From Diplomacy to Self-Discovery: Highlights from Our 23 September Meeting
Our meeting on 23 September was a powerful reminder of why Toastmasters is about so much more than learning how to speak—it’s about learning how to listen, reflect, grow, and connect.
From thoughtful leadership insights to deeply personal speeches and a lively Table Topics competition, the evening showcased the courage, creativity, and confidence of our members.
Leadership Through Listening: Opening Address
Our President, Pete Ashton, opened the meeting with a reflection inspired by recent world events, drawing parallels between diplomacy on the global stage and communication within our Toastmasters community.
He reminded us that diplomacy is not passive—it requires patience, humility, and intentional listening. Whether hosting world leaders or delivering feedback in an evaluation, the goal is the same: to create space for understanding and inclusion.
Pete’s key takeaway resonated throughout the evening:
Every word we speak has the potential to reduce fear, encourage participation, and help others grow.
This set the tone for a meeting rooted in encouragement, adaptability, and respect.
 |
 |
 |
Prepared Speeches: Stories That Inspire Growth
From Pontius Pilate to Alumni Strategies
Helen Nicholson took us on a remarkable journey through her public speaking life—from playing Pontius Pilate in a childhood school play (bedsheet costume and all) to delivering professional presentations in her career in Alumni Relations.
Despite years of experience, Helen candidly shared how receiving disappointing feedback at a professional conference became a turning point. Rather than retreat, she chose to practice, improve, and grow—and that path led her to Toastmasters.
Her message was both reassuring and empowering:
Public speaking is a skill. Like any skill, it improves with practice, feedback, and a supportive environment.
 |
 |
The Right Mentor on the Wrong Path
In her compelling speech, Beata Holeckova explored the complex role mentors play in our lives.
While mentors can be life-changing—helping us see our potential and accelerate our progress—Beata reminded us of a harder truth: even the best mentor cannot make the wrong path feel right.
Through her own experience, she shared three powerful lessons:
-
Energy is your compass – if something feels wrong, it probably is.
-
Value the mentor, not just the goal – the relationship can outlast the project.
-
Have the courage to walk away – quitting is not weakness; sometimes it’s clarity.
Her speech prompted many to reflect deeply on their own paths and choices.
 |
 |
Table Topics Competition: Quick Thinking, Big Personality
The evening’s Table Topics Competition brought laughter, creativity, and spontaneity to the room, as members tackled unexpected questions on autumn, advertising, food, and festive traditions.
Highlights included:
-
Alex, who turned a question about Christmas adverts into a passionate (and humorous) defence of ad blockers.
-
Ray, who firmly rejected pumpkin spice in favour of traditional, honest food.
-
Darryl, who personified Autumn as a fiery red-haired runner, crisp and rebellious.
-
Matthias, who reflected on family traditions and resisting supermarket gimmicks.
-
Jay, who shared his love of early festive lights and reusable Christmas trees.
-
Phil, who argued that autumn doesn’t need improving—shorts, stews, mulled wine, and real fires are excitement enough.
-
Dawn, who delighted us with her imaginative “Dawn’s Delight” drinks, from gin margaritas to perfectly spiced mulled wine.
The competition was a fantastic demonstration of how Table Topics helps members build confidence, think on their feet, and have fun while doing it.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Why Toastmasters Works
Across every role and every speech, one theme stood out clearly:
growth happens in a supportive community.
Toastmasters provides a space where:
-
feedback is constructive and encouraging
-
mistakes are welcomed as learning opportunities
-
confidence is built one speech at a time
Whether members are developing leadership skills, overcoming nerves, or simply finding their voice, the journey is shared.
Join Us at Our Next Meeting
If you’re curious about Toastmasters or looking to build confidence in speaking and leadership, we’d love to welcome you.
When: Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday
Time: 7:30pm
Venue: Nuffield Health Centre, Newbury
Guests are always welcome for a free taster session
Come along, meet a friendly group, and discover what Toastmasters can do for you.
