Ahmed , VP PR of Inner Universe Toastmasters Club - UAE. Her varied interests include travelling, photography, camping expeditions, along with singing, cooking. Her skill in photography is evident when the picture “ Smiles of Innocence” won an award in a contest. She believes , convincing people to be photographed is the key in getting unusual and good portrait photographs.

LEBANON

OMAN

QATAR

TM Alaa Arabi who hails from Lebanon loves to run, draw, write and travel. An inspiration to all he has a world of knowledge to impart to everyone.

TM Uma Syamala Nair the nightingale of Oman is trained in Indian Classical Singing. She is the VP – Membership of Exel Oman Toastmasters Club.

Narasimhan Ravi puts his heart and soul in every activity and he lives by the words “No Pain No Gain”

His Favorite quote: “There are those that look at things the way they are, and ask why? I dream of things that never were, and ask why not?” - Area 79 Governor, Division N

She stages performance and wins many accolades for her beautiful voice. She also loved reading and listening to music .

According to Narasimhan Ravi, his active participation in Gavel club meetings churns the best from him. His quest to succeed in life has just begun. He enjoys “Challenging his Limits!”

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Amal Al-Saffar, Kingdom of Bahrain

Climate, change, sustainability,

change. Nevertheless, there is always a

global programs around the world to

environment, pollution, these are all

stumble of stone ahead of me which I can

enhance my self-development and mutual

concepts that have been significantly

summarize in one word, “people.”

understanding with other cultures. One

considered by authorities around the

of these programs is my environmental

world to be maintained and looked after.

Unfortunately, not too many people pay

studies course in the UK (2011) as a

However, for some communities, it’s still a

attention to this and believe that it is

short period scholar. I can’t deny that

matter of words of mouth and something

happening as investment, competition

this actually added a value to my global

to be simply ignored.

and profit highly affect businesses’

awareness towards the green initiatives

behaviors I kept on thinking and looking

worldwide. Another international activity

As an undergraduate, it’s part of my

for supportive examples to change

was an exchange program on women’s

daily life to question, search and come

people’s mentality and add a new

leadership to the U.S. (2012) which I am

up with convincing arguments to have

threat to their table of actions. While I

just moved by. Both experiences have

a well-structured report and get highly

was reading some online sustainability

positively influenced my personality and

graded. In fact, this way of analyzing

articles, a great expression by Dr.

led me to witness a place that I never

things around me helped me wonder the

Guy McPherson, professor of natural

imagined my foot would set on one day.

universe and observe not only in order

resources and ecology got my attention,

It was during early 2013 when I had

to pass my courses, but to pass through

“If you really think the environment is

the privilege to witness the world’s

life challenges as well. This somehow

less important than economy, try holding

last wilderness, Antarctica on 2014

introduced me to the green world verses

your breath while counting your money.” I

International Antarctic Expedition. I had

economy. In other words, I realized the

couldn’t find a better illustrative example

to go through obstacles of course but I

impact of global economy on damaging

than this to enlighten people and alert

insisted on being up to that challenge

the Mother Earth.

them that our planet is a priority.

in order to inspire people back home, especially that I became the first Bahraini

To me, it’s more than important and

My passion towards life made me

I highly understand its aspects as

exposed to its nature and willing to

continuous environmental tragedies

expand my mental horizons for better.

After facing so many ups and downs,

get my notice and urge me to think for

Therefore, I had to be involved in several

my eyes where honored to meet the

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

woman joining this event ever.

sacred white continent with all of its

on earth alone.

natural atmospheres. It was pure, peaceful and quite. Icebergs, islands and

After this, I have one single request for

specious were free under no pressure or

whoever is reading this peace of writing;

restrictions. Simply, amazing!

just keep yourself in the place of that penguin, “will you accept someone ruining

I remember when we landed at Neko

your home”?

Harbor, one of my favorite spots on the Antarctic Peninsula; I was walking around

Let us all put hand in hand for better

with my camera lens rolling to capture

shaping our world so it always becomes a

the captivating views and innocent

better place. There is only one Earth that

penguins surrounding me. Accidentally,

until now is able to gather us all and I don’t

my foot hit one of the penguin’s territories

think any human being doesn’t want that.

or humble circle of stones as it can be

Keep your mind and soul awake and be

described. I couldn’t believe my eyes

sure that as long as you are remembering

when I saw him running towards me

the world, it will always remember you!

noticing the damage as he was blaming

As Written by Amal Al-Saffar (Kingdom of

me for a crime. Surprisingly, he kept on

Bahrain) :Green Earth Scholar 11 – The

collecting stones with his tiny mouth and

University of Northampton, UK | SUSI

placing them on the damaged place to

Women’s Leadership Scholar 12 – Kansas

restructure it as it was. I slowly observed

University, USA

“If you really think the environment is less important than economy, try holding your breath while counting your money”

all of that while realizing deep inside how smart and peaceful these creatures are and they don’t deserve any harm as we

By Amal Al-Saffar

intentionally do to them everyday. That was like a wakeup call that made me think and insist that we must leave this place

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Alma Lou Annab, Jordan

I’ve been an American Expat in Jordan

broaden my horizons. Why? I like to

for 50 years! Even so, my roots are truly

talk. And if I could get my messages

American!

across better, Toastmasters was for

As a teenager, I always enjoyed making

me. . And besides--I met new people,

my own clothes and this craft has

At the beginning of my senior year of

broadened my horizons, and learned

always been a favorite, practical and

studying Fine Arts at Arizona State

communication and leadership skills

satisfying.. But in time, I discovered

University, Tempe, I began a long

along the way.

quilting. It was at first a practical way

journey when I married my Palestinian

to add decorative articles to my home.

husband, and later moved to Jordan in

In 2012 I was elected to the post of

Then it became another mode of

1964. After many years of raising four

Secretary, and the following year I was

expression when i started doing more

children, the nest began to empty. New

elected President of Rainbow Club

artistic quilts from my own designs.

activities filled my time, mainly raising

for 2013-2014. . Though it is an honor

and training horses. One never ceases

to be President it is also a challenge

A few years ago, some friends of mine

to learn, and this taught me how to

to fulfill the commitments to the club

got together to share our common

communicate in many subtle ways.

membership all the way up to the top by

interest, and we call ourselves the Black

achieving the goals of the DCP.

Iris Quilters Guild. We average about 8

For many years I was an active

opportunities were unlimited.

ladies of different nationalities. Each of

member of the American Women of

My creative interests began when I

us has a favorite technique, from paper

Amman, in addition to other activities

was in high school, with drawing and

piecing, landscape, art, appliqué and

that kept me busy. Many times my

painting and sewing. I pursued my

embroidery.

American friends invited me to attend

interests to achieve a Bachelor of

a Toastmasters meeting, and not until

Fine Arts degree at ASU. Since Fine

We meet regularly to share our work

I attended a debate did I go again

Arts encompasses many areas of

and every year we make group quilts

and again, and decided it was a great

creativity, jewelry making, ceramics,

for charity. We have made four group

opportunity to meet new people and

interior design, fashion design, etc, my

quilts to raise funds for various charities

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

raising close to $2500. This year we are

others are translated from photos into a

working on individual challenges, “About

graphic layout. When I make ‘traditional’

Jordan” that will showcase the talents

patterns, the originality comes from the

and originality of each member.

components of color and fabric and embellishments like embroidery.

People often want to purchase quilts, but mine are not for sale. The average

Some things in life are constant. Family

person may appreciate the beauty of a

and friends. Quilting and Toastmasters.

piece, but do not understand the time, effort and cost that go into making a quilt. Sometimes it takes years, along with the cost of the materials, many of which are not found locally. The rule of thumb is-”If you have to ask how much, you can’t afford it.” And in a word, makes them

“Even the simplest item can become priceless when it is loved and cared for through the generations of a family.”

price-less. Personally, I love to make Lone Star Quilts, with a large one piece star that is complimented by other blocks. Art quilts is also an area where I can

By Alma Lou Annab

be most original. Some of these are abstract interpretations of an idea,

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Praveen Madhavan, KUWAIT TM Praveen Madhavan may be the funny

passionate musicians, singers and

singer, corporate trainer, but also he is a

man from Timbre Talkers, Kuwait but

dancers, He loves to play the drums and

natural leader, who transformed a dying

that’s not all. One of his talents includes

believes that “Music like love transcends

7 member club to 30 member strong

his love for music. He was the “Lead

all boundaries”. Ironically, he coaches on

President’s Distinguished club, as he laid

singer” of a music band in Kuwait called

Corporate Enterprise Communication.

the foundation for one of the best clubs

“City Limits”, which he formed in 1998.

TM Praveen has been the only brown

in Kuwait, Timbre Talkers. He currently

They played to a frenzied audience of

guy drummer in an all white 100 strong

serves as Area 19 Governor.

about 3000 people at Doha Entertainment

choir in Canada who followed his

city during India Day.

beats as he played according to an

A man of many skills and talents, TM

electronically programmed metronome!

Praveen is a very humble and a simple

Not only is Praveen a drummer, lead

man.

TM Praveen comes from a family of

Praveen Says “There is a greater joy in giving than in receiving”

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

UMA SYAMALA NAIR, OMAN TM Uma Syamala Nair hails from

Project Leader at IMTAC LLC, but also

articles are published not only online but

the Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own country, Kerala is the

manages to read, listen to music, attend

also in other souvenirs and magazines.

nightingale of Oman. She is trained in

toastmasters meetings and do stage

She is presently the Vice President

Indian classical singing, Karnatic Vocals

performances for college alumni functions

Membership at Exel Oman Toastmasters

and won many prizes throughout school

and other community organizations

Club, Muscat, Oman. She is a member of

and college and continues to do so.

in Muscat, Oman. A truly empowered

Toastmasters since November 2012.

woman. TM Uma is a Software Engineer with a background of Masters in Computer

TM Uma is also an avid writer. She blogs

Applications, not only works as a

at http://umasyamala.blogspot.com. Her

uma believes If art is to nourish the roots of our culture, society must set the artist free to follow his vision wherever it takes him. John F. Kennedy

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

narasimhan ravi, QATAR

A dream doesn’t become reality

the best from the gulf region including

through magic; it takes sweat,

Lebanon and Jordon @ Dubai to clinch

determination and hard work.

this prestigious title.

- Colin Powell

swimming, basketball and so on.. Starting from adorning the mantle of the under-10 Qatar table Tennis Champion;

This young man is a chump-turned-champ

the year 2012 table tennis champion

Narasimhan Ravi, a 11th grade student

with sheer hard work. His busy life starts

of Qatar School Olympics organized

of Birla Public School (BPS) has won the

at 4:00am with a 200km travel from his

by Aspire Sports Academy; three years

title of the International Speech Champion

home at Dukhan to school in Doha, as

consecutive representative of Qatar at

three times consecutively at Qatar Inter-

well as his table tennis training and further

CBSE Cluster National Table Tennis

Gavels contest. He represented Qatar

with a plethora of activities until 11:00

Tournaments in India; and silver medalist

(Division E) in 2013 and emerged as

PM. Narasimhan juggles his education

in Qatar School Olympics 2013 are some

District-20 (Gulf Region) Champion at

and co-curricular activities so well like a

of the titles to Narashimhan’s credit.

Gavels International Contest showcased

professional. He has maintained nearly

Narasimhan is a regular medal collector

at Inter-Continental Hotel at Festival

100% school attendance for the past five

in Table Tennis Tournaments organized

City, Dubai, where jam packed audience

years. According to his dad, “Narsimha

by Al-Khor Community (Oil & gas), Qatar

were inspired by his winning speech

was a timid and chump kid. But constant

Petroleum-Dukhan Community and Indian

“Challenge Your Limits”.

motivation from his mother and myself

Cultural Center.

added to his own determination to achieve,

Winning the Gulf Region Champion title

has turned him into a multi–talented

He started his table tennis training at

is the most coveted and highest honor

person with an eye to succeed.” With

Al-Rayyan club, at the age of 7 and

for a student of his age. The journey to

his ‘Hand-eye Coordination’ developed

is still continuing his training with a

his victory started with the club contest,

through table tennis complementing him,

Russian coach. He also takes training

moving on to inter-gavels division contest

Narasimhan has 65 trophies and 38

for Badminton with a Qatar Badminton

with 10 other gavel clubs in Qatar, and

medals from all sorts of sports like tennis,

Academy Coach. Narasimhan Ravi who

further on to lock horns with the best of

badminton, football, chess, running,

is the current President of Dukhan Gavels

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Club has served his office as Sergeant @

a hundred times to attain perfection. His

directly proportional to his commitment to

Arms, Vice-President Public-Relations,

patience, obedience and observation skills

excellence, regardless of the field he has

Vice-President Education. Religiously like

will see him go a long way to succeed in

chosen.

his school attendance, he never missed a

all walks of life. I am proud to have such a

single gavels (53 gavel meetings) club

mentee.”

A routine question his parents get is “How does your boy find time for all these

meeting, since its inception. Dukhan Gavels Club Counselor and the

activities?” Their answer maintains that,

Last year he has participated in a skip

current ADGET TM Nasimudeen Hameed

“He wisely utilizes the time that he could

rope challenge organized by Dukhan

is a constant motivator of Narasimhan

have wasted on facebook, chatting and

Fitness Center, Qatar Petroleum. He won

Ravi. He says that he had envisaged

videogames on his studies and sports.

the contest with 38,500 skips on a single

Narasimhan’s victory much earlier, since

His ever smiling face with his humble and

day and with a total of 145,000 skips in

he has the potential to succeed and

obedient nature to accept good advices

20 days! He was motivated by his dad to

bring more laurels to Dukhan Gavel.

from elders has rendered him success.”

realize his true potential. Narasimhan Ravi

Nasim says “more wonders are yet to

took this achievement as a message for

come!” Narasimhan Ravi’s whole family

When the same question was put up to

his winning speech, which was given the

is toastmasters! All four family members

Narsimhan, he said “I put my heart and

Midas touch by Past ADGET, DTM Sameer

(Parents and his sister) are Competent

soul in every activity that I do and I try

Hassan Moosa - his special mentor for

Communicators and CC Family in

to live by the so true words “No Pain No

contest speeches. DTM Sameer could be

Qatar. He is the first gavel member to

Gain”. According to Narasimhan Ravi, his

termed a chef of perfect winning recipes

have completed 10 speech projects and

active participation in Gavel club meetings

in public speaking and according to him,

got “Competent Gavelior” Award from

has churned out the best in him. His quest

“This young boy Narsi, is the ideal material

Toastmasters International.

to succeed in life has just begun and he

to mould-out a winner. Because I have

enjoys “Challenging his Limits & Keeping

witnessed his commitment in practicing

Narasimhan is an excellent role model

Good Bonds” All the best for his future

all his winning speeches line-by-line over

to teens and his journey of success is

endeavors!

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Shameema Ahmed, U.A.E Toastmaster Shameema hails from

Toastmasters Club, one of the oldest and

photographer, who love photographing

the north eastern part of India, from

prominent clubs of Division H in District

exciting portraits of people. According

a state called Assam. She joined the

20. Apart from the fast evolving speaking

to her, convincing people to be

toastmastersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; movement in 2011, being

and leadership skills, TM Shameema is a

photographed is the key in getting

inspired after attending one of the district

bouquet of varied interest and activities,

unusual and good portrait photographs.

conventions.

which complements each other.

Similarly, she believes, outdoor camping expeditions come with great opportunities

Since then, it has been a dedicated

Her portfolio of interests includes

for photography, and also provide a

journey with the Toastmasters movement,

travelling, photography, camping

candid atmosphere to communicate and

where she has grown into the role of

expeditions, along with singing, cooking

understand fellow campers.

VP, Public Relations of Inner Universe

etc. She has been an avid traveler and

Live full Singing and cooking had been her forte since young age. She has specialized in Indian Music and had been an avid performer in her younger times. On the other hand, she is an experimental cook, who feels traditional dishes should be left in their purity, without tempering them, but we can certainly cook up something creating usual, yet exciting by an intelligent mix and match of ingredients. Dressing up the food is of paramount interest for her. Toastmaster Shameema has evolved as a person, combining her interests, hobbies and new acquired skills in Toastmasters, which makes her a great home maker, with a difference.

RAINBOWÂ MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

division governors district 20 71

REGION 11

20 79 20

WATC

20 DISTRICT BAHRAIN JORDAN KUWAIT LEBANON

OMAN QATAR U.A.E

S.NO DIVISION COUNTRY DIVISION GOVERNOR’S NAME 1 A Bahrain Elpidio Quitevis, DTM 2 B Dubai Sami Al Herbawi, CC, CL 3 C Bahrain Ashok Kumar, DTM 4 D Oman Mahmood Ismail Safar, ACS, CL 5 E Qatar Saquib Raza Khan, DTM 6 F Dubai Christine Anne Coombe, DTM 7 G Kuwait Jassim Aboalhasan, ACB, CL 8 H Abu Dhabi Bharat H Mehta, DTM 9 I Kuwait Bobbie Hoxit, DTM 10

Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Dubai

Sujit Sukumaran, DTM

11 K Bahrain N.S. Premalatha, DTM 12 L Oman Srikumar Pai, DTM 13 M Kuwait Nahla Al Rushaid, DTM 14 N Jordan & Lebanon Alia Haddad, ACS, CL 15 O Kuwait John Joseph, ACG, ALB

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Each year International Women’s Day

August 1973? In spite of women’s late

(IWD) is celebrated on March 8. The first

entry to Toastmasters, 52.7% of the

International Women’s Day was held

Toastmasters are women based on a

in 1911. Thousands of events occur to

study made in November 2013, among 93

mark the economic, political and social

countries.

achievements of women. Organizations,

By Maria Victoria Ferrer Mustafa, DTM 42

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

governments, charities, educational

Women play a very important role in

institutions, women’s groups, corporations

Toastmasters-whether they are active in

and the media celebrate the day. This

Toastmasters or they are supportive wives

year’s theme is “INSPIRING CHANGE” as

to our leaders and members. Whenever

declared by the United Nations.

I meet a wife of TM - XYZ leader, I would always ask-“Why don’t you join

Did you know that Toastmasters

Toastmasters”? She would always reply “It

membership was opened to women in

is enough that I give him my full support.”

“Let us inspire a positive change to our family, our extended family in Toastmasters which is turn creates a society that would provide a better place to live in for our children and the future generation.

“

I learned to communicate with my

owe it to Toastmasters to give back and

of rights and for the women, who asserted

husband who was a Jordanian in

spread our mission to other women

themselves so that they can become

a positive way, avoiding senseless

whom we know will benefit fully from the

members of Toastmasters in August,

arguments that could end up in fights.

programs.

1973. Let us dedicate this day to our

I was able to bridge the generation

mothers, wives, sisters and daughters

gap between me and my children

To our women fellow leaders and

who are always there to support us in our

by understanding their way of

Toastmasters, let us inspire a positive

endeavors.

communicating and learning how to put

change to our family, our extended family

across my message in a non-aggressive

in Toastmasters which is turn creates a

To the women Toastmasters in District

way. I would not say I am a perfect

society that would provide a better place

20 - March 8 is our special day. Happy

person – rather I have become a better

to live in for our children and the future

International Women’s Day!

one. We , in Toastmasters become good

generation. Let us celebrate International

communicators, more effective leaders

Women’s Day to commemorate the

and positive contributors to society. We

countless women who fought for equality RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

George Yen, DTM John Toastmasters International President (2013 - 2014)

RAINBOWÂ MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Celebrating Yen’s Voice of Wisdom By Natalia & Saleh Our Present Toastmasters International

And in that one moment in time, the world

empowering or disempowering your team.

President (2013 - 2014) George Yen, DTM

of Toastmasters opened up before me.

I have long believed that Toastmasters have

injects us with a nourishing viewpoint every

Like meeting a soul mate for the first time, I

the unique insight to use public speaking

month. The Toastmasters Magazine is not

wondered, where have you been all my life?”

in a supportive environment as a means

fully read unless the fragrance of his wisdom

of achieving personal empowerment.

is celebrated as a gift of life. George Yen

The District 20 Rainbow Team was given an

Self-confidence is the byproduct of an

hails from Taipei, Taiwan. He is not your

uninhibited view and insight into the pearls

empowered person and an essential quality

run-of-the-mill leader; but strives to be

of wisdom he gladly shared with us. And in

in a leader. Once acquired, this sense of

different from the rest – His energetic smile

turn share we must because when a leader

empowerment and all its benefits show up in

and unique style is creating waves across

speaks, we listen. And on this note we put

every aspect of our lives—in our professional

the Toastmaster fraternity. As a working

pen to paper and write so it’s etched in our

career as well as our personal relationships.

ambassador of this organization, he holds

minds. The words of a leader are here:

Speech is the means by which we reach the infinite universe of lifelong learning and

the torch that is going to inspire a gazillion people. In this fast paced sphere – the world

The more you give, the more you get. Each

self-discovery. On one level, there is the

that promises us to refine our leadership

time you give a speech, take on a meeting

external realm of knowledge and skill, such

skills, speak effectively and use our many

role or serve as an Officer. Seize that

as the techniques of self-expression through

talents. He expresses like a true leader, the

moment in time to be more than you thought

speech. Then there is the inner realm of

progress along with so many toastmasters

you could be and shine.

hidden talents that is buried within us, waiting

who are set to change the world in sure

If leadership is about influencing others to

to be discovered and developed.

footed ways.

achieve a common goal, then the first task is

If anything, despite the revolution in

to build a team, or as the 2012 Golden Gavel

communication technologies, Smedley’s

George Yen currently serves as the Chief

recipient John C. Maxwell said, “From me to

vision remains more relevant today than

Executive Officer of five international

we.”

when he developed that powerful insight

joint ventures with Japanese, Canadian

Communication is the basic ingredient for

almost a century ago. As our world shrinks

and American corporations in the fields

establishing essential trust, which in turn

rapidly and becomes increasingly complex,

of machinery and industrial products.

empowers the team to be successful.

the need for more effective communication

He speaks four languages and holds a

For a leader to gain the collaboration of the

and leadership is now more important than

master’s degree in international relations

team members, he or she needs to have an

ever before.

from the Wharton School at the University of

open heart and mind. We need to overcome

A thunderous silence meets us after this

Pennsylvania. His foray into Toastmasters

the all too human attachment of being right.

enriching, empowering and enlightening talk.

started twenty four years ago and he

This would mean putting aside our ego and

All toastmasters need to be bringers of the

remains a dedicated member of two clubs.

being willing to be wrong.

light. For our light doesn’t only illuminate our

Toastmasters, is a great practice field

own path but paves the way for so many

He recalls “Twenty-four years ago, after 20

for leadership. Since you aren’t giving

others to come. President George Yen sets

years of achieving and losing the American

Toastmasters members a job or a paycheck,

this beacon of light as an example to the

dream in New York City, I returned to Taipei,

they follow you only because they choose

many toastmasters who make their way into

Taiwan, where I grew up. Upon my return,

to. As you exercise this purest form of

the world of self-discovery and improvement.

I walked into Prestige Toastmasters club.

leadership, look around to see if you are RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Flying with Wings of Fire By Dr. Rajan Philips, DTM Oman GAVEL CLUBS CONTESTS 2014

The morning session witnessed two sets

The judges, Toastmasters and guests were

held on Friday, 24th January 2014 at the

of Semi-final contests at two venues in

unanimous in applauding the exemplary

New Multi-Purpose Hall of Indian School

the school. From each of these top three

performance of the Gaveliers at these

Muscat (ISM) the Gaveliers representing

winners moved into the final round which

contests. The day remains the talk of town

12 different registered Gavel Clubs now

was held in the afternoon. The contests

and everyone still remembers the fertile

actively functioning in the Sultanate put up a

were organized with meticulous precision

minds and versatile imagination of the

splendid show.

and efficiency by a team of experienced

young talented contestants.Their images

Toastmasters, teacher volunteers and

are still vivid in our minds and words are

The contests were held in 4 categories,

Gavelier role players led by the dynamic

still being passed around describing their

International speech, Humorous speech,

DTM Srikumar Pai, Division governor of

stunning performance because that day

Table topics and Evaluation.

Division L.

they really did fly with wings of fire.

Dr. Rajan says We should not keep the lid on a secret act of unfair treatment, victimisation and discrimination. We cannot close our eyes to something dishonest, immoral or illegal or when a life is endangered. We must shift our focus from ‘what’s wrong’ to ‘what’s right’ and enjoy the radiant sunshine while it lasts. Let us always remember that positive thinking is a great way to begin the journey that will lead us on to positive action and a way of life that’s brimming with true success and peace of mind. There is no pillow as soft as a clear conscience. - French proverb

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

TOUR OF TOASTMASTERS HQ.

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Putting Fire in Your Desire By Rajesh Daga, DTM

A person shows what he is by what he does with what he has no one; No one can stop him if he has fire in his desire. A few years ago, when I came across this line, it set me thinking. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such a powerful statement. There are numerous examples of successful people who started with nothing, facing insurmountable adversities, difficult challenges. Yet, they cared only about their passion, heard only their inner call, ignoring all negatives as an angry and annoyed wife ignores her husband. I invite you to come with me to a small town called Akola in central India near Nagpur, the year 2004. A young and intelligent girl of 18 wanted to break the family tradition. She wanted to be an engineer. She was ready to face any challenge, any hurdle, any hardship, to be what she wanted. She had the fire in her desire to become an engineer. She had spent all her life outside

cold tasteless mess food. She cheerfully

the soil after the first rain filled her nostrils.

India in with all comforts and luxuries, away

accepted because her deep passion to be

She casually kept her arm on the window

from the struggles and uncertainties.

an engineer. In summers, the temperature

railing as the girls excitedly talked about the

will reach 44 degrees C, when walking from

movies they were going to see.

Getting used to a new life, that too in

hostel to classroom, will be like taking a

a remote college campus with no air

shower.

conditioners, joint toilets, and tasteless mess food was certainly not easy.

Suddenly, there was a loud crushing noise of metals hitting against each

In the second year, on a Sunday afternoon,

other. Moments later, a piercing, painful

this girl along with two of her best friends

scream filled the bus. One alert passenger

She got admission in a top engineering

boarded a bus to go the town to see a

screamed the driver to stop the bus.

college of Central India on merit. Suddenly,

movie. In a childlike enthusiasm, she

Another bus coming from the opposite

there was a complete change in her

rushed ahead of her friends to grab the

side, passed dangerously close, hitting the

environment. From clean attached western

only window vacant seat in last row. As the

outstretched elbow of the girl with great

toilets to common toilets shares by 10

bus hurtled and scuttled towards the town

force. Her elbow was badly crushed in to

girls. From her independent air-conditioned

at a break neck speed, on a dusty and

several pieces. She was writhing in pain, as

room to a small room with just a fan and a

narrow road, she was enjoying the view of

blood started oozing from the wound.

small window, sharing with 3 other girls and

lush green country as sweet fragrance of

RAINBOWÂ MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Ragesh Daga, DTM

In excruciating and unbearable pain, right

Any other person, in this situation would

Unshakeable faith and belief in yourself,

from the bus, she asked her friend to make

have quit the course and returned home

fierce determination and courage to

an international call to her mom. As her

to a comfortable and protected family

continue despite setbacks.

friends tried to cover her elbow with their

environment. But not this girl. She had the

scarf, she took the phone from her friend.

fire still burning brightly in her to become an

Helen Keller, said, “We can do anything we

Trying to sound calm and normal, she

engineer. And she did not give up. Friends,

want, if we put fire in our desire. What is

spoke softly, Mom, I have met with a small

this girl is my elder daughter Kavita,…..

your next goal?”

accident, don’t worry, my friends are taking

thanks to doctors in Oman and India, she

care. I will be all right.

has now recovered fully. The elbow is

If A equals success, then the formula is A

completely normal although it has the scars

equals X plus Y and Z, with X being work,

It’s one of the most wonderful things about

as reminder of that horrific moment. Not

Y play, and Z keeping your mouth shut.

nature, that Mothers have aperient sixth

only she completed her engineering, she

~Albert Einstein

sense when it’s about her children. She

got married to a handsome boy Ayush. And

knew it’s serious and took the next flight.

then, she took the challenge once again to

In next 6 months, there were 3 major

successfully complete her MBA from Asian

operations of small but complicated joint

Institute of Management, Manila.

and long, painful physio-exercise. At one point of time, it appeared her hand

I have relieved the incident and the pain

movement would be restricted to only 10%.

many times over. What made her continue

Which meant she will not be able to lift more

against all odds? It was only because of the

than 500 gms, or brush her teeth or even

fire in her desire to become an engineer. I

comb her hair or even eat normally.

realized that I have discovered the secret formula of achieving our goals. Your goals. RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

a PUFF of POETRY Nasra Al Adawi Member of New Tracks Toastmasters, Poetess and Writer

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

connecting the dots

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

From Laughter to Success Ever After By Rency Patcheco ... There is a lot of talk about some crazy themes in Humoroids TM club .. President Derick.. How do you comment

First of all.. I don’t pick the TMEs.. They just pick themselves!! Then they say we have a Hairraising theme... And then this happens...

One too many times, rumors had floated about an off-beat Toastmasters Club conducting insane meetings that supposedly expand it’s members lung capacity. This time the District LGET TM Subha Anupindy decided to investigate. She had just reached the venue where the Humoroids Club meeting was in progress. It was quiet & all seemed well. Thinking she was misinformed, she began to leave when out of NOWHERE….. Bwwaagrgahahheeaaghahaghh!!!! The loud roar completely shook her hitherto steady walk!! What in blazes was that!! Were people dying,

Confucious Say: If the creator did make a mistake, he would cover it with HAIR!!.. The Rock gives Respect!!!

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

...Hey C’mon Man!! I can give them all a haircut in no time.. PLUS.. I can show them the other side of life.. muuuahaha

... A FREEE Haircut.. That sounds good..Let’s dance!! & since I am Salim Sayyid, I quote, “A dance is a dance when the Lungi also dances, so bring on the Lungi Dance.. Over to You”

See what I mean..No one even listens to me.. Sometimes its a disadvantage having an extremely good looking President.. members don’t take seriously

Don’t listent him.. Haann.. How are you? Fine?...This meeting I am the farmer aka Aamir Khan of Lagaan..The difference being I can play cricket a lot better than him..

Aaawwwww.. DG Bharat is such a good sport.. that Crabby Crow just hates my Scarecrow outfit!! I know it!! I think this barnyard is perfect..

...Next another TME.. MTM Rency.. she wanted to dedicate a meeting to her village.. And we have Cows & Crows... She turned me.. THE President.. into a Crow..!!!

I am confused.. am I a Cow or a Bull.. Heck.. who cares.. as long I can moo myself outta here!!

OHHH MYY Gawwwdd.. What on earth is going on here.. Over-hairy-ness to Barnyard!! I CANT WATCH!!

I CAN watch but someone stuck a mask on my face... TM Derick is the culprit.. when I send my 201st email, he will cry!!

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Twilight

Zone

I believe I can fly, placed an order with the Pizza guy... With some wedges or onion rings, from McDonalds or Burger King, I believe I can soar, a girl slapped me in the grocery stooorrree...

…. And so it was that the District LGET unexpectedly experienced the “Twilight Zone” effect in one meeting….

Na na na na .. You can’t catch me... I’m not crying baby!! I’m flying!! When no one is watching I do the Vroom Vroom Vroom

TM Derick is a fine Toastmaster FANTASSTTIKK CORRRECCKKKTT!!

Do you SEE what I SEE

Gotta behave myself in front of the Area Governor!! BUTTTOOO... All’s well that ends well.. We firmly believe in giving the BEST SPEAKER to the BEST Speaker.. One definitely deserves the other!!

AAII Seee it.. Bhaatt AAIII Don’t BAALLLVVEE It!!

Wallahiiii and the Lazim too!!

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

Is this why Division H is always sooo spunky at any given time… she wondered?! Her work here was done….. She walked into the sunrise, towards Bright Horizons…. Wait a sec, isn’t that in Kuwait!! … aaahh well, another Toastmaster Club, another twilight zone!! Wallahiiii and the Lazim too!! With some wedges or onion rings, from McDonalds or Burger king, I believe I can soar, a girl slapped me in the grocery stoooorrree…….. The humoroids advanced toastmaster club saga,the other side of the public speaking

GROWING ARABIC TOASTMASTERS COMMUNITY

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

FOUR TO SCORE Saleh Abdullah Alkhamyasi, Editor

Sunil D Kottarathil, DTM

TM Natalia Desai

TM Noor Mohammad

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

“YOU NEVER KNOW WHO YOU WILL FIND WHEN YOU REACH OUT”. THE OUTCOME WAS AWE-INSPIRING.

Visualizing success is an act with a positive attitude. It is an initial step in believing in your capabilities. Such an attitude is applicable to both individuals and teams. When the task of delivering the Rainbow was entrusted to us the first thing we asked ourselves was - Can we do it? Surprisingly, all of us responded with a resounding YES we can!! By the Yes attitude we visualized our success. We decided that none of us is as smart as all of us. Next we let the law of attraction work its charms, by helping us bring out our district’s scintillating rainbow in all its hue and dazzling shine. As Presiyan Vasilev 2013 World Public Speaking Champion says, “You never know who you will find when you reach out”. The outcome was awe-inspiring. This issue speaks volumes about the many hidden treasures of District 20. Like all newsletters that are meant to be stylish, luxuriant, and rich with color and texture, this one is a kaleidoscope of jewels. It also does its name more embellishment than justice. Here in our third edition of the Rainbow, we showcase hidden talent and impart pearls of wisdom from Toastmasters across District 20 and a few beyond the borders. There’s something in here for all of us. From the epitome of grace District 20 Governor DTM Vicky Ferrer’s potent message, Invigorating Interviews, Animated Articles, Recognition and Rewards, Memories of DTAC to Mastering Toastmasters in Arabic, Introducing District Officers and Division Governors and celebrating International President, DTM George Yen’s words of

wisdom. We bring you a District, brimming with stupendous talent, brilliant speakers and those destined to change the world. The world of opportunity thrives in this district, as toastmasters, we take the bull by the horns and paint a colorful rainbow in the sky. Beginning with the end in mind, our issue was designed to be a thought provoking, enlightening, and certainly an enriching experience. It was written with a mirroring perspective so that we can enjoy the beauty of our Rainbow. It is forged to illustrate that District 20 Got Talent and will showcase it right here and right now. Our Rainbow is a feast to expand your horizons and connect the various colors of our District 20 Rainbow in order to appreciate our unique diversity. We are indebted to the unlimited support we have received from our magnanimous leader District Governor DTM Vicky Ferrer, whose unyielding support saw this through to the very end. Besides, we would like to thank our District PRO TM Kiruba Vaithilingam for his inspiring touch and consistent encouragement. I would like to mention my fantastic team who worked to let the magazine see the light of day. Thanks a million TM Noor Mohammed, TM Sunil Kottarathil and TM Natalia Desai. Together we look forward to winning your hearts through this issue of the Rainbow. Until then the four promise to quadruple the score.

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014

DISTRICT 20 TOASTMASTERS ANNUAL CONFERENCE, DTAC 2014 AL BUSTAN PALACE HOTEL, OMAN 15 MAY 2014 - 17 MAY 2014

At the jewel of Arabia, The Sultanate of Oman the ground floor for orchestrating a breathtaking DTAC procession is in full swing. The event will be hosted from the 15th to 17th of May 2014 at Al Bustan Palace Hotel, a Ritz-Carlton hotel in Muscat, Oman featuring magnificent mountains, sea and garden views. With impeccable service, deluxe amenities and 250 lavish guest rooms, resort’s accommodations and within a close proximity of so many site seeing places in the magnificently beautiful Capital Muscat. DTAC 2014 will be the most memorable event of District 20.

For more information about the event visit http://dtac2014.org

P.O. Box: 4539, Tla Al Ali, Amman, Jordan, +962 799 824 845, info@d20toastmasters.org DISTRICT 20 INCLUDES BAHRAIN, JORDAN, KUWAIT, LEBANON, OMAN, QATAR AND U.A.E 58

RAINBOW MAGAZINE - APRIL 2014