Toastmasters International Division L Conference Magazine

Conference Advisors

Division L Director 2016 Conference Chair 2016 Conference Vice Chair IPDD
TM Abul Aziz Al Sharekh DTM Peri TM Nawaf DTM Venkat

Contest Operations Education & Editorial Marketing PR & Media Registration Awards & Recognition

Conference Chair & Vice Chair

TM Karthik TM Mohammed Zakariya TM Majed Al Shangiti TM Musthafa TM Palaniraj TM Nanda Kumar
Chairman Chairman Chairman Chairman Chairman Chairman

TM Sathya Conference Chair Conference Vice Chair TM Nidhin TM Jibert
Vice Chair Vice Chair Vice Chair
DTM Manivannan TM Meshal AL Anazi

TM Shibu Xavier TM Salamah Al NAzzal Team of Mentors TM Hrishikesh Murali
Vice Chair Vice Chair Vice Chair

DTM DR RJ GEORGE DTM JAMIL AKTHAR TM HUZAIFFA

Stage Management Sergeant At Arms Venue & Infrastructure Catering & Hospitality Finance

TM Udayakumar TM Biju C R TM Surendra Chari TM Madhusudan TM Sivadas
Chairman Chairman Chairman Chairman Chairman

TM Abdul Rahim TM Mark Villena Jameel Omar Ba Abdullah
Vice Chairman Vice Chair

Division L Conference 2017

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Message from

Mike Storkey, DTM

2016-2017 International President

Fellow Toastmasters in District 79 Division L,

Welcome to your division conference in Jubail City. During
your conference, enjoy the opportunity to hone your skills as a
communicator and leader, and to extend your knowledge by
networking with your fellow members from around the
district. Friendships will be made and renewed as you
celebrate each other’s successes, find new ways to tackle
common challenges, and hear speakers who will entertain and
inspire you.

Ensure you get full value from this opportunity by
participating in the atmosphere of fun, excitement and
stimulation the conference offers. Most importantly, when you
return to your respective clubs, share your experiences with
members who could not attend the conference. Remember,
knowledge is only worth something when you share it with
others. Please make a point of remembering the members who
could not make it and make them feel part of the event.

Yours in Toastmasters,

Mike Storkey, DTM Connect Contribute Conquer
International President 2016-2017
Division L Conference 2017

Division L Conference 2017

“Businesses Must Connect to People for Real Division L Conference 2017
Success”
Marty Zwilling Connect Contribute Conquer

In Toastmasters, we say “Leaders Must Connect to their 3. Level three: Shape the intent of the connection. Great
members for Real Success”. connectors don’t just fall into conversations, they carefully
shape them with conscious intent and tone. Action verbs are
This year, Division L conducts it annual Speech Contests key to creating powerful intents, and they unleash forward-
under the theme of “Connect to Contribute & Conquer”. moving velocity. Don’t waste your precious time, or theirs,
I have seen this all too often in my journey either in my on long boring conversations at lower levels.
work or in life. More noise always means more hours a 4. Level four: Energy conquers all. Energy and passion is
day working, but it doesn’t necessarily mean more the realm where all resonating connections truly unfold. If a
business or more productive connections. Leaders talk member doesn’t have it, or doesn’t show it, he or she will
convincingly about how successful people connect never be able to build deep connections and commitments
deeply with others at the highest of four levels, with less from leaders or team members. Everyone recognizes the
effort and more results: visible and verbal queues of energy.
1. Level one: Talk at the social level. Talk is the first of Leaders and members who understand how to connect with
four levels of communication. It is the surface of many people on all four levels are able to shape conversations
people experiences, and some people never get beyond with effortless grace and create infectious connections that
this level of relationship. They don’t engage with a are the key to business success in this age of relationships.
measure of skill and ease at this level, which inhibits any For many people, the hardest part of establishing
resonation at a deeper level. You need to move past this relationships effectively is dumping old habits, and learning
level quickly. to ignore some old myths and common beliefs.
2. Level two: Connect through personal power. Every Thank you for allowing me the privilege to pass this
member has personal knowledge and strengths, which message to each and every member in Division L Where
can get them past the social level in connection. These Leaders are made.
should include professional position, existing
relationships, specific expertise, professional appearance Best regards,
and passion for your cause or business. Use them
effectively. Abdullah A. Al Sharif, DTM
District 79 Director - (2015-2016)

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL Division L Conference 2017

DISTRICT 79 Connect Contribute Conquer

Central & Eastern Saudi Arabia
www.toastmasters.org;
www.district79.org

March 20, 2017

“ Each of us is a unique strand in the intricate web of life and here
to make a contribution.” – Deepak Chopra

One of the daunting questions that I continue to answer until now is “what legacy shall I leave earth?”. As most philosophers say, we live on a borrowed
time as death is a natural process creatures of this world will face. What positive contributions will you offer to those who stay? I agree with the
challenge to live your day as if it is the last. Why? Life is full of unexpected turns and twist, we never know what future holds for us. In this line, I
encourage readers to do their best in watching the words we utter, in the response to every situation we make, to maximize their best in every opportunity
that comes their way, to cure the ills of society – helplessness, ignorance, hatred, discrimination and a lot more. No, I do not encourage you to be
superheroes, just being a better person with values of respect, integrity, service and excellence intact can create a lifelong impact.

On the event of Division L Conference with the theme “Connect to Contribute & Conquer”, I salute the selfless leaders who keep on defining what
service leadership is.

I am humbled to congratulate the men and women who made this event come to life! The contests are special part of our program where we honor the
great amongst us! What makes us winners? Trophies & certificates will not make this world a better place but the impact & influence you give when you
deliver a rousing, compelling message from your speeches! Winning, therefore is touching lives!

As your PQD, I wish to impart that everyone of us holds a power to cause a change! Always carry our core values – Respect (even when majority breaks
the rule); Integrity (despite convenience fakes it); Service (amidst challenging & draining resources) and Excellence (even the rest settles for less). Using
these values are our guides will eventually lead us to potential opportunities of better understanding and effective learning. Is it when we contribute to
others’ success, we finally champion the cause of our existence.

Everyone in toastmasters can become a person who lifts up others. Start by caring and believing that you can add value in their lives!

Perform Quality Difference always!

Congratulations Division L Director TM Abdulaziz Al Sharekh, Contest Chair DTM Manivannan, area directors, role players and your
organizing team!

Respectfully yours, JAMES EDWARD S. TARUC

Distinguished Toastmaster
Program Quality Director – District 79

Division L Conference 2017

My Dear Division L Toastmasters Family! Connect Contribute Conquer

Greetings and Congratulations for your 2017 Division L Conference!

It is with great honor and pride to be part of your celebrations as one great family of
Toastmasters. I may not be physically present, but rest assured, I am with you in
spirit to proclaim greatness of your well-planned conference for this year. Indeed,
there is no boundary, area or distance that would separate us from one another. As
one big family, we are able to Connect to Contribute and Conquer!

Toastmasters is the best platform to learn things, to improve our communication and
leadership skills…in the most inexpensive way and in the most supportive and
friendly environment. This is the dream of our founding father, Dr. Ralph Smedley.

Members connect with each other with their speeches…learning from the motivating
and encouraging words of evaluation. Recognizing each and every effort a member
does in every stage of his journey….from the Ice Breaker speech until he becomes
Distinguished Toastmaster. And with the frequency of our meeting, we build a
bonding relationship akin to a family. A family where we can go to, whenever we
have problems. A Toastmasters family where we always seek support and advise; a
family that is always there beside us, with their helping and caring hands. A
Toastmaster family that would give the best wisdom we all need.

Indeed, A Club Today, is our Family Tomorrow! For no one else would be of great
help to us, except our family…our extended family…our own Toastmasters Family!

Once again, Congratulations to the Servant Leaders of Division L, spearheaded by
Mr. Division Director TM Abdulaziz Al Sharekh. Congratulations too to Mr.
Division L Conference Chair DTM Manivasakam Manivannan and his team. And a
big round, thunderous applause to Mr. Souvenir Magazine Chair TM Muhammad
Zakariya Babur and his team for having an E-Magazine that will surely be a legacy.

All the best! Rhic S. Briones, DTM
Sincerely, Club Growth Director
District 79 Western SA
Region 11
+966(0)568294338
@rhicbri

Division L Conference 2017

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PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE Division L Conference 2017

Recently, I got an opportunity to Connect Contribute Conquer
present a speech for our Elite club. My
initial response was, “Oh. It will be DTM Venkat Devrajan
just a cake walk”. To share with you,
after delivering more than forty Dear Friends, with this newly learned experience,
speeches Toastmasters International I started to revisit not only my past speeches and
had bestowed upon me the coveted also some of the past but precious moments of
title of Distinguished Toastmaster my life, in the new light of my improved wisdom
(DTM). The challenge was that, from and knowledge. The revelations were
this new pedestal when I looked back scintillating. My revised choices and decisions
at my past speeches even as a very were very different, this time around. We are
generous evaluator, I have found that advised that we should always learn from our
there was not a room but a Burj experiences, but truly speaking we will learn
Khalifa of improvement. After more by revisiting our past experiences with our
carefully browsing my archive, When newly acquired skills of reasoning, understanding
I finally shortlisted one of my past and the resultant maturity.
speeches for the event, the speech was
crying aloud for a huge facelift and My life is evolving every day on this exciting
makeover. While redrafting the speech journey of re-discovering my relationships and
I had bursts of laughter on the thought priorities. Today, I feel that with this level of
that how I had drafted and delivered renewed wisdom prevailing in the past, my life
that speech in my initial year of would have been on a totally new path. But I am
Toastmasters and how empathetic my glad that I had got an opportunity to detour to
audience were to a fellow human revisit important aspects of my life. Every
being. Truly, it was an enlightening Toastmaster believes that a speech can change a
and at the same time a humbling life or lives and who knows one of your past
experience for a public speaker. The speeches or experiences with your renewed self,
lesson learnt was that with the Life can change your present and future for the better.
continues so our speeches should As long as you live, keep learning how to live.
evolve.

Division L Conference 2017

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Message from Division L Director

TM Abdul Aziz Al Sharekh,

Dear leaders of the District -79 and fellow Toastmasters of the Jubail
Toastmasters fraternity, it gives me immense pleasure and happiness to
welcome you all to the Annual Conference of Division-L. The conference
this year will be unique in many ways as you will see on display many new
faces both in the contests and in the organization of the conference. The
Division L leadership and the ex-com decided to hand the responsibility of
this year’s conference to a young and dynamic team, a team that believes in
taking the challenge and accomplishing things under difficult conditions.
though the team just had less than two months to plan execute and conduct
this grand conference, I am sure you will join me in acknowledging that the
team had done a marvelous job to complete all the activities of the
conference on time and with the same finesse and quality that one would
always attach to any Division L conference.

I take this opportunity to congratulate the Conference team for their
dedication and hard work to make this conference a reality and I welcome
you all as the host of this conference and wish you all an enjoyable
experience…

Message from Conference Chair Division L Conference 2017

Connect Contribute Conquer

DTM Manivannan
Chair, Division L Conference 2017

Message from Conference Vice Chair Division L Conference 2017

Connect Contribute Conquer

A Journey of Personal Growth… Meshal Alanazi Throughout these years, I have been
Vice Chair, Division L exposed to so many learning experiences
When I first joined Toastmasters platform, Conference 2017 that helped me develop both communication
I always heard that part of the mission and leadership skills. From delivering
statement that includes “fostering personal speeches, to taking different roles at the
growth” as a promise for the members of club level, area level, and division level, to
this organization. I was attracted by this being a test speaker in a division level
mission, however, I wanted to test it contest, to participating in organizing
through my own experience. Speaking after division conference… and many more
eight years of my membership in this opportunities. All of these opportunities
organization, I can say it successfully have contributed to my personal growth.
passed my test. Above all, I believe that the biggest win in
I joined Toastmasters organization in 2009. this experience is the number of good
At that time, I primarily wanted to develop friends I’ve made while enjoying this
my communication skills. My goal was journey. In fact, I consider them as brothers
simple; who can be counted on when in need. As
to be able to stand up in front of any group the title of this article suggests, the journey
of of toastmasters is truly a journey of personal
people and deliver a good speech with a growth; not only because of the skills that
good one could acquire but because of the so
message. I remember very well my early many growth opportunities that can be
days and the environment in which I was in. utilized.
It was an environment of good people who
gathered to support each other for almost
the same goal.
Today, I can confidently and safely say that
this Toastmastering experience has been
one of the most enriching and fulfilling
experience I’ve ever had.

Division L Conference 2017 Connect Contribute Conquer

Message from Division E Director

Toastmaster Movement, Toastmaster’s platform is being always meaning
a never ending Journey.. full to learn and practice communication and
leadership skills. This is due to the foresight of
Necessity is the mother of invention. During very our organizational leadership efforts to upgrade
early 1900 the YMCA (Young Men's Christian toastmaster educational program to the
Association) in Bloomington, Illinois, United requirements. The new change to face the current
States felt the need of training to their members for learning challenges is being done through
communication and organizing function during DTM Azizuddin Siddiqui “Pathways”.
their events. This need was accepted as challenge
by Dr. Ralph C. Smedly. Now more and more members are coming
forward to learn and with an open heart to
Our founder Dr. Ralph C. Smedley started this contribute in the society. Today many people
movement way back in early 1905 with first wish to contribute to the society but they did not
unofficial meeting. The first official club meeting get the opportunity or right platform.
was conducted in 22nd October 1924. The tag line Toastmasters provide the platform where you can
“Where Leaders Are Made” attracted people from learn and contribute.
all around the world and now this movement is
spread over 142 countries with a membership of For District 79 and for Toastmasters Movement
over 350,000. in Saudi Arabia, the fact that we have a “World
Champion” of our own is a massively significant
With the cultural development and business moment. The smooth branching out to the new
challenges the attributes of communicator and District 104 appears to be just another milestone
leader have been significantly changed. This in this Journey, which reminds me of the old
change is a continuous process. We have saying, “Like a tree we each must find a place to
witnessed this shift in paradigm during last 3 to 4 grow and branch out”.
decades in our life. We have seen emerging
leaders with new charisma. The conference theme “Connect to contribute
& conquer” eco the values of toastmasters. The
caravan moves on, The Journey continues ….

Division L Conference 2017

Traits of A Leader Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Connect Contribute Conquer

What is leadership? Most of these traits tie directly into S. Koteeswaran, DTM
“Leadership is the art of leading others to deliberately create emotional intelligence (EQ). Leaders with
a result that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.” high EQ are intrinsically more self-aware. Leadership, Communication
They understand their mental processes and and the World of Toastmasters
The Characteristics of a Good Leader know how to direct themselves. They’re Leadership communication skills
What makes a good leader? Here are some of their most more in touch with what they’re deeply often focus on the recipient of
important characteristics: passionate about. They naturally care more your message. Learning how to
• Self-Awareness: for others and receive more compassion in motivate and inspire action in
You have an intimate knowledge of your inner emotional return. They’re more socially in tune. team members is an acquired
state. You know your strengths and your weaknesses. You skill. Like any skill worth
know when you’re working in flow and you know when having, it requires an investment
you’re over worked. You know yourself, including your of practice and coaching and the
capabilities and your limitations, which allows you to push dividends are invaluable.
yourself to your maximum potential. Mastering leadership
• Self-Direction: communication skills can
You’re able to direct yourself effectively and powerfully. improve your effectiveness and
You know how to get things done, how to organize tasks and showcase a high level of
how to avoid procrastination. You know how to generate business acumen.
energy for projects, to calm yourself when angered. You can
make decisions quickly when necessary, but can also slow to
consider all the options on the table.
• Vision:
You’re working towards a goal that’s greater than yourself. It
could be something small, like the success of the team, or a
larger vision like world peace. Working towards a vision is
far more inspiring than working towards personal gain.
• Ability to Motivate:
Leaders don’t lead by telling people what they have to do.
Instead, leaders cause people to want to help them. A key
part of this is cultivating your own desire to help others.
When others sense that you want to help them, they in turn
want to help you.
• Social Awareness:
Understanding social networks and key influencers in that
social network is another key part of leadership. Who in the
organization has the most clout, both officially and
unofficially? Who moves the hearts of the group?

Division L Conference 2017

The Leadership Excellence Series Better Speaking Series Connect Contribute Conquer

Leadership Excellence Series is a set of modules that The Better Speaker Series is a set of educational speeches on

teach members the skills they will need to be successful speaking-related topics. Each module provides practical tips

leaders inside and outside of Toastmasters. Each module that can be of benefit to all members. Included in the

takes about 10 minutes that can be personalized. program are a script outlining the module. Each module is
• The Visionary Leader
• Developing a Mission designed to be presented as a 10 - 15 minute speech.
• Values and Leadership
• Goal Setting and Planning • Beginning Your Speech
• Delegate to Empower
• Building a Team • Concluding Your Speech
• Giving Effective Feedback
• The Leader as a Coach • Controlling Your Fear
• Motivating People
• Service and Leadership • Impromptu Speaking
• Resolving Conflict
• Selecting Your Topic

• Know Your Audience

• Organizing Your Speech

• Creating an Introduction

• Preparation and Practice

• Using Body Language

Modules Leadership Series Modules Better Speaking Series

Just Be Yourself. Division L Conference 2017

On this grand occasion of the Division- L Conference, Connect Contribute Conquer
I am enthralled to witness the releasing of the Division
Magazine. First of all let me take this opportunity to Being true to oneself brings out the best in you
congratulate the entire Conference team for such a which helps to transform yourself to a better
wonderful initiative and I am sure that this will go a human being. Anything you do, just ask your
long way in inspiring the Toastmasters in Jubail. Kudos inner self is it the right action that I am
to the entire Division Conference team. supposed to do. Be it setting your goal or
On this occasion, I am reminded of the famous quote achieving your goal.
by E.E.Cummings, an American poet, painter, essayist, Being true to oneself helps us accomplish the
author, and playwright “It takes Courage to grow up task passionately, and when we do something
and turn out to be who you really are“. In short Just with great passion, we give our cent percent to
be yourself. whatever we do and when we give our cent
Just Be Yourself. It sounds simple, sweet and percent, the results are amazing.
reassuring. Right? But what does it mean to be The best part is that when we are true to our
yourself? How can you be anyone but yourself when self, we feel Comfortable, we manage
you possess one mind, one body, and if you choose to situations easily, we are not trying to impress
believe one unique beautiful soul? anyone, we are not worried about being
There is no one way to be yourself. There are many judged, our muscles are relaxed, we breathe
ways. So perhaps a better way to look at it is how to be easily, we concentrate better on the task at
always true to oneself. Being true to oneself is not a hand, we make confident decisions. So, Just
onetime event. It is a constant decision you make every Be Yourself.
day, every hour or even every second. Sometimes you Congratulations to the Editorial, Education &
make good decisions. Sometimes you learn. Sometimes Training committee for the excellent drive and
you are true to yourself. Sometimes you betray your inspiration that resulted in the release of this
true self. magnificent newsletter.
Whatever you do, don’t beat yourself up, don’t berate Keep inspiring us, Good Luck
yourself, and don’t forget that it takes courage to be
true to who you are in a world that is in such a hurry to Murali Krishnan
measure you up and judge you at every turn. But also Area Director, Area - 29
know this: whoever you are, you have got that courage.

Division L Conference 2017 We develop an unbiased love for vintage and Connect Contribute Conquer
trending experiences. In our speeches, we love to
Beyond the bounds recall our childhood days of sweet innocence. DTM Dr. R.J. George
We like to share with the audience moments of Advisor, Educational,
When I set out on a journey, nothing but blissful ignorance. Nonetheless, we like to have Training and Editorial
the destination looms large. When I am on trending experiences propelling our
an assignment, it is the deadline that I chase presentations.
as I am loath to push the time bounds. Even What we gain never goes in vain. We see and
as I share my views with readers, there are measure our rising learning curves. We learn
many looking forward to the end of the life skills in immersion. We learn to practice
year to enjoy their well-earned holiday. self-effacing simplicity, lend our ears to others,
When we kick off an endeavor, the end is and pep up sagging spirits of friends and fellow
always in view. Our activities are directed toastmasters when lows threaten to get the better
towards goals whether we like the idea or of them. Our lives turn into incredible stories
not. which we share with others, and in the process
However, Toastmasters is a peregrination we hone our story telling skills.
we have started out on, recently or
remotely, with no end in view. We have No man can be an island of joy. Even an
witnessed milestones, but not the end of the archipelago of isolated islands can’t ensure the
trek. The journey is on. We may joy of living. Only close-knit groups of
occasionally unburden ourselves of our individuals and their closer physical proximity
backpacks to have a rest, but soon the can. No other forum has helped as so much as
journey resumes. It transcends all the limits Toastmasters to expand our social network. Our
that time and space seek to impose on us. list of acquaintances that includes even children
This journey defies age, and sees some of keeps expanding. A rare diversity unites us,
the best journeyers among sexagenarians adding flavors to our lives. We are on a terra
and septuagenarians. firma – hence the constancy of the journey with
no limits in view. We defy the defined bounds
What makes this journey untiring is its known as communication and leadership skills,
uniqueness. The opportunities this journey and head into a world of holistic learning that the
offers are hard to say no to. Besides being a game of life calls for.
friendly and favorable environment to hone
our communication and leadership skills in, To conclude, let’s not let manageable
Toastmasters presents to us a melting pot of distractions coerce us into backing away from
cultures, and a meeting point of giving and this world of delight. Let’s reach out to as many
gaining. A few years into the journey, we people as we can be trying to draw them to the
become competent connoisseurs of magic
delicacies that belong to cultures other than that we have been enjoying. Let’s measure up to
ours. Our rigidity gives way to flexibility the spirit of Toastmasters by caring and sharing.
with an amazing attitude adjustment.

Division L Conference 2017

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Power to Connect Sushil Agrawal, DTM

Think About Your Power, Believe In Your Power, Be Your Power - said
by Dan Keating

There is a power in the universe. This energy resides in everything and
exists everywhere. The energy is in each one of us and is available right
now to anyone who wishes to use it. It is limitless. There is enough for all to
use as much as we choose. When we combine this energy and connect with
people around us it creates a positive mental attitude, the outcome is a pure
joy.

This power can be used to accomplish anything you desire. You can
change and improve relationships, grades, career, money situations,
speaking skills etc. With group participation you can influence the outcome
of group goals. You can improve the profitability of corporations and even
effect world peace. The power to connect works on any scale, no matter
how big or small.

The universal law of imagination states: that whatever the mind can imagine
can be accomplished. We are all, alone or in groups, much more powerful
than we presently believe. All of us can accomplish more for ourselves
when we choose to do so and apply the universal laws. Toastmasters is one
such group where you can exercise power to connect with group of people,
society, and world to accomplish positive results.

I urge you to use your power and your journey with others in a positive
manner. By increasing the positive energy of our world and the universe,
we can together make our Toastmasters journey more joyful, peaceful and
loving. Connect and concept powerfully with people to contribute and
conquer this universe.

Division L Conference 2017

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Preparation, A Key Success Division L Conference 2017

“A Key to success is preparation, if you are not prepared to succeed, Connect Contribute Conquer
which means you are prepared, not to succeed”.
Syed Waheed Lateef Proper preparation consists of writing
Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance is known as the 5Ps of Chief Ambassador the speech. Good speakers never read
principles. Just writing a speech does not make you prepared. I have Pathways Learning Experience their speeches, but great speakers
always believed that the attribute of a good speech comes from Toastmasters International always write their speeches. Know
painstaking preparation of it. 80 percent of effective learning in District - 79 & 104 exactly what you want to say. Have
Toastmasters is how to research, organize, edit and rehearse your speech your speech written out as if you are
according to the guidelines and objectives of the project outlined in the going to present it and have the
educational manual. Very often we tend concentrate on the delivery of speech summarized with all of the
our prepared speech in front of an audience which accounts only about major points.
20 percent of the learning in Toastmasters. Sometimes we tend to totally
overlook critical objectives such as gestures or vocal variety and prepare Say your speech out loud (not just to
a speech which provides little scope for exhibiting them. We must yourself). The spoken word and the
constantly remind ourselves that getting rid of the stage fear is the only written word are very different. A
one among the many things in our learning curve in Toastmasters. speech that may look good on paper
may not sound good when you say it
Toastmasters, is an overall personality development program. To succeed out loud. If you write your speech
as a public speaker, you don't have to control the behavior of your and then say it out loud it has the
audience. There are certain things you do need to control--your own benefit of both helping you to
thoughts, your preparation and organized delivery of ideas—counts the remember the speech but also gives
foremost. you the opportunity to rewrite when
saying it out loud could be improved.

Following the simple formula of
preparation, practice, practice, and
more practice will surely give you an
edge over others and help you to
speak like a professional. Remember
that preparation extends beyond
having a pencil and paper but it
means that you must have a pattern
and plan and more importantly you
must be committed to that plan.

Divine Service Connect Contribute Conquer

“Education is the most powerful Ismail Alaqra
weapon, which you can use to change
the world”. Nelson Mandela Director AlHussan Education
Jubail International Schools
Learning is a beautiful combination of
formal and informal education. Educating Toastmasters International in general
people is a divine service. Schools and and Jubail Toastmasters Fraternity in
institutes are playing vital role to provide specific are doing a divine service to
formal education and trying to meet the humanity by sponsoring Gavel Clubs
academic needs of everyday changing and Youth Leadership Programs for
world. Schools are imparting global youth and Toastmasters Clubs for
curriculums in fully equipped classrooms adults.
by trained educators to the very smart Since two years, we have been partners
learners. Schools inculcate values, with the Elite Toastmasters Club. Elite
traditions, and cultural harmony, TMC has sponsored AlHussan
communication and public speaking skills Internationals Schools Elite Gavel Club,
in their curriculums as well. The common which is adding value to the lives of
objective of all schools is to produce many students. Every year, our students
skillful quality human beings for the better join Elite Youth Leadership Program
tomorrow. and getting transformed into more
This is not only the responsibility of disciplined and self-motivated
Educational Institutes, but parents and individuals. It has been observed that
community both are equally responsible Gaveliers and Youth Leaders do not
and main stakeholders. All stakeholders are only possess leadership and public
playing their role, but I was amazed to see speaking skills but also produce good
the contribution of Toastmasters results in their examinations.
International Organization towards society.
The passionate toastmasters are selfless
human beings, connecting with the people
of all ages and contributing their time to
help them conquer their gloss phobia and
improve their communication, public
speaking and leadership skills
empathetically.

Division L Conference 2017

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Birds Flying Improvement Program

Similar to Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program,
once there was a Birds Flying Improvement Program (BIFIP). Several
birds were interviewed and inducted in BIFIP. Peacock, Rooster, Dove,
Sparrow, Kite, Eagle, Vulture, Hummingbird were among them. Aim
of the program was to “Improve Flying Skills of the Participants”.

The program started with Ice Breaker performances. Each one of them
gave presentation about themselves; especially their strengths.

Dove told that in ancient times he used to give postal service! The
rooster mentioned that he tried to wake people up at the dawn. The
vulture said that he ate carcasses that helps keep environment clean.
The eagle said, he flew high in the sky.

Mentors started helping all the participants of BIFIP. Every day they all
practiced hard to improve their flying skills. At every BIFIP meeting
constant improvement was seen in their flying skills.

A Grand Finale was organized at the end of BIFIP. A competition was
held to showcase the flying skills learnt during BIFIP. In spite of so
much of hard work by other birds, Eagle emerged as the winner by a
huge margin. Though Kite bagged runner-up trophy, it became little
nervous for not beating the Eagle. The sparrow became sad as there
was no way to fly high like the winners.

A few days after, they noticed that the smaller birds had gained a lot
compared to the winners! The dove could now fly with twice the speed.
The sparrow was able to fly much higher than before. Even the rooster
was easily able to cross-river!

When it comes to Toastmasters YLP, it is the absolute progress that

matters the most. Each Youth Leader has unique personality. It is not

possible for peacock to fly like eagle. But the peacock has its own
strengths and beauty that the eagle doesn’t.

Being oneself and developing is more important than being like

someone else. TM Surendra Chari

Division L Conference 2017

Connect Contribute Conquer

TM Musthafa P. Mohamed TM Palani Raj
Chair – PR & Media Chair – Registration
Youth Leadership Program
Social Media Content

If you’ve ever had to take a Speech or Debate class in school or 
meeting, you probably learned some basic tenets like “Know your 
material,” and “Practice your speech ahead of time so that you don’t trip 
over your words.” 

Basic tips for giving speeches can also be applied to your social media
content. No, you don’t have to practice your tweets in front of a mirror
or picture all of your readers in their table, but keeping some of these
tips in mind can make your content better.

Know the audience…There are tons of social media sites out there
today. And while you may find the most success with just two or three
of them, it is important to keep in mind that as much as there will be
overlap between them, there will also be people who only interact with
your brand through one site. Tailor your message accordingly. Do you
get the most interaction on Twitter during the week? Is Facebook really
active in the evenings? There are reasons for this. Getting to know who
is where and why will let you craft more effective content.

Realize that people want you to succeed… Everyone uses social
media for different reasons, but ultimately, everyone wants information
that is pertinent to them and at least a little entertaining. A source that
clearly knows its stuff and can disseminate information in an easy-to-
absorb way, with both respect and levity, will earn the support of its
fans. And the fans will help propel success.

Division L Conference 2017

“Alone, we can do so little: Connect Contribute Conquer
together we can do so much.”
To achieve the beauty of creative leadership excellence, following Cs are essential:
-- Helen Keller
1. Connect
The collective effort Ants depicts the importance of strong
from team members with effective connection between the members in the
leadership can meet any team which
challenges and gain success in
life. A successful leader should can meet any challenges in life. Members form a
be creative to inspire the team. strong connection between the link which can take
Creative leadership is very any loads which seems to be impossible with
effective to achieve the individually. Likewise, a creative leader is well
objectives. The creative connected with their links. They nurture the teams
leadership is attributed to many from birth to maturity. If a leader is well connected
qualities. But we can concise the to others, he can create, inspire, prepare and direct.
essence of creative leadership in Toastmasters are well connected in multi-level
to three Cs. platforms such as club, area, division, district etc. to
meet any challenges.
They are
1. Connect 2. Contribute 3. Conquer
2. Contribute Every member in ants group are contributing Ants conquer the big task with strong
3. Conquer. connection and sincere contribution from
their best to achieve the target. But sincere efforts all
Challenges are always an from all members are mandatory for the success of
opportunity to overcome it. Good the team. Collective contribution will lead to result. members in the group. It is big example from
connection and better contribution The abilities of each member in the groups are the nature. If we approach the task
can certainly lead you to conquer versatile and different. To achieve the beauty of individually, challenges may be unachievable.
any challenges in front of you. creative leadership excellence, all members in the But a good connection and sincere
Creative leadership is evident in team has to contribute their best. The sincere contribution among the team members can
nature also. Let me correlate the contribution from toastmasters are the real beauty conquer any tough challenges in life.
ideal creative leadership Cs from to meet any tough challenges in journey.
small ants to human beings. The
ants are capable to conquer the Connect Contribute Conquer
big challenges through good
connection and right contribution
among the team.

“Unity is the real strength for creative leadership” TM BIJU CR
PERIYAR TOASTMASTERS CLUB

Tea Party Division L Conference 2017

TM Nandakumar At the entrance the headmaster was standing with its Connect Contribute Conquer
Chairman- Awards team of detectives to check all the students entering
It was August 15th the Independence the school as per terms and conditions given for that A paper plate contains 2 Masalvada and mixture was
day of India, our small government school in kadaloore day. Those who met the conditions up to 50% were served to all students. As the policy of schools no one
district of Tamilnadu was furor in welcoming the District admitted and those failed were sent back to home. As should start eating till the last student get the snacks.
Collector of Kadalore for Flag hoisting ceremony. The per the conditions of our village, If they look for Time was running. The first one looked at the vada and
appearance our schools was completely changed within a 100% requirement then 10 to 15 students only can ate the smell of that. Every one eagerly looked at
week upon confirmation of Collector’s arrival from his enter the school. It was well known to them. Headmasters instruction to eat. Finally got the green
office. signal form headmaster. It’s not justified to explain the
Around 10 lines were formed by one of our teacher scenario as the students were on the verge of eating all at
Our regular gymnastic events were missing on that day. and told to stand on straight lines. All the one attempt. Hardly every one took two bits only. The
We usually practice high jump at the entrance due to the arrangements were done by 8.00 am. All the students siren sound just stopped all of their actions in a fraction
sewage water passing like the river Ganges with its started chatting with each other. One asked the other of second. The head master rushed along with his team
branches and we jump between these branches. The broken “Will the collector come on time?” next one replied and pulled all the students and told them to rush to the
compound wall gives admission to all the cows to enter the “should be”. Another one told “ What are all the ground immediately as collector arrived. Few students
school without any fee and attendance. It enjoys the items in tea party” one more replied “ Hi, I saw literally cried as they never tasted this kind of snacks in
garbage thrown by our beloved village people along with Masalvada, Mixture and three big cans full of tea” their life. Few begged the detectives to allow them to
its friend’s likely crow, cat, rat and pigs around the school. other one “wow. Excellent. I pray god to send the have one more bite of vada. Nothing admitted. All the
The giant rat chasing the cats for its greedy thought of collector immediately” Time passed and the wrist students were thrown on the ground and lined in the
catching him is some unbelievable hunting scenes were our watch of headmaster shown 9.00 AM. He was order as done earlier.
entertainment. Like there are many. In total our school was eagerly looked at the entrance. No sign of collector’s
an adventures park for all animals along with us. arrival!!!. The white Ambassador car arrived on the ground. The
headmaster and other masters rushed to the car and
All the above were missing within this one week due to the The punishment of sun started. The ground slowly greeted the collector. With a tough face the collector got
collector’s arrival. It was informed by our class teacher a geared up with heat. Those who don’t have slippers down from the car and walked toward the flag post.
week back. We were not interested on collector’s arrival started changing their legs. The entire request for When he looked at the top a drop of water hit on his
but the next statement made by our class teacher was the passing urine/standing aside was rejected by the spectacle. Followed by a thunder. An unexpected rain
angler for our attraction. That was the tea party after flag detectives as the arrival of collector was expected at started. The collector rushed towards the car and with no
hoisting. All the class students decided to attend the school any moment. Now the sun reached to 75 degree from time the car just exit the compound of the school.
on August 15th only for this tea party. Within this week all east to show the time as 11.00 AM. One student at
the department in government hunted our school and the 8th row fainted as he didn’t take his breakfast. He Forgetting all the previous disappointments all the
changed the look of our school. The adventures park was taken by the detectives aside. One of our students enjoyed the rain and started running towards
becomes a beautiful garden temporarily. We have been favorite Tamil master requested the headmaster for a their home. The Masalvada and can full of tea got cold
informed to come to school with uniform properly ironed break and also to issue the snacks and tea to boost up on that day but my heart is getting heat by remembering
with combed hair, nails cut and with slippers. Time of flag the students. With great struggle he succeeded and that irresponsible collector who don’t live in the world
hoisting was at 9.00 AM. But we were informed to be in even sun felt sorry about his merciless actions and of reality.
school by 7.30 AM. reduced his intensity. It also requested wind to give
smothering breeze for the students. With great joy all “Always poor people are the victims of Irresponsibility.
student entered the class rooms to have snacks. Let us not entertain”

Division L Conference 2017

The minute you made your mind and joined a Toastmaster club, it is the Connect Contribute Conquer

minute you begin realizing happiness through giving in nurturing & Madhu Sudhan
fostering both of Communication & Leadership skills in every individual Chair - Hospitality
you would meet. This is what I could identify as a motive that keep all of
Toastmasters around each other and devoting part of their busy schedules Stick to your target
to support clubs.
During our journey in India on a running train
Although Division conference is an annual event, My 8-year-old boy once asked me after seeing out of
every year there is new things that make it another the train’s window …
learning opportunity in the path of Toastmasters. I got a “Dad, look at the trees/buildings/people are going
call from Conference Vice Chairman while I am waiting for a flight in Taif behind!”
airport. To be frank, I spent part of the flying time, putting list of activities This was also the question I asked my dad during this
and looking forward to the first meeting. A room with full house of age, so I smiled and as few others sitting nearby also
enthusiastic members surrounded with one goal “Successful Division did…
Gathering”. I smiled and said the same that my dad told “ Son, as
we are moving towards our target and very fast so we
On my personal level, I was involved in arranging couple of events and just leave behind many things unnoticed and which are
invited to speak at promptly. I founded myself getting things planned unknown to us, but once we reach the target we start
naturally. The only answer I was giving to those who wondered after seeing things around and which will be well known.
thanking Allah, I am a “Toastmaster member” Moral of the story is “Stick to your target and keep
focused only then you will achieve it”, no matter if this
As I lead a new role in my carrier “Marketing Committee Chairman” for journey hides many things around.
Division L Conference, I found myself surrounded by other colleagues who Thank you and wish you all a great success in your
extend their support and dedication. Such team spirit provides great future journey.
opportunity for further learning by doing with no possibility of failures.
The team will not allow it to happen. Indeed it is a challenge on all as I can
see as we come closer and closer to the Day. However, it is a challenge that
makes the success, if Allah permits, a memorable moment.

So, if you are a toastmaster member, do not prevent your passion from
going through new experiences. If not, do not wait further and join next
available club.

Welcome all to the conference and wish you enjoy and benefit from all…..

TM Majed A. Al-Shangiti, Ma’aden TM RAK1 Club President

Division L Conference 2017

MOST PRECIOUS GIFT OF THE NATURE TM Sivadas MB Connect Contribute Conquer
Chair - Finance Eireen Jess Shibu
Usage of Water is equally alarming like Population Growth
and can you think of living without water? However, I would suggest five points to
The human body contains from 55% to 78% water, depending conserve water and use it properly.
on body size. To function properly, the body requires between
approx five liters of water per day to avoid dehydration. The Rain Water Harvesting
requirement of water depends on the level of activity,
temperature, humidity, and other factors. Most of this is ingested Take initiative to make the pits and tanks for
through foods or beverages other than drinking straight water. rain water harvesting in own living premises.
Safe drinking water is essential to humans and other life forms.
Access to safe drinking water has improved over the last decades Protect Trees and Forest
in almost every part of the world, but approximately one billion
people still lack access to safe water and over 2.5 billion lack Never encourage the cutting of trees. Instead
accesses to water for adequate sanitation. There is a clear everybody should plant at least one tree for
correlation between access to safe water and GDP per future generation.
capita. However, some observers have estimated that by 2025
more than half of the world population will be facing water- Prevent wastage of Water
based vulnerability.
We are in the habit of open the water tap while
My dear friends, discovery of water entering the bath room and it will be remain
presence in MARS was a radical change in thinking the ON till coming out. The tap will be on while
existence of living presence in Mars. Scientists are encouraged brushing, shaving etc. Please try to stop this
for the research to find out the presence of life in Mars, as the habit. Each drop of water is precious.
first live being has appeared in water called Amoeba.
Although oil is an essential commodity in 20th century, water Conserve Water Resources
will take over this place in 21st century. As per the report of
World Natural Resources institute, Washington, the Please do not encourage the sand filling of
consumption of water is double than the growth of population. fields, ponds, lakes etc. Protect them.
Observers say that the reason for Third world war will be due to
water dispute. I wish that it should not happen. Reduce Industrial Pollution
By 2025, Consumption of water for developing countries will be
increased by 50 percentages, developing countries will be 18 Stop the practice of waste water channels of
percentage and undeveloped countries will be negligible. If the industry to water sources like river, lake, sea
usage of water increased like that, water available in the earth etc.
will not be sufficient for current population by 2050. So Fellow TMs & friends, do you think
The 97.5 % of water available in earth is salty and only 2.5 % is water is the most precious gift of the nature,
drinking water. But out of this 2.5% of drinking water, 2/3 conserve water for all of us, as well as for
portion is in ice form. This is a big challenge for human beings. the future generation.
Now, 100 crores peoples are struggling for drinking water and
250 crores of peoples are struggling for sanitation water. In
Saudi Arabia, water is more precious than petrol.
The mortality rate of children in this world is alarmingly high
due to waterborne diseases. Availability of clean water becomes
a nightmare. If we analyze the total consumption of water, only
8 % is used for home usage, 70 % is used for Irrigation and 22 %
is used for Industrial usage.

Division L Conference 2017

Connect Contribute Conquer

Message from Editorial Desk

STRETCH BEYOND YOUR COMFORT ZONE

I am just back from a much-awaited, three-week Shibu Xavier
trip from Malaysia… and it has truly been an eye- Vice Chair – Educational and Editorial
opening and inspirational journey for me.
I am fascinated by the sights and sounds as well as Despite the shopkeeper’s most enthusiastic
the fragrances and flavors that Malaysia has to assurance and the store’s glitzy look, the shop
offer to its eager travelers. didn’t stock the exact Sword I was looking for.
During my visit, I had a fantastic time touring the After hours of searching on the shiny, broad
length and breadth of the country. streets, a small, shabby-looking store in a
Whether it was the food-enriched streets of back-alley beckoned.
Penang, or the crystal waters of Langkawi… the With a little bit of hesitation,
Dutch-infused culture of Malacca or the shopping I ventured in, not knowing what
streets of Kuala Lumpur… each of these exotic I was to find. The store- keeper seemed crude,
destinations captured a special place in my heart. the lights were dim, and the shopping
During my visit to Penang, I went in search of experience didn’t seem too promising.
souvenirs to bring back home to India. An item in However, as soon as I walked… lo and behold,
particular that I went in search of was a Samurai I found the exact Sword I had been searching
Sword. hours for!
I wandered into a rich-looking shop on the main This experience taught me that, as speakers
street. At first glance, it seemed to store just about and leaders, we have to venture beyond our
everything that one was hoping to find as a comfort zone, for sometimes the treasure we
Malaysian keep-sake. so dearly seek, will appear in a place we
The shopkeeper, too, promised the customers who least expect it!
walked in, all kinds of trinkets to satisfy the What treasure are you seeking? And where
keenest seeker of souvenirs. will you find it?
I walked in with high expectations but, very soon, Well, you will only receive the answer to that,
left disappointed. when you’re ready to walk into unknown
alleyways and be surprised with what you find!
Happy Discovering!

Division L Conference 2017

A Lot ! All the stories she narrated to me Connect Contribute Conquer
when I was young were from her own
“Do you agree that life is an life experience, lessons that she had Hrishikesh Murali
adventure?” learnt the hard way. One important Vice Chair PR & Media
Yes……it is very eventful and as message she taught me was that life is
every day passes, we get closer and an adventure and like any other There is no chance of going back to the old life again. During
closure to the end of this adventure? adventure story, it moves very fast. If our life, we live almost addicted to possessions, our sole
we as actors in this adventure do not purpose in life becomes to possess more. Yet, no-one can
Let me share an incident with you… play our roles, we lose the opportunity take his wealth with him to the grave. Think of everything
During my childhood days my forever. Her advice was, “Make the that you are able to do right now. The only asset one can take
grandmother used to tell us lot of bed best out of today, for we do not know with him when one dies is the legacy he leaves behind, the
time stories, mostly from he own what would happen tomorrow”. memories of the deeds that he had done in the minds of
imagination. On my last vacation I others.
visited her. She was 95 then. Her We all are here for a short stay in this
memory had become very poor, world. The question that we need to The best things in life are priceless. Enjoy the little things,
bones had become weak and she was ask ourselves is that what can we do to because one day you may look back and discover, those were
bed ridden. She couldn’t speak and make our life meaningful and more the big things. Never let your mind become so crowded with
could take only liquid food. I sat near eventful, to be productive and to leave worry, give space for fun and joy. Make sure what you are
her, holding her hands …. Tears behind good memories in the minds of doing today is worthwhile and important because you are
were rolling down from her eyes and people. exchanging a day of your life for it.
I realized that she had recognized
me… A day later she passed away The answer is A LOT !!... Henry Cloud once said “Good days give you happiness, bad
but the scene is still etched deep in days give you experience, and the worst days give you the
my memory. We remember her, for best lessons.”
the enriched life that she had led and If someone laughs at you for being different, laugh back at
the richness that she brought into the them for being the same.
lives of all those around her. We are lucky enough to have something that makes you
Born in a very poor family, as a different from everybody else.
child she was thrown into domestic
work much against her will. Instead Follow this simple rule, Live and Let Live by always carrying
of books and pencils, she was given a positivity with us !
the broom and mop and had to do a We can do A Lot, to make our life more meaningful, more
lot of hard work right from her thrilling, more useful to others and above all more
childhood. Despite this, she kept adventurous.
speaking to people around,
understood what was happening
around and with her sheer common
sense gained a lot of practical
wisdom.

When India and Pakistan achieved something…..TOGETHER!! Division L Conference 2017

It was last year; my biology After a looooooong wait, Yes, that was it! I had to “Misbah, finally there is something that
teacher announced that we they finally understood and convince her for the help! With
needed to collect let me go, mainly because my communication skills India and Pakistan could achieve, Connect Contribute Conquer
5 specimens for a practical my flight was already on the developed after long years at TOGETHER!”
experiment. We had 3 months of tarmac and I had to make it Toastmasters,
vacation to fast! Though I finally kick started the Isn’t it so true? Don’t you think that if
complete it, but like any other I crossed the checking at conversations. I told her about
typical youngster, I paid no heed Rajiv Gandhi International my problem, and took a long these two nations come together,
to it and Airport, I knew there time to convince her (as she, of
enjoyed my vacation wouldn’t be anyone to course, had her own forgetting the past (which no one can
immensely, completely understand me at the King doubts….), but she finally
oblivious of my project. And Fahd Airport! I knew I had agreed. But then, disaster change but just reflect on) and embrace
then I finally recollected it, to do something before struck. She told me that she
just two days before my I reached there, if I wanted was from Pakistan! Now, each other without any rivalry, greed and
scheduled return to my specimens to not go to there was no way double – dealing, how much more each
KSA! I freaked out! I knew Kunooz! I was travelling I could introduce her as my
I was not going to get any in alone and felt miserable! cousin (as I had initially of them can achieve and prosper! War
KSA, so I had to I recollected an observation planned), as how awkward it
do it in India, and fast! Since, I had made long back at a would look, brother being and conflict can only bring bloodshed
I had no time to go on an insect checkpoint in KSA. You Indian and cousin a Pakistani!
hunt; I decided could do anything, carry any Gosh, that was disastrous! We and mourning to both sides, not
to become a hoaxer and bought stuff in KSA, but if you thought for a while, but then
5 specimens from a nearby have a female with you, decided to introduce ourselves development and happiness. It can only
laboratory. But the worst was NO ONE IS GONNA as class mates! Finally, there
yet to come. STOP YOU! I realized that we were, at the King Fahd bring tears and anger, not brotherhood
No one told me that I cannot I needed someone I could International Airport Luggage
take these on a flight! show as a relative as in checking! We walked in and peace. It can bring only hatred,
Completely unaware of it, KSA. I was in flight, together, the officer stared at
I packed them and with a light looking around desperately us, but we smiled (maybe anguish and loss of lives! I really wonder
heart and set out for KSA. As for someone and then, presumed stuff which he didn’t
you may expect, I was stopped ………………… A pretty enquire). And GUESS WHAT, that if the US and Japan can come
at the luggage checking and was girl, just in the form of an I WAS NOT STOPPED!
fired with a number of angel from heaven just to Yippee, I made it! We walked together after such a tragedy, if West
questions. That’s when the chief help me, appeared and sat out of the airport together,
told me that it was illegal to just beside me! From her waiting for our parents. Germany and East Germany can come
carry insects that way and looks and dressing, Though I don’t really recollect
I could be fined heavily for it! I presumed she was an the tons of stuff we talked and together after a long history of hostility,
I was shocked! I pleaded them Indian. Half an hour into the shared,
that it was for my biology flight, I finally made an I remember one statement she THEN WHY NOT INDIA AND
project, but they wouldn’t listen! amazing discovery! She was passed that touched, not my
all alone, returning to KSA! heart, but my soul: she said PAKISTAN!!!
Let’s end this long and dark history of

hate and jealousy, and make a better

tomorrow by forgetting the shameful

past and ameliorating the uncertain

present and to give our children a

better and more secure future to live

and prosper in!

Misbah
Periyar Gavel Club- President



NATURE’S SOUL Division L Conference 2017 Connect Contribute Conquer

“Love at first sight” is the undeniable experience Their disciplined way of life was evident I remembered the song “What a
of the magnificent sight of the mighty Himalayan while seeing their amazing patience in wonderful world…” sung by Louis
ranges. Our last vacation to “Himachal Pradesh” in driving up and down the dangerous Armstrong. All these years I was
India, gave a new dimension to our ability to mountain range. It is always just one inch humming the song without even
connect with nature and our fellow human beings. from creating an accident. But what we realising its true meaning! Those
witnessed was a “culture of the hills and lovely people in the Himalayas truly
It was more than just a trip. It was a beautiful kindness”. There was no signal in any of conquered my heart! The trip which
travel filled with ups and downs not just those bumpy roads; there was no need for actually started as a mere joy ride,
physically, but even emotionally! The depth of the street lights, neither a traffic police nor a turned out to be a learning experience
valley took our breath away, the cool breeze level crossing! People knew how to handle of exploring new ways of connecting
radiating along the singing mountains which flows themselves and others around them! We with people to contribute more; even
through the cool Beas River froze our emotions never saw anyone shouting or honking without realising the same!
into joy! Nothing but a sheer feeling of ecstasy even in that busy traffic. They said
filled the atmosphere. It was nature’s way of “accidents are rare” which was indeed a Even after we came down the
emotionally touching us with invisible love! very hard statement to believe when we mountain range back to the normal
Every day was a huge relief from routine brain were travelling minimum at the height of road, my mind kept wandering towards
travel. Physically experiencing new places, the 13,000 ft. above sea level. More than the magnificent people who had the
green mountains dressed up in a cream of snow, discipline, I realised it was the “love for touch of nature within themselves. It
the steep roads dancing their way to the mountain their fellow mankind” which made them just happened like first love, “which
top, simple people leading their cattle or plucking live a peaceful life. lasted for a moment, but I know it will
apples, heightened sensory engagements that spark last my life time and even more if I
a deeper sense of self…creating nothing but a “Smile” was their identity. There were share this untold story of nature’s way
magical experience! hardly any hospitals nearby, when I asked of creating people who are capable of
how they handle emergencies, an old lady “Connecting to contribute and
Documenting memories was the only wish we had smiled and said “Nature is our doctor, what conquer!”
during those splendid days. Every scene was a gift else we need?” I was speechless, learning
from Mother Nature! Her way of connecting was the amazing connection they had with MTM Praveena Arvind
unique. For every click of the camera, we felt the Mother Nature and how they blindly
warmth of smile radiating from outside to deep trusted and loved the world around them.
within our soul. The smell of freshness of the tall
trees and freshly painted skies made us wanting for
more. After a few days, even though every place
looked similar just proving nature’s overflowing
love for mankind; we found there was a lot of
difference in every step we took. It was not the
mere landscape which made the difference, but the
people living there who made us feel so!

Division L Conference 2017

AlHussan International Schools Elite Gavel Club Connect Contribute Conquer

1st Gavel Club in International Schools, AlHussan International Schools Elite Gavel Club, chartered on 1st October, 2015, sponsored
by TM Palaniraj and mentored by DTM Manivannan. The club is led by club counselor DTM Periyanayaham and Club coordinators
TM Palaniraj and TM Muhamamd Zakariya Babur and by its articulate young President, Gavelier Mohammed Tayfoor.

Division L Conference 2017

Connect Contribute Conquer

AlHussan International Schools Elite Gavel Club

Division L Conference 2017 Connect Contribute Conquer

Periyar Gavel Club

Division L Conference 2017

Connect Contribute Conquer

ELITE YLP - 2014 Division L Conference 2017
ELITE YLP - 2016
Connect Contribute Conquer

ELITE YLP - 2015

Division L Club officer’s Training - 2017 Division L Conference 2017

Connect Contribute Conquer

Sadara Toastmaster Club goes Beyond the Fence Division L Conference 2017

Sadara Leaders Toastmaster (TM) club is continuing its journey Connect Contribute Conquer
to spread out the Toastmaster mission which is creating future
leaders by extending their help to even outside the Sadara The purpose of this invitation was to give a demonstrational meeting regarding the
Fence. In January 2017, our neighbor SATORP Company – structure of the Toastmaster meetings and how it’s facilitated. From the Sadara
another joint venture for Saudi Aramco - has started to establish Toastmaster club. Abdulkareem Balhareth (President), Fahad AlRuhayem (VP
their Toastmaster club. For that, Sadara Leaders TM club had Education), Faisal AlShaheen (VP PR), Muaiyed AlOtaibi (Sergeant at Arm) and
the honor to build a cornerstone of SATORP TM Club which Mohannad AlOraini took the lead to deliver a fruitful demo meeting for an hour. The
will make a strong platform for them to start their successful Sadara team has been welcomed and thanked by the SATORP club president TM
journey in creating competent speakers. Sultan Sharooro for contributing in the first milestones of establishing their club.

We express our wishes and ultimate hopes to SATORP Toastmaster Club to grow
and flourish to become a leading example of successful speakers.

Faisal AlShaheen

VP PR of Sadara Leaders Toastmaster club

Division L Conference 2017

Connect Contribute Conquer

MARkET YouR Self Division L Conference 2017

Today, we are living in an uncertain economy and Connect Contribute Conquer
we are unaware about future. And that is why the
company is investing more in Marketing to cope up “Marketing is a social and managerial process by ‘The right product, in the right place, at
with ongoing scenario though the Marketing has its which individuals and groups obtain what they the right time, and at the right price’
roots since 1450’s (Gutenberg's metal movable want and need through creating, offering and
type, leading eventually to mass-production of exchanging products of value with others” – Philip It has been observed that strong relationship
flyers and brochures) but now companies are Kotler marketing depends on the development of the
realizing that Marketing is an indispensable part of following components:
every business to run successfully. For most of us, marketing is an essential activity Product: Because winning new customers is
for our business. We must market our services and harder, the best strategy is to develop
One marketing standard chronology (Bartels, 1974; ourselves to our target audience so they become products and services for the evolving need of
Dawson 1969; Keith 1960; Kotler and Keller 2006) aware of us and are interested to learn more. current customers, rather than passing them
subdivides marketing as follows: Therefore, it is advantageous for us to spend our off to other sellers. For e.g. insurance
time on activities that will move our business companies provide a range of products that
• Production Orientation era forward - and marketing is indeed one of them. become relevant at different times in a
• Product Orientation era Your values are going to be the foundation of what customer’s life.
• Sales Orientation era you are and what you always will be. Ethical Employees: All employees of service firms
• Market Orientation era means giving your users what they deserve. Who should be trained to become “PART-TIME
• Customer Orientation era do you love? What brand do you love? What MARKETERS” because their interactions are
product/organization/charity could you not live important in building corporate relationships.
There is an obvious, common misconception of without? Which brand can you connect to? How Customers: Not all customers are suitable
exactly what 'Marketing' actually is. Often people are you going to get the consumer to love you and for long term relationships Customers worth
use the word marketing as though it were just your brand? The foundation of all good marketing pursuing are those that have the greatest
another word for advertising. Some seem to think is to know your market. That means your LIFETIME VALUE. Loyalty-based
that Marketing is just another word for Promotion. customers. The well-marketed business is marketing should not be confused with short-
Neither is true. Marketing is a far broader topic that completely customer focused. They identify what term price promotions. Keeping information
holds promotion as a sub-function of marketing, the customer wants or needs, and then supply it at on customers and determining CUSTOMER
and advertising as a sub-function of promotion. If a price the customer is prepared to pay. RETURN ON ASSETS is a useful tool.
you want to summaries marketing in one sentence
then it is,” the process of planning and executing
the conception, pricing, promotion, and distribution
of goods, services, and ideas to create exchanges
that satisfy individual and organization objectives.”
Or

“Marketing is about producing what you can sell,
rather than just selling what you can produce.”

Division L Conference 2017

Marketing Management Process Connect Contribute Conquer

Analysis/Audit – where are we now? Gav. Muhammad Arslan Babur
Objectives – where do we want to be?
Strategies – which way is best? VPPR – AlHussan Elite Gavel Club
Tactics – how do we get there?
(Implementation – Getting there!) Great Leaders
Control – Ensuring arrival
A great leader is someone who believes in you and gets you to believe in yourself
In the broadest sense, marketing incorporates
everything about understanding markets (both A great leader is someone who demonstrates what’s possible
yours and the ones you have not yet made
yours), bringing your product/service to a A great leader is someone who empowers the people not wields them.
market, and even developing new markets.
Marketing is basically the strategic part of Over the years there have been many great leaders. We all look up to them and
business. Marketing incorporates or impacts everyone wants to be like them. We should always remember leaders aren’t born they
heavily upon all of the following activities: are made. You do not make yourself a leader, your actions do. A leader inspires
others to do more, dream more and learn more. Nowadays there are many leaders in
⎫ Business Development our community because they all inspire someone. However, we forget that to be a
⎫ Product Development leader connecting with people is important. Many new leaders don’t consider the
⎫ Market Development opinions of citizens and believe that they should follow them blindly. They have
⎫ Market Research forgotten that a leader isn’t someone who people have to follow he should be
⎫ Competitor Analysis someone who people want to follow.
⎫ Pricing Strategy
⎫ Public Relations People won’t follow you if you don’t give them something in return. Many people
⎫ Customer Service forget this. A leader also contributes to the life of others and tries his hardest to make
⎫ Promotions it better. There has been no leader who hasn’t contributed to his followers. But we
⎫ Brand Development slowly forget this small thing and don’t even try to contribute.
⎫ Company/Corporate Identity
A leader is not a person who ruthlessly conquers and plunders. A leader should be
Hope after reading this article you have learnt someone who connects contributes and conquers. He alone should be able to inspire
that how marketing is important for individual people through his actions and conquer their hearts and minds.
as well for the organization.
A leader is someone who leads his people. But a great leader is someone who makes
Syed Abbas Rizvi the leaders. So, connect contribute and conquer. Inspire others with your actions and
be the change you want yourself.

A long lost friend Division L Conference 2017

Aditya Nair Connect Contribute Conquer

“Books are our best friends”. But, is it right to say so in HOW BEAUTIFUL IS THE EARTH!
today’s world, where children have their faces glued to the
digital screens for the entire day. YL Hisham Shameer Ahmed
Books in today’s world are replaced by the internet, as it is
easier to search for information using a search engine than it is I looked out of the window!
to go through a book, page by page to get the same
information. But, if we look at the other side of the coin, going The earth was green
through books page by page, reading all the information gives
us immense knowledge, unlike when using a search engine, The sky was blue
which gives us information, served on a plate.
Moreover, books are being replaced by electronic books or I could see and hear
commonly known as e-books, which for many people are the
same as reading a normal book. But, in my opinion, when The lovely due
reading a book, it is not just a visual experience; a book has
the power to take you to a completely different world, the feel I could see the butterflies
of the pages and not to forget the fresh, novel smell of a new
book and the way the words are shaped on the pages in various Dance and sing
fonts. On the other hand, these sensations cannot be achieved
when reading through a tablet or a laptop. I could see the birds
Not only this, but, books for many people are treasures, to
them they are priceless possessions. In many families, books Hanging on the wind
are passed on from generation to generation.
I could see the trees
In the present day, people prefer playing video games and
watching videos more that reading books in their leisure time, Some short and tall
this is because, they enjoy watching animated and colourful
objects more than they like reading books without animations. All were lovely as their leaves
But all the glitters is not gold, and if you look deep into the
books you will find that it is more colourful and animated than Change in the fall
videos or any other digital object you will ever see as it stirs
our feelings and imaginations within. I realized how beautiful is the earth
Books are not just a collection of papers; they are the source of
un-inhibited joy for the soul and mind of the reader. Best And I thank almighty for his beautiful creation.
friend- thy name is book.

Division L Conference 2017

Trust Life Why to trust? Connect Contribute Conquer

Dr Benedetto De Martino, a Sir Henry Wellcome Trust Postdoctoral Fellow and first 1. Trust enables you to go outside of your comfort zone
author of the report, explains: "Imagine you're on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.
You've just answered the £500,000 question correctly and have moved on to the final When we trust our self, it is much easier to step outside our
question. You're down to your 50:50 lifeline but don't know the answer. If you get it comfort zone. Comfort zones keep us stuck and living within the
right, you'll win £1 million; if you get it wrong, you'll drop back to £32,000. The vast confines of comfort zones for a long period of time leads to
majority of people would take the 'loss averse option' and walk away with £500,000." immobility and same old, same old. Going beyond your habituated
comfort zone allows you to live an exciting, adventurous and
One of the biggest obstacles to transformation and living an inspired life is TRUST. inspired life.
Survey say that trust level varies from 23 to 65% in our life.
2. Trust allows you to grow
Have a think about this...
 Do I experience anxiety or panic attacks? Trusting in life and our self, will allow us to take the necessary
 Do I worry about the future? risks required for us to grow and live an expansive life.
 Do I harbor regrets?
 Do I hold myself back? 3. Trust gives you back your life force energy
 Do I suffer from irrational fears?
 Do I wish that the past was different? When we live in trust, we do not waste any of our precious life
 Do I repeatedly analyze things you did or didn’t say/do? force energy worrying about the past or the future.
 Do I suffer from feelings of jealousy?
 Do I procrastinate or put off making decisions for fear of getting it wrong? 4. Trust catalyzes transformation and healing

If you said yes to any of the above questions, current findings from research show Living with trust, allows blocked energy to start to flow;
that you are not alone... unexpected friendships, opportunities, synchronicities and
connections appear, like ‘magic’. Cultivating the power of internal
trust precipitates deep transformation and healing.
Trust is the doorway to transformation and healing so that you can
start living a powerful, empowered and inspired life.

5. Trust initiates health and happiness

When we develop that sense of inner trust in your life, we will
start to heal and release old patterns. Releasing old patterns will
allow you to wake up feeling great! When you feel good on the
inside, you begin radiating happiness on the inside.

Division L Conference 2017 Connect Contribute Conquer

How do I trust? Life is pure positive energy and the reality
is it reflects the same positive energy. When
Credibility: we look around at nature, we will notice a
deep sense of peace, joy and love reflecting
Do you think the person speaks truthfully? More from it. Everything that has “no mind” is a
importantly than not lying, do they speak the perfect reflection of the natural vibration
whole truth – are they transparent? Are their of life. The “mind” has a inclination
credentials readily present and do you understand towards negativity because it’s based in
them? Can they answer your questions in ways “survival” mode of thinking. Therefore,
you can understand? While all this may sound unless the mind becomes awakened to the
objective, there’s an important subject component truth of the true nature of life, it will
of credibility as well: do you believe the person? continue moving in fear. To develop trust
If your gut instinct is to doubt, and you are not a in life one has to understand the truth of
completely risk-averse person, then listen to your what is life really.
gut.

Reliability:

Can you depend on this person to do what they
say they will do? Do they have a track record
with you? If not with you, can they demonstrate
a track record with others, as in references?

Intimacy: S. Koteeswaran, DTM

Does the person listen to you in a way that makes
you feel heard? Do you feel they’re being open
with you? Do you feel the interaction is two-way?
It’s OK to answer this one with emotional
responses – part of trust is emotional and this is
that part.

Division L Conference 2017

Moral Degradation of the Youth Connect Contribute Conquer

YL Mark Ashraf Light yourself to illuminate

Moral degradation is one of the gravest issues The life is one of service to others, where we show love and
facing the youth of the current generation. Morals of the youth are influenced kindness to everyone, even to those who do not treat us well.
by family, society, culture and social values. We can serve others in many ways, and we should ensure
The agents of education such as the family, school, religious houses and society that we use every opportunity that we can.
are to Dear youth leaders can anyone share your opinion about the
play a major role in ensuring that moral values are passed on to the child as he most valuable way to serve others???
comes in One of the most valuable ways to serve others is to show the
contact with them. The child fulfills the expected norms of the society depending m that we care. Giving our time and encouragement to some
on the way he has been brought up by his first point of contact (that is the parents) one will often be more valuable than even the most generous
with the gift. That’s what our mentors sitting here do for us. What a
world. Unfortunately, due to several social and economic factors, many families wonderful platform they have provided for us. Aren’t we
are blessed for that?
disoriented, disorganized and confused, and therefore have failed woefully to play When others need our help, we should make a special effort
this to show them that we care.
vital role. In the bygone social system, society played a pivotal role in framing and A good teacher, trainer, even our mentors are like a candle –
implementing value-based moralities. But current society has been experiencing it consumes itself to light the way for others. I believe that a
serious good leader also has the same quality.
conflicts regarding value-based moral degradation, particularly of the youth, and Friends, we are coming from different countries and here we
in reality it cannot be denied that there is no clear ideology in society which can get changes to know the different countries culture and nice
bring about a value-based vision in children's lives. This puts the onus on parents interaction with each other’s.
in raising subservient, No matter where you are, brighten like a candle, share your
socially-conscious human beings. knowledge, and let your presence enlighten your
Sorrowfully, the youths of today have been ensnared by youthful lusts, pride, surroundings.
arrogance, There are so many unfortunate people around you for
disrespect, disobedience and indiscipline. These are traits that can only grow out looking a brighter future and you can give them little light.
of As the sun illuminates the moon and the stars, so let us
habits. ‘Thoughts bring forth acts, acts produce habits, while habits become illuminate one another.
character’.
The changes in the family structure, advent of westernization, the media YL Annlyn Rose Shibu
revolution, and
political manipulation, are speculated to have played a determining role in
redefining the value systems in society. This has directly brought about both
moral degradation of youth and social deteriorate, as well. Moral orientation
in the youth is facing a notable shift that needs to be worked upon seriously,
in an effort to resolve this malignant social outbreak.

Division L Conference 2017

You make obedient daughter, Connect Contribute Conquer
You make honest wives,
You make wonderful lovers, Let me tell you a fact, though today, women are participating in all fields
You make caring daughter, like sports, education, science, IT, politics and many odd fields such as
You make sweet sisters, driving etc. But still there are many issues that need to be tackled such
Woman! How you fulfil all the desires? dowry, sexual harassment, crime against women, rape, child marriage,
domestic violence, eve teasing and sex related abortions. Many women
As everybody knows that March 8 was the need help to get out of the society’s evil customs.
international women’s day.
International Women’s Day is a great way to remember the
The objective of celebrating this day is to show love and gratitude importance of women in life but celebrating IWD just because other
towards women. countries are celebrating won’t give us anything or solve our problem.
Do not merely follow such trends and days blindly without knowing the
But what about the actual status of women? It is still struggling and importance associated with them. The objective will be clear once the
calling for action. importance is understood.

In present day’s society, the status of women is questioned again and So if we really want to celebrate International Women’s Day and have
again. We keep consoling ourselves that everything is fine but love for our mother, sister, wife and girl child then we have to take a
actually it is not. pledge that there will be a total respect for women in our society and sure
we will set an example of great respect, admiration and respect towards
Though many women do hold high offices, have equal rights, but yet women.
more than half of them have to face discrimination, social crime,
violence and challenges in day to day life. Life of a women is far MTM Sima Shibu
more complex and tuff as compared to man. VP Edu. Periyar Toasttmasters Club

In a family a man goes to work, comes back and gets food and sleep.
In the same family, a woman goes to work, gets up early in the
morning, prepares breakfast, packs lunch, comes back from work,
prepares dinner, serves her family meals, take care of her children
and family. So who is doing more work is absolutely clear, but then
also she is not getting the respect which she truly deserves.

Division L Conference 2017

Connect Contribute Conquer

Be Willing

Willingness Opens The Doors To Knowledge, Direction, And
Achievement. Be Willing to Know; Be Willing To Do, Be willing
To Create A Positive Result. Be Willing, Especially, To Follow
Your Dreams.

Willingness is defined as “cheerful compliance”- in other words-
readiness, enthusiasm or eagerness. Willingness is the key to
change; and change is required for new personal success and peak
personal performance.
It takes mental strength to honestly answer the questions - Are you
willing to have what you desire? Are you willing to let go of your
old ways of doing or thinking? Some people ask “Are you willing
to do whatever it takes to get what you want?” It is really not a
matter of doing whatever it takes, that is a byproduct of willingness
to explore other beliefs and habits for living.
If you do not change your beliefs at their origin you are
automatically programmed to relive your past. Success in life is not
about luck! It is about managed thoughts, focused attention and
deliberate action.

Failure is never final unless you quit. When you fail, you must stop
two things: One- You must stop what you are thinking and: Two -
stop what you are doing. If you continue to think the same old
thoughts, and take the same old action, failure is going to become a
permanent part of your life. It does not matter if you fall down. As
long as you get back up, think new thoughts, and take new actions.
You will reach your dreams with the positive “willingness” to make
it happen.
Personal success are personal failure all start in the mind – You are
just three golden words away – “I am willing” – to continue failing
with the old ways or to breathe success with the change that is
desired.

MTM Mrs. Samina Mazher
Centre Director
U C MAS-Jubail/Dammam/Khobar.

Contribute or Conquer? Division L Conference 2017

People have debated over the future. People The same way the thin line between Connect Contribute Conquer
have debated contribution and conquering might seem not so
on which country is the strongest. People thin or revealing. It is never possible for one to And there has always been an undying fact that
have debated on fiercely conquer something or someone and creating fear never has made a legend out of a
who is the best modern day footballer. then contribute. human.
People have even This world has always been a lover of selfless Legends are the ones who have contributed with all
debated on topics that need no debate; such people. their heart, mind and soul. To society, to technology,
as, gender People who have contributed first; some, their to the poor, to the needy, etc.
equality or inequality! But personally I have entire life. Well I personally know many legends. You want to
not seen or Let it be contribution that was or is done for know where? Ha ha, its right here in this Globe, in
heard people debating whether, it is mankind, Saudi Arabia, in District 79; the legends that
important to contribute or conquer? or for science, or even for an animal; it is Toastmasters International shone on us. The legends
The fact is contribution comes hand in hand considered to who first contributed and then conquered us, with
with conquering. There is a thin line be an honest and a great achievement. their hard work, selflessness, love and affection.
separating the two; just like how life instantly Contribution is So let us all follow the right footsteps of our leaders
turns into death in a flash of an eye! The one of the main ingredients that has bought us and mentors, to learn the art of Contributing and then
reason I have mentioned this example is all to today’s kind of science; where we all have Conquering; maybe the love of your life or maybe
simple. There can never be death before life. cars or planes to travel by, or as simple as the even the world! Fellow Toastmasters, let us bring out
It is always vice versa; well for us humans of science to make a quick tasty meal. the champion in us! Let us respectively, Contribute
course. We live this beautiful life pleasantly The problem that persists with trying to conquer and Conquer!
that was gifted to us, with a mixture of first is that it sends out waves of unwanted
sadness and happiness. If we look it this way behavior. Or you could put it this way, which Abdul Rahim.
with our naked eye, things may not seem to people simply wouldn’t want to appreciate. Vice Chair - SSA
exist; like death. But when time comes it Even if some do, it might simply be out of fear.
takes you there in an instant.