Nmc Toastmasters newsletter Oct 2013

ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 2013 QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER OF NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER TOASTMASTERS CLUB-4066, AREA-9, DIVISION-H, DISTRICT-20

ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 2013 CLUB-4066, AREA-9, DIVISION-H, DISTRICT-20

QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER OF NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER TOASTMASTERS CLUB

WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER WE MEET ALTERNATE SATURDAYS

AT NMC SPECIALTY HOSPITAL BUILDING, ELECTRA STREET, ABU DHABI

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

2 NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER - WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE CORPORATE VOICE AUGUST 2013 31

DISTRICT 20

Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, UAE

DIVISION H

Abu Dhabi and Al-Ain

AREA 2 AREA 9 AREA 26 AREA 55 AREA 11 AREA 23

Abu Dhabi

Chapter

NMC

Corporate Basharia

NMC Community

Al Jazira Millennium

Achievers Al Ain Abjad Inner

Universe Spectrum

Abu Dhabi

ICAI

Ro’Yah Al Ain

Municipality Intilaaqah KERA ISC Humoroids

Al

Riyadah Mussafah

Abu Dhabi

Refinery

Velosian

Abu Dhabi

ETA ASCON

STAR OUR

NBAD

AFAQ PI NBAD One

FML AD TEAM VOICE

DIVISION

A C K

Bahrain

DIVISION

N

Jordan, Lebanon

DIVISION

G I M O

Kuwait

DIVISION

D L

Oman

DIVISION

E

Qatar

DIVISION

B F H J

UAE

Moments of Joy

here are many defining moments in our

lives that we cherish. Most of them we

capture and frame in our hearts to take

out later and breath in the joy again and again.

Life becomes lively as we take moments of joy

to our heart. It is a pleasure to remind our dear

and near ones with those defining moments and

make their lives more lively.

NMC Corporate Chapter is particular in

celebrating happy moments of each and every

club member.

It is a regular practice for the club to

announce special moments in members life and

celebrate.

T

October 28th

was a memorable day for TM

Mahmoud Akl, as he became the proud father of

baby boy Suleiman. His smile conveys his

happiness. We, NMC Corporate Chapter join

Mahmoud in this happy moment and wish him

continuous happiness in life.

TM Vignesh Udayshankar steps on to a new

milestone in his life as he gets engaged with Ms.

Vijaya Bharathe at Chennai on 14th

October 2013.

NMC Corporate Chapter wish TM Vignesh and Ms

Vijaya all the very best for a happy married life.

CORPORATE VOICE OCTOBER 2013 3

Meeting Date Best Speaker Best Evaluator Best Table Topics

261 13 July, 2013 Deekshith Manmohan Sreedhar Archana Manmohan

262 27 July, 2013 Chinmoy Ghose Anoop OK -

263 3 Aug, 2013 Manish Bahirwani Sunil Kottarathil Vivek Balakrishnan

264 17 Aug, 2013 Ramachandra Naina Mohammed Deekshith

265 31 Aug, 2013 Chinmoy Ghose Dr. Katrak Merezban Manmohan Sreedhar

266 14 Sept, 2013 Manish Bahirwani Manmohan Sreedhar Dr. Katrak Merezban

267 28 Sept, 2013 Deepa Shetty Manmohan Sreedhar Naina Mohammed

268 5 Oct, 2013 Divya Daniel Manmohan Sreedhar Dr. Kiran Kumar Rai

contents

2

4

5

6

7

11

12

16

18

24

26

30

31

METICULOUS (mɪˈtɪkjʊləs) adjective

Showing great attention to detail, Very careful

and precise.

REJUVENATE (rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪt) verb

Make (someone or something) look or feel

better, younger, or more vital.

BANAL (bəˈnɑːl,-ˈnal) adjective

So lacking in originality as to be obvious or

boring.

CURIOUS (kjʊərɪəs) adjective

Eager to know or learn something, inquisitive,

intrigued.

CONTRIVE (kənˈtrʌɪv) verb

Create or bring about (an object or a situation)

by deliberate use of skill and artifice.

DEVIOUS (diːvɪəs) adjective

Showing a skillful use of underhand tactics to

achieve goals.

EARNEST (əːnɪst) adjective

Resulting from or showing sincere and intense

conviction.

30 NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER - WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

articles

Meeting Date

269 19 Oct, 2013

270 2 Nov, 2013

271 16 Nov, 2013

272 30 Nov, 2013

273 14 Dec, 2013

274 28 Dec, 2013

Upcoming events

to watch out for WORDS OF THIS QUARTER

8-10 Success Story

October 2013, Issue 1

District Alignment

Area Governor’s

Message

Editorial

About Toastmasters

Club Officers

New Members

DTAC 2013

Achievements – First

Quarter

Achievements – Past

Year

Moments Captured

Revitalized Education

Program

Upcoming Events

Moments of Joy

28 Achieve Greatness

Together Benefits of Combined Meetings

14 Dare to Dream

HALL OF FAME

REGULAR CLUB MEETINGS

• JUDGES TRAINING:-

On 8th

November 2013 at Al Rimal Club

Judges and Chief Judges Training Session to

assist toastmasters to prepare for upcoming

contest season.

• FASHION AND TALENT SHOW:-

On 15th

November 2013 at GASCO Auditorium

An entertainment event filled with ladies /

gents fashion show, stand up comedy, singing

competition etc.

• BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN:-

On 23rd

and 30th

November at Abu Dhabi

Blood Bank. Organised by NMC Community

Chapter.

DIVISION PROGRAMS

20 Going Beyond Our Club


From the Desk of the area governor

rea 9 is one of the largest Areas in the entire

District, from a geographic perspective, with

clubs located across a span of over 200kms –

from Al Ain to Abu Dhabi and through Mussafah

and Umm Al Nar.

Having set our feet firmly on the ground, it was

time to expand our service to the community. What

else, we reckoned could be better than spreading

the benefits of Toastmasters educational program

to more around us? Though geographically

challenged, our main goal this year will be to

provide guidance and support to all clubs and to

ensure they follow the toastmasters guidelines

effectively so that the members gain maximum

benefit from the program.

NMC Corporate Chapter Club was chartered on

13th

December 2001 under the patronage of Dr. B.

R. Shetty. Over the last nine years, right from the

time TM Sudhir Shetty took over the reins, the

club has always been in the limelight and at

present, it is at its peak. Presently, meetings are

conducted in the huge well equipped basement

auditorium of NMC Specialty Hospital. Very few

clubs are privileged to have such a spacious and

better equipped venue for a meeting.

The club has proved its versatility –

communication and leadership skills – by actively

participating and promoting toastmasters program

for the benefit of the community. Let us continue

our service to society and make more leaders

around us…

“If you can dream it,

you can do it” – Walt Disney

A


Joint meetings are a great way to

learn from each other. Each club has

formed a way of functioning over the

years. Experiencing the different

ways a club functions is the best way

to learn the best practices that can be

adopted in a club. Spectrum and

NMC Corporate Chapter has

immensely benefitted from these

joint meetings and both clubs put

their best practices into practice to

grow further.

Let us continue the long term

association for a bright future.

Dr. Katrak Merezban, ACS ALB

Area 9 Governor

ACHIEVING

GREATNESS

TOGETHER

From the Desk of the editor

he summer is over, winter is yet to come,

but the toastmasters journey continues.

This year is very special to NMC

Corporate Chapter, as we are climbing one more

step towards our sustainable club goal. When

the club started the process of recovery in 2010,

we had a clear plan in mind. Making the club

self sufficient and strong from the weak position

that it was in, was not an easy task. But, a step

by step approach, with the support of its pillar

members, catapulted the club to a level, which

each of the members are proud of, today. A

combination of determination, dedication and

selfless approach from the members who stood

by the club made it a reality. The club continues

to be Presidents Distinguished.

After a gap of two years, the Corporate Voice

is reaching out to our members again, with a

new look – following Toastmasters re-branding

guidelines. Accordingly, we have included some

of the proud moments of the previous year in

this issue. The 250th

meeting celebration (Page

24) and achievements of last year (Page 18) will

surely bring back sweet memories to our

members.

NMC Corporate Chapter is proud of their

member’s achievements. We are not only

inspired by each other’s success story (Page 8),

but also celebrate those special moments of their

life (Page 31). A club for the members and by

the members - each member is special in our

club. Together, we continue to grow.

Happiness keeps you smiling, Success keeps

you glowing, Attitude keeps you going. As the

NMC tagline goes, TOGETHER WE SMILE…

together we spread smiles..

T

Since 2010, NMC

Corporate Chapter and

Spectrum Toastmasters

Club conduct joint

meeting during summer –

an effective way to tackle

the low attendance during

the vacation time, when

most of the toastmasters

take their annual vacation.

JOINT CLUB MEETING

s schools over UAE head for their summer

vacation, parents also plan their annual

leave. Thus, it is common for toastmasters

clubs to experience low turn out during club

meetings in July-August time. Some of the clubs

even suspend their regular meetings during this

period as they are not even able to fill the basic

minimum meeting roles to conduct a meeting.

By accepting the reality and planning in

advance, this challenge can be faced and

mitigated without any stress. Joint meetings is

an ideal solution to tackle low attendance.

The extra people and energy from these joint

meeting can double the fun.

A

CORPORATE VOICE OCTOBER 2013 5 28 NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER - WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE Sunil Kottarathil, DTM

Editor, Publisher –

“Corporate Voice”

TOASTMASTERS TIMELINE

Since 1924, Toastmasters has been thriving. Take a look at some of the major moments related to education program, Toastmasters has experienced along the way.

1928 October - The first Manual for Toastmasters Clubs is copyrighted by Ralph Smedley. Today this is called the Club Management Handbook.

1936 - Dr. Ralph C. Smedley published a mimeograph pamphlet entitled Constructive Criticism. This material soon became a printed booklet and was later renamed Speech Evaluation.

1950 - The Beyond Basic Training manual, with 16 projects, was introduced to provide advanced speech training for members.

1969 August - The Communication and Leadership Program manual is introduced at the International Convention in Cleveland, Ohio

1978 January - The multi-manual Advanced Communication and Leadership Program is introduced.

1984 July - The Communication and Leadership Program manual is revised, and two new educational awards are introduced: the Able Toastmaster Bronze (ATM-B) and Able Toastmaster Silver (ATM-S).

1997 January - The revised Communication and Leadership Program manual is introduced.

1997 July - An improved two-track educational recognition system begins.

2006 January - The Competent Leadership manual is introduced.

2006 July - Award titles in the communication track are renamed, and the leadership track is strengthened and expanded to include the Competent Leader, Advanced Leader Bronze and Advanced Leader Silver awards.

2009 July - The Toastmasters Learning Connection (TLC), an e-learning education platform, is launched.

CORPORATE VOICE OCTOBER 2013 27 6 NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER - WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

Club Mission

We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.

Toastmasters International Mission

We empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.

Toastmasters International Values

� INTEGRITY � RESPECT � SERVICE � EXCELLENCE

Toastmasters International Envisioned Future

To be the first-choice provider of dynamic, high-value, experiential communication and leadership skills development.

District Mission

We build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence.

A Toastmaster’s Promise

As a member of Toastmasters International and my club, I promise

� To attend club meetings regularly

� To prepare all of my speech and leadership projects to the best of my ability, basing them on projects in the Competent Communication, Advanced Communication, or Competent Leadership manuals

� To prepare for and fulfill meeting assignments

� To provide fellow members with helpful, constructive evaluations

� To help the club maintain the positive, friendly environment necessary for all members to learn and grow

� To serve my club as an officer when called upon to do so

� To treat my fellow club members and our guests with respect and courtesy

� To bring guests to club meetings so they can see the benefits Toastmasters membership offers

� To adhere to the guidelines and rules for all Toastmasters education and recognition programs

� To maintain honest and highly ethical standards during the conduct of all Toastmasters activities

Learning Masters:-

Learning Masters are a group of 280 members who

bring their experience and provide input into the

program while keeping it grounded in the time-

honored Toastmasters traditions of delivering prepared

speeches at club meetings, giving and receiving

evaluations, and recognizing achievements. Led by

Past International President Pat Johnson, Learning

Masters will work hand-in-hand with the development

team as representatives of the membership at large.

They will:

• Share their experience of learning through

Toastmasters

• Provide input about what they would like to see

in a Revitalized Education Program

• Validate assumptions of learning ideas and tools

as the project progresses

• Be the first to try out the updated program as beta

testers

Following three Learning Masters are appointed by

Toastmasters International from District 20:

• Rajagopalan K Nambiar (UAE)

• Ramesh Anantharaman (UAE)

• Zishan Beg (Bahrain)

Ambassadors:-

More than 1,500 members will serve as

Ambassadors. One Chief Ambassador represents each

district and oversees one Ambassador for every 10

clubs within the district. Chief Ambassadors lead their

teams in educating members about the revitalized

program, providing progress updates, explaining the

program’s enhancements and benefits, and visiting

clubs to spread the word and answer member

questions. Ambassadors will provide updates to club

members on a regular basis throughout the year.

Radhakrishnan Karantharath, DTM is selected to

serve as Chief Ambassador for District 20.

The Ambassadors will:

• Educate other members about the revitalized program

• Provide updates as the project progresses

• Explain the program’s enhancements

• Spread the word about its benefits for Toastmasters

• Visit clubs and answer members’ questions

• Work closely with the Chief Ambassador to share

member feedback and questions


PRESIDENT – SUNIL KOTTARATHIL, DTM

Responsible for fulfilling the mission of the club. Sets the tone

for the club, provides helpful, supportive leadership for all the

club’s activities. Motivate, make peace and facilitate as required.

Preside over meetings, Earn Distinguished Club Recognition,

Serves as club’s representative at district and international levels.

CLUB OFFICERS for 2013-14

VP EDUCATION – MANISH BAHIRWANI, ACB ALB Responsible for planning, organizing and directing a club

program which meets the educational needs of the individual

members. Important source of Toastmasters knowledge for club

members. Coordinate club schedule, Assist with education

awards, Plan speech contest, Manage mentor program.

VP PUBLIC RELATIONS – DIPTI SUGANDH

Responsible for developing and directing a publicity program

that informs individual members and the general public about

Toastmasters International. Publicize the club, Keep club

website current, Safeguard the Toastmasters Brand.

VP MEMBERSHIP – AAKANT TAURANI, CC Responsible for planning, organizing and directing a program that

ensures individual member retention and growth in club

individual membership. Promote the club and manage the process

of bringing in guests and transforming them into members. Assist

guests, Process membership applications.

SECRETARY – PURVI MEHTA Responsible for club records and correspondence. Keeps an

accurate record of the meetings and activities of the club,

maintains an accurate and complete roster of individual members

of the club and transmits the same to the successor in office.

TREASURER – DEEPA SHETTY Responsible for club financial policies, procedures and controls.

Receives and disburses all club funds, pays to Toastmasters

International all financial obligations of the club as they come

due, keeps an accurate account of all transactions. Transmits the

accounts and all undistributed funds to the successor in office.

SERGEANT AT ARMS – VISHAK BALAKRISHNAN Responsible for club property management, meeting room

preparation, and hospitality. Keeps track of the club’s physical

property, such as the banner, lectern, timing device and other

meeting materials (ballot papers, trophies etc).

IMM. PAST PRESIDENT – RAMESH TAURANI, ACB CL Guides the club officers with his experience during last term.

Assist the club in implementing best practices and lessons learnt

from previous term. Chairs Nominating Committee and assist in

club succession plan.

REVITALIZED EDUCATION PROGRAM

s the world changes, Toastmasters

International is changing with it. To that

end, the organisation is revitalizing its

education program to give members more

opportunities to learn and grow. This project,

one of the organization’s most significant in

recent memory, will culminate in the second half

of 2014 with the launch of a new education

program.

The first step of this journey began with the

Board of Directors’ 2010 Strategic Plan, which

called for a renewed focus on leadership and a

modernized communication program. Since

then, the existing program has been thoroughly

research and analyzed, surveys have been

conducted with current and former members,

and Board committees have focused on

identifying the skills, competencies and

attributes learned through the education

program, and helped to guide a project plan for

the updated program.

The revitalized program will offer a clearer

path for achieving education awards. In

addition, a greater emphasis will be placed on

developing relevant, real-world communication

and leadership skills in a globally evolving

marketplace. The traditional core of our

education system will stay firmly in place.


Achievement and recognition remain at the heart

of the process; however, the organization is taking

the learning experience to the next level.

Technology will become a powerful tool. The

revitalized program will marshal and refine online

resources to boost self-directed learning.

Over the next year there is a tremendous

amount of work to be done to ensure that the

program meets the goals and objectives of all

members and remains true to the foundation of the

organization. After an extensive search, a

curriculum development and instructional design

vendor was selected to assist Toastmasters in

designing new, interactive education content by

synthesizing the work previously conducted.

To ensure that the revitalized education

program meets members’ needs, complements the

club experience, exceeds expectations and remains

authentic to the culture of the organization, more

than 1,800 members have volunteered to

participate in the project.

A

some books. I put up all my childhood

collections. My sons and brother also contributed

their own collections. Thus, with a dream and

support from my family, Abu Dhabi's first

private library, Al-Shaheen Library, was started

on 02-Oct-02. It’s a readers club!!

THE BEGINNING

We had just four hundred books to start with

and it was managed by our family of four. For

the first two years the library was opened only in

the evenings during week days, as both my

husband, Akhtar and I were working. During the

summer holidays and week-end, my sons, Anwar

and Asif would take turns to open it in the

mornings. The starting was very slow, as many

were not aware of its existence. We tried various

ways of making it known, like distributing

pamphlets in schools and in supermarket.

As I wanted all class of people to enjoy

reading, the charges were kept very nominal.

Slowly, we had people coming in. But soon, I

realized that my books started to go missing. Not

only that, I came across some people whose only

intention to come to library was to take out their

frustration and most would compare with the

prices with the libraries back home. We realized

that the purchase of books here in this country

were much more expensive. In addition, there

was the ever increasing rent. Very few realized

that it was worthwhile having a membership than

buying few books. After one year, I seriously

E

CLUB OFFICERS INSTALLATION


TM Aisha Lakdawala

member’s

SUCCESS story

CLUB REGULAR MEETINGS

ach member of NMC Corporate Chapter

has a success story to tell. TM Aisha

Lakdawala has travelled through a path

less travelled, thus making it very special. Here

is the inspiring story of TM Aisha, founder and

CEO of Al Shaheen Library, unfolded in her own

words.

THE EARLY YEARS

After coming to Abu Dhabi in April 1989, I

was not only missing my family and my friends

but also my best companion, as they were no

private libraries in Abu Dhabi. Yes I missed

reading; I missed all those lovely books which

had made me laugh and cry and had inspired me.

HOW WE STARTED

Nearly fourteen years later, it was the summer

of 2002 when my brother Faisal visited us. He

inspired us to set our own library and even

contributed his own collection of books. Thus

one day, armed with a small budget which

included our savings, I approached the

authorities. At first it was difficult to explain, as

this project was the first of its kind. Once I was

understood, a kind gentleman advised me not to

start this, as this business will not be profitable. I

was not sure how to explain to him - that I was

not doing this to fill up my coffers, but to fulfill

my desire and passion.

With the remaining money, I managed to buy

some books plus I put up all my childhood

CELEBRATION 250th

MEETING


Buying a few books. After one year, I

seriously thought of closing it. With financial

losses and bad attitude of few people, I was

mentally dejected.

I was about to give up, but then I thought of

all those children and their excitement when

they would take a book, and all those ladies

who were happy to get hold of a good book.

Some of them had become good friends of

mine. No, just for handful of unpleasant

people, how could I take away this small

pleasure that I was able to give them? How

they blessed me for starting the library. Yes, I

got criticism but at the same time I also got

encouragement from many.

So instead of quitting, I decided to

implement a positive change by introducing

some strict rules. This way I was able to filter

and get only true booklovers. I also managed to

get a dedicated staff and kept the library open

in the mornings too. This way many ladies

were happy to join in, as it was more easier for

them to visit the library during the day time.

Also, a close eye was kept on the books.

Yes, money was also another reason. But

whenever I was able to save some money,

unlike most of the ladies who are happy

shopping for dress and jewelry, I would run to

buy a book and add it to my collection. I was

very keen on increasing my collection. Family,

friends and now even members started to

contribute books. Our friends, Asis and

Matilda, encouraged us to add magazines to

our collection. Many ideas were shared and

implemented. Soon it became Al-Shaheen

Library… a reader's club, for the booklovers,

by the booklovers.

EVER GROWING

With monthly issues of magazines and the

largest collection of Mills & Boons and

Archie’s Comics, to name a few, with an

exclusive section for kids and teens collection,

romantic, action, fiction, self-help, memoirs,

cooking books along with a huge collection of

various comics, it was just not possible to load

them all in our small shop, thus on 27 May

2009, we moved into a bigger place.


THE PRESENT

Today, we claim to be the city’s only

privately owned public library, and stock the

latest issues of your favorite health and style

magazines alongside classics and best-sellers

with more than 25,000+ books and comics in

our collection. We just celebrated its 11th

anniversary. We try to bring work of different

authors and also introduce new ones, and have a

large collection of work from Asian authors. A

constant struggle is still going on to keep the

price to the minimum so booklovers from all the

walks of society can enjoy reading.

FUTURE PLANS

More and more books are being added to the

collection and it is a continuous process, as the

world is so enriched with authors. We wish to

expand to larger and open space, without

bringing any extra cost to the booklovers.

PERSONAL THOUGHT

I am happy that I chose to ignore all the

negative criticism that I initially got. I became a

stronger person and was able to put a strong

front and fulfill not only my dream but provide

and fulfill the desire of many other booklovers.

I am thankful to the Almighty and hope and

pray to keep spreading the light of knowledge

and bring a smile on every face.

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL

With over 292,000 members in 14,350 clubs across 122 countries, Toastmasters International is a world leader in communication and leadership development. For administration purposes, the clubs are structured in 90 districts with 14 Regions worldwide.

Director

WITH SOCIETY AND MEDIA

On International Women’s day 2009, we

were awarded by Dhwani for contribution to the

society. Through the books, which we have

collected or which were donated by the

members, we have helped and supported various

charity organizations such as Medicines Sans

Frontiers UAE & Operation Smile Book

Collection Challenge (VIAD).

To encourage reading in the young Al

Shaheen Library, join hands with various

organizations such as Toastmasters, Indian

Social Center and Women’s Forum, to name a

few. We welcome any organization who would

like to gift the world of books to its personnel or

guest.

In January 2011, we featured in BBC

Business world-Middle East as a small non

profitable business Apart from this, through the

years, the library featured in various local media

such as Gulf News, The National, Abu Dhabi

Week and Time Out Magazine.

OUR COLLECTION

Our collection is not limited - we try our best

to provide materials which in enjoyed by all. We

do include books of members choice and those

which have been requested by them. To give

ease of access to the collection, it is divided into

sections such as Action Zone, Heart Beats,

Special Selection, Teens Treasures, Kids

Korner, Cartoon Corner and Magazine Mazza.

There are monthly issues of the various

magazines such as Reader’s Digest, Health,

Prevention, Stardust, Film Fare, Cine Blitz,

Savvy, Women’s Era, Femina, New Women,

Time, India Today, Society Etc.

TO BE A MEMBER

One just needs to be a booklover to join the

library facilities. There are various schemes to

suit all ages, which will help make reading an

enjoyable and cost-less experience. For

booklovers who do not wish to be a member,

can borrow too, but on slightly different terms.

The facilities of the Al Shaheen Library are

easily accessible.

NMC Corporate Chapter has a regular inflow of new members.

During the first quarter of this toastmasters year, four new members

joined the club.


NEW MEMBERS

DISTRICT 20

Many toastmasters find

NMC Corporate Chapter

very convenient due to the

club meeting timings

(Saturdays afternoon) and

positive and friendly club

atmosphere. Members from

other clubs regularly visit the

club and join to enhance their

communication and

leadership skills.

DUAL MEMBERS

TM Mahmoud Ziad Akl TM Vignesh Umashankar

TM Mohammed Shariff TM Divya Mary Daniel

TM Wilfy T Sabu, CC TM Mathew P Mathews, CC

he District 20 Toastmasters was officially

formed from term 2011-2012 following

the split of District 79. Literally, a new

addition, but factually a prime mover of the

growth of Toastmasters in the Middle East and

South Asia.

Originally associated with the historic District

79, District 20 comprises seven countries in the

Middle East, including: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman,

Qatar, UAE, Jordan and Lebanon. Historically,

Toastmasters in these seven nations were major

contributors to making the region on top of the

world stage in growth, number and dynamism.

After its official split, District 20 on its first

year, achieved the Select Distinguished District

status, having been ranked as the world’s

number 7 in 2011-2012. In 2012-2013, it has

reached the much coveted President

Distinguished District status. It has been a major

contributor to the success of Region

11. Effective July 1, 2013, the District expanded

to 15 Divisions, 64 Areas and 281 clubs.

T


DIVISION H

ivision H is known for its vibrant

activities in District 20. With 28 clubs

in 6 Areas, the Division is very active

throughout. Division Conference held each

year during the month of April, is a festival for

all toastmasters.

A couple of Arabic Clubs and many

corporate and community clubs make the

Division unique in its approach and learning

through a variety of programs. Inter Division

Quiz competition conducted last year and

Fashion / Talent show planned for this year are

a few examples.

The Division supports 9 Gavel clubs which

are of great community service.

Division H is fast growing, promoting

toastmasters program at each available

opportunity. No wonder new clubs are being

chartered every year. The latest addition to

toastmasters family were the three corporate

clubs – one at Fluor and two at NBAD. This

year, there are many more new clubs, most of

them corporate clubs, being chartered.

D

or more than 800 toastmasters across the

middle east, 9-11 May 2013 were

unforgetful days as they witnessed

DTAC 2013 at Festival City, Dubai. The event

was filled with many valuable sessions

including-

- Master Key Note Speech from the

Toastmasters International President Elect Lt.

Col Mohamed Murad, DTM.

- Workshop on Speaking Skills by the 2011

World Championship Runner up – TM

Kwong Yue Yang.

- Workshop on art of using Humor in Public

Speaking – Stand up; Speak up; Shut up – by

renowned Speaker & Trainer TM Chendil

Kumar.

- A “First Timer’s Session” conducted by our

District Governor DTM Alex Ginete.

- Eight Education Sessions from Prominent

Toastmasters within the District – How to

Conquer Fear (TM Hamdah), Corporate

Dressing (TM Racquel Eder), Progress (TM

KG Guna), Hook With Humor (TM Lakhi

Sawlani), Magnificient Matra (TM Prakash

Chugani), Find the Mickey in You (TM

Royston Fernandes), Mind Mapping (TM Jijie

Zablan), Leadership is Every Toastmaster’s

Business (TM Sridhar Sampath)

Couple of Arabic Clubs, many corporate

F


AREA 9

rea 9 is one of the largest Areas in the

entire District, from a geographic

perspective, with clubs located across a

span of over 200kms - from Al Ain to Abu

Dhabi and through Mussafah and Umm Al Nar.

Though Area 9 was initially comprised of Al

Ain based clubs, as all clubs except one closed

down, the Area was re-aligned to include clubs

in Abu Dhabi and Mussafah also.

Mussafah and Al-Ain Toastmasters clubs are

the only community clubs in their respective

locations. PI Toastmasters is a university club at

Petroleum Institute in Umm Al Nar. Al-Ain

Municipality club, which was a corporate Arabic

club in Al Ain municipality was suspended in

September 2013 after a year of non-functioning.

Lot of growth potential has been identified in

Mussafah area, which can be materialized

through a proper plan, in coming years.

A

Al Ain Toastmasters Meet 1

st & 3

rd

Tuesdays 7:30pm at

Tawam Hospital

Mussafah Toastmasters Meet alternate

Tuesdays 8:00pm at Malayalee Samajam

PI Toastmasters Meet 1

st & 3

rd

Tuesdays 5:30pm at Petroleum Institute

The Champion in International Speech

Contest TM Shurooq Al Banna went on to win

third place at the international conference in

August, making District 20 proud.

DARE TO DREAM


DISTRICT 20 RECOGNITION 2012-13

DIVISION H RECOGNITION 2012-13 Division H Annual Conference on 12

th

April 2013 was a memorable one for

members of NMC Corporate Chapter.

Among many recognitions, most

significant ones were the contest

winners TM Dr. Katrak Merezban

(Humorous second place), TM

Manmohan Sreedhar (Evaluation

second place and Table Topics third

place). DTM Sunil Kottarathil was

recognized for his support in coaching

weak clubs and was adjudged as the

toastmaster of the year.

During District 20 Annual Conference (DTAC 2013),

NMC Corporate Chapter was recognized with following

awards:-

LGM Awards:-

• LGM Top 10 Club Award (Trophy and certificate for

adding maximum number of members)

• LGM Super Club Award (Trophy and certificate for

achieving both TI membership contest awards)

• LGM October and April Renewals (Ribbon and

certificates for timely October / April dues renewal)

• LGM Membership Building Award – Open House

Showcase (certificate)

LGET Award:-

• Club Super 7 COT Award (Ribbon and certificate for

effective officers training)

Individual Awards :- DTM Sunil Kottarathil received

LGET Passport 20 Challenge Award, LGM Start

Performer Award and LGM Special Recognition Award.

D

TM Naina Mohammed

know needs your attention. It indicates a sense of

being scrutinized, underprepared in life and fears

about self-confidence.

DEATH / LOSS OF A LOVED ONE

When someone passes away in your dream it

can signify a feeling of being disconnected or cut

off from that particular person. It may also mean

that you wish the person would go away, or that

you fear losing them. Almost dying can signal a

fear of failure.

An alternate explanation is that part of

yourself which that person happens to represent

is dead. Their loss represents a loss of that side

of you. You feel that aspect of yourself (that you

see represented by that person) is dead.

BEING CHASED BY SOMEONE

The ever-popular chase dream can be

extremely frightening. According to analysts,

dreams of this nature may denote that you are

avoiding something in your walking life and is

refusing to deal with problems. It usually

symbolizes is that you're running away from

your problems. It may be a problem at work, or it

may be something about yourself that you know

is destructive. What that problem is depends on

who is chasing you and what in your life most

closely represents the threat in your dream.

reaming is one of the most mysterious

experiences in our lives. We see dreams

as only nonsense that the brain creates

from fragments of images and memory. But

researchers & experts think that dreams are full

of symbolic messages, that may not be clear to

us on the surface. But, if we dig deeper and think

about what is going on in our lives, we can

usually come up with an interpretation that

makes sense. Researchers have even found that

majority of us have dreams with similar themes.

Let's look at the most common dream themes

and how dream experts interpret them.

First and foremost in dream theory is

Sigmund Freud. Falling into the psychological

camp, Dr. Freud's theories are based on the idea

of repressed longing - the desires that we aren't

able to express in a social setting. Dreams allow

the unconscious mind to act out those

unacceptable thoughts and desires.

Carl Jung, who studied under Freud, differed

from Freud. He agreed with the psychological

origin of dreams, but he felt that dreams allowed

us to reflect on our waking selves and solve our

problems or think through issues.

TAKING A TEST / UNPREPARED

This is a very common dream. You suddenly

realize you are supposed to be taking an exam at

that very moment. You might be running through

the hallways and can't find the classroom, (may

be your pen won't write, so you can't finish

writing your answers).

What experts say this may mean is that you're

being tested/ scrutinized about something in your

life. Or maybe you are unprepared or unable to

face the challenge/change. It may also mean

there is something you've neglected that you


TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION 2012-13


achieved Presidents

Distinguished Status for

2012-13 year with 9 / 10

DCP goals. This is the

third consecutive year the

club reaches this coveted

status.

During 2012-13 term,


actively participated in all

membership building

contest. In addition to the

regular SMEDLEY and

TALK UP

TOASTMASTERS

membership awards, the

most significant one was

being positioned at world

no. 1 in the OPEN

HOUSE SHOWCASE

event.

Since the 1+1 program

was introduced by the

then International

President John Lau, DTM,


ensured their members are

featured in each month

end report. DTM Sunil

Kottarathil was featured

each month from January

2013 till end of the

program in June 2013.

TM Sunil Kottarathil

TM Merezban Katrak

TM Manmohan Sreedhar

TM Deepa Shetty

As we have a great deal to learn

from our dreams, let us try to

understand our most frequent dream

and try to interpret what’s the message

those dreams wants to convey to us.

BEING LOST

In the dream you are trying to find your way out of an

area – such as a forest, city streets, a large building, or

other maze-like structure. Another way this dream plays

out involves you being trapped, caught in a web, or unable

to move for some other reason.

The meaning of this dream is literal. Being lost in your

dreams can mean that you are lost or nearly losing your

direction in any part of your real life- love, career,

spirituality. This dream usually means that you are

trapped in real life – unable to make the right choice.

RUNNING, BUT GOING NOWHERE

This theme can also be part of the chasing dream.

You're trying to run, but either your legs won't move or

you simply aren't going anywhere - as if you were on a

treadmill. According to some, this dream means you have

too much on your plate. You're trying to do too many

things at once and can't catch up or ever get ahead.

FALLING

You're falling, falling, falling... and then you wake up.

This is a very common dream and is said to symbolize

insecurities and anxiety. It is a sub conscious warning that

something in your life is out of control and there is nothing

you can do to stop it.

Another interpretation is that you have a sense of failure

about something. Maybe fear of losing respect or status; or

of financial difficulties; or fading physical vitality; or

losing someone's love. If you land and awaken suddenly,

it is literally a "wake-up call" to attend to matters in the

physical world. If you land but the dream continues, then

the answer to your dilemma is being given to you in that

dream.

FLYING – The Great Mythical Symbol of Freedom

Dreaming that you are flying means you are on top of

things. You are in control of the things that matter to you.

Or, maybe you've just gained a new perspective on things.

It indicates creativity, freedom and a desire to do the

impossible. It may also mean you are strong willed and

feel like no one and nothing can defeat you.

Whether it's love you seek, or a place in life, or fame

and fortune, you will fly over earthly obstacles and find

your happiness. Recurrent flying dreams indicate great

fortune.


CLUB ACHIEVEMENT 2013-14 FIRST QUARTER MEMBERSHIP BUILDING CONTEST SMEDLEY

EDUCATION AWARDS LEADERSHIP

CC (Competent Communicator)

– TM Chinmoy Ghosh

EDUCATION AWARDS COMMUNICATION

CL (Competent Leader)

– TM Deekshith Dinesh Parassini

NMC Corporate Chapter achieved 6 DCP goals during first quarter and is qualified to be

Distinguished. With a club success plan in place, closely monitored, remaining DCP goals are well on

track to finish with a perfect 10 well by end of second quarter itself.

Having completed 6 DCP goals, NMC Corporate Chapter has already secured District LGET Club

DCP Achiever Award, well before the deadline of 31st December 2013. Award includes a Ribbon for

the Club banner and Certificates for all members & Trophy for VPE for encouraging the members to

reach their goals.

Program Dates: August 1 – September 30

In honor of Ralph Smedley, can your club add five new, dual, or reinstated members between August 1 and September 30? By doing so you’ll qualify to receive a "Smedley Award" ribbon to display on your club’s banner. In addition to the ribbon, qualifying clubs earn a special discount code for 10-percent off their next club order. (The discount code expires six months from the date of issue and is not valid with any other offer.)

Applications and payments for members who join between August 1 and September 30 must be received at World Headquarters or online no later than September 30. Each member's join date as listed on the application must be for August or September. The addition of transfer and charter members does not count toward “Smedley Award” credit.

The winning clubs will be revealed online within a few weeks of the contest ending. Winning clubs should allow up to 10 business days to receive their award if they are located in the United States, and up to 21 business days if they are outside of the United States.

ACB (Advanced Communicator Bronze)

– TM Manish Bahirwani

ALB (Advanced Leader Bronze)



CLUB ACHIEVEMENT 2013-14 FIRST QUARTER MEMBERSHIP BUILDING CONTEST SMEDLEY

EDUCATION AWARDS LEADERSHIP

CC (Competent Communicator)

– TM Chinmoy Ghosh

EDUCATION AWARDS COMMUNICATION

CL (Competent Leader)

– TM Deekshith Dinesh Parassini

NMC Corporate Chapter achieved 6 DCP goals during first quarter and is qualified to be

Distinguished. With a club success plan in place, closely monitored, remaining DCP goals are well on

track to finish with a perfect 10 well by end of second quarter itself.

Having completed 6 DCP goals, NMC Corporate Chapter has already secured District LGET Club

DCP Achiever Award, well before the deadline of 31st December 2013. Award includes a Ribbon for

the Club banner and Certificates for all members & Trophy for VPE for encouraging the members to

reach their goals.

Program Dates: August 1 – September 30

In honor of Ralph Smedley, can your club add five new, dual, or reinstated members between August 1 and September 30? By doing so you’ll qualify to receive a "Smedley Award" ribbon to display on your club’s banner. In addition to the ribbon, qualifying clubs earn a special discount code for 10-percent off their next club order. (The discount code expires six months from the date of issue and is not valid with any other offer.)

Applications and payments for members who join between August 1 and September 30 must be received at World Headquarters or online no later than September 30. Each member's join date as listed on the application must be for August or September. The addition of transfer and charter members does not count toward “Smedley Award” credit.

The winning clubs will be revealed online within a few weeks of the contest ending. Winning clubs should allow up to 10 business days to receive their award if they are located in the United States, and up to 21 business days if they are outside of the United States.

ACB (Advanced Communicator Bronze)


ALB (Advanced Leader Bronze)



TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION 2012-13


achieved Presidents

Distinguished Status for

2012-13 year with 9 / 10

DCP goals. This is the

third consecutive year the

club reaches this coveted

status.

During 2012-13 term,


actively participated in all

membership building

contest. In addition to the

regular SMEDLEY and

TALK UP

TOASTMASTERS

membership awards, the

most significant one was

being positioned at world

no. 1 in the OPEN

HOUSE SHOWCASE

event.

Since the 1+1 program

was introduced by the

then International

President John Lau, DTM,


ensured their members are

featured in each month

end report. DTM Sunil

Kottarathil was featured

each month from January

2013 till end of the

program in June 2013.

TM Sunil Kottarathil

TM Merezban Katrak

TM Manmohan Sreedhar

TM Deepa Shetty

As we have a great deal to learn

from our dreams, let us try to

understand our most frequent dream

and try to interpret what’s the message

those dreams wants to convey to us.

BEING LOST

In the dream you are trying to find your way out of an

area – such as a forest, city streets, a large building, or

other maze-like structure. Another way this dream plays

out involves you being trapped, caught in a web, or unable

to move for some other reason.

The meaning of this dream is literal. Being lost in your

dreams can mean that you are lost or nearly losing your

direction in any part of your real life- love, career,

spirituality. This dream usually means that you are

trapped in real life – unable to make the right choice.

RUNNING, BUT GOING NOWHERE

This theme can also be part of the chasing dream.

You're trying to run, but either your legs won't move or

you simply aren't going anywhere - as if you were on a

treadmill. According to some, this dream means you have

too much on your plate. You're trying to do too many

things at once and can't catch up or ever get ahead.

FALLING

You're falling, falling, falling... and then you wake up.

This is a very common dream and is said to symbolize

insecurities and anxiety. It is a sub conscious warning that

something in your life is out of control and there is nothing

you can do to stop it.

Another interpretation is that you have a sense of failure

about something. Maybe fear of losing respect or status; or

of financial difficulties; or fading physical vitality; or

losing someone's love. If you land and awaken suddenly,

it is literally a "wake-up call" to attend to matters in the

physical world. If you land but the dream continues, then

the answer to your dilemma is being given to you in that

dream.

FLYING – The Great Mythical Symbol of Freedom

Dreaming that you are flying means you are on top of

things. You are in control of the things that matter to you.

Or, maybe you've just gained a new perspective on things.

It indicates creativity, freedom and a desire to do the

impossible. It may also mean you are strong willed and

feel like no one and nothing can defeat you.

Whether it's love you seek, or a place in life, or fame

and fortune, you will fly over earthly obstacles and find

your happiness. Recurrent flying dreams indicate great

fortune.

DARE TO DREAM


DISTRICT 20 RECOGNITION 2012-13

DIVISION H RECOGNITION 2012-13 Division H Annual Conference on 12

th

April 2013 was a memorable one for

members of NMC Corporate Chapter.

Among many recognitions, most

significant ones were the contest

winners TM Dr. Katrak Merezban

(Humorous second place), TM

Manmohan Sreedhar (Evaluation

second place and Table Topics third

place). DTM Sunil Kottarathil was

recognized for his support in coaching

weak clubs and was adjudged as the

toastmaster of the year.

During District 20 Annual Conference (DTAC 2013),

NMC Corporate Chapter was recognized with following

awards:-

LGM Awards:-

• LGM Top 10 Club Award (Trophy and certificate for

adding maximum number of members)

• LGM Super Club Award (Trophy and certificate for

achieving both TI membership contest awards)

• LGM October and April Renewals (Ribbon and

certificates for timely October / April dues renewal)

• LGM Membership Building Award – Open House

Showcase (certificate)

LGET Award:-

• Club Super 7 COT Award (Ribbon and certificate for

effective officers training)

Individual Awards :- DTM Sunil Kottarathil received

LGET Passport 20 Challenge Award, LGM Start

Performer Award and LGM Special Recognition Award.

D

TM Naina Mohammed

know needs your attention. It indicates a sense of

being scrutinized, underprepared in life and fears

about self-confidence.

DEATH / LOSS OF A LOVED ONE

When someone passes away in your dream it

can signify a feeling of being disconnected or cut

off from that particular person. It may also mean

that you wish the person would go away, or that

you fear losing them. Almost dying can signal a

fear of failure.

An alternate explanation is that part of

yourself which that person happens to represent

is dead. Their loss represents a loss of that side

of you. You feel that aspect of yourself (that you

see represented by that person) is dead.

BEING CHASED BY SOMEONE

The ever-popular chase dream can be

extremely frightening. According to analysts,

dreams of this nature may denote that you are

avoiding something in your walking life and is

refusing to deal with problems. It usually

symbolizes is that you're running away from

your problems. It may be a problem at work, or it

may be something about yourself that you know

is destructive. What that problem is depends on

who is chasing you and what in your life most

closely represents the threat in your dream.

reaming is one of the most mysterious

experiences in our lives. We see dreams

as only nonsense that the brain creates

from fragments of images and memory. But

researchers & experts think that dreams are full

of symbolic messages, that may not be clear to

us on the surface. But, if we dig deeper and think

about what is going on in our lives, we can

usually come up with an interpretation that

makes sense. Researchers have even found that

majority of us have dreams with similar themes.

Let's look at the most common dream themes

and how dream experts interpret them.

First and foremost in dream theory is

Sigmund Freud. Falling into the psychological

camp, Dr. Freud's theories are based on the idea

of repressed longing - the desires that we aren't

able to express in a social setting. Dreams allow

the unconscious mind to act out those

unacceptable thoughts and desires.

Carl Jung, who studied under Freud, differed

from Freud. He agreed with the psychological

origin of dreams, but he felt that dreams allowed

us to reflect on our waking selves and solve our

problems or think through issues.

TAKING A TEST / UNPREPARED

This is a very common dream. You suddenly

realize you are supposed to be taking an exam at

that very moment. You might be running through

the hallways and can't find the classroom, (may

be your pen won't write, so you can't finish

writing your answers).

What experts say this may mean is that you're

being tested/ scrutinized about something in your

life. Or maybe you are unprepared or unable to

face the challenge/change. It may also mean

there is something you've neglected that you


AREA 9

rea 9 is one of the largest Areas in the

entire District, from a geographic

perspective, with clubs located across a

span of over 200kms - from Al Ain to Abu

Dhabi and through Mussafah and Umm Al Nar.

Though Area 9 was initially comprised of Al

Ain based clubs, as all clubs except one closed

down, the Area was re-aligned to include clubs

in Abu Dhabi and Mussafah also.

Mussafah and Al-Ain Toastmasters clubs are

the only community clubs in their respective

locations. PI Toastmasters is a university club at

Petroleum Institute in Umm Al Nar. Al-Ain

Municipality club, which was a corporate Arabic

club in Al Ain municipality was suspended in

September 2013 after a year of non-functioning.

Lot of growth potential has been identified in

Mussafah area, which can be materialized

through a proper plan, in coming years.

A

Al Ain Toastmasters Meet 1

st & 3

rd

Tuesdays 7:30pm at

Tawam Hospital

Mussafah Toastmasters Meet alternate

Tuesdays 8:00pm at Malayalee Samajam

PI Toastmasters Meet 1

st & 3

rd

Tuesdays 5:30pm at Petroleum Institute

The Champion in International Speech

Contest TM Shurooq Al Banna went on to win

third place at the international conference in

August, making District 20 proud.


DIVISION H

ivision H is known for its vibrant

activities in District 20. With 28 clubs

in 6 Areas, the Division is very active

throughout. Division Conference held each

year during the month of April, is a festival for

all toastmasters.

A couple of Arabic Clubs and many

corporate and community clubs make the

Division unique in its approach and learning

through a variety of programs. Inter Division

Quiz competition conducted last year and

Fashion / Talent show planned for this year are

a few examples.

The Division supports 9 Gavel clubs which

are of great community service.

Division H is fast growing, promoting

toastmasters program at each available

opportunity. No wonder new clubs are being

chartered every year. The latest addition to

toastmasters family were the three corporate

clubs – one at Fluor and two at NBAD. This

year, there are many more new clubs, most of

them corporate clubs, being chartered.

D

or more than 800 toastmasters across the

middle east, 9-11 May 2013 were

unforgetful days as they witnessed

DTAC 2013 at Festival City, Dubai. The event

was filled with many valuable sessions

including-

- Master Key Note Speech from the

Toastmasters International President Elect Lt.

Col Mohamed Murad, DTM.

- Workshop on Speaking Skills by the 2011

World Championship Runner up – TM

Kwong Yue Yang.

- Workshop on art of using Humor in Public

Speaking – Stand up; Speak up; Shut up – by

renowned Speaker & Trainer TM Chendil

Kumar.

- A “First Timer’s Session” conducted by our

District Governor DTM Alex Ginete.

- Eight Education Sessions from Prominent

Toastmasters within the District – How to

Conquer Fear (TM Hamdah), Corporate

Dressing (TM Racquel Eder), Progress (TM

KG Guna), Hook With Humor (TM Lakhi

Sawlani), Magnificient Matra (TM Prakash

Chugani), Find the Mickey in You (TM

Royston Fernandes), Mind Mapping (TM Jijie

Zablan), Leadership is Every Toastmaster’s

Business (TM Sridhar Sampath)

Couple of Arabic Clubs, many corporate

F

NMC Corporate Chapter has a regular inflow of new members.

During the first quarter of this toastmasters year, four new members

joined the club.


NEW MEMBERS

DISTRICT 20

Many toastmasters find


very convenient due to the

club meeting timings

(Saturdays afternoon) and

positive and friendly club

atmosphere. Members from

other clubs regularly visit the

club and join to enhance their

communication and

leadership skills.

DUAL MEMBERS

TM Mahmoud Ziad Akl TM Vignesh Umashankar

TM Mohammed Shariff TM Divya Mary Daniel

TM Wilfy T Sabu, CC TM Mathew P Mathews, CC

he District 20 Toastmasters was officially

formed from term 2011-2012 following

the split of District 79. Literally, a new

addition, but factually a prime mover of the

growth of Toastmasters in the Middle East and

South Asia.

Originally associated with the historic District

79, District 20 comprises seven countries in the

Middle East, including: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman,

Qatar, UAE, Jordan and Lebanon. Historically,

Toastmasters in these seven nations were major

contributors to making the region on top of the

world stage in growth, number and dynamism.

After its official split, District 20 on its first

year, achieved the Select Distinguished District

status, having been ranked as the world’s

number 7 in 2011-2012. In 2012-2013, it has

reached the much coveted President

Distinguished District status. It has been a major

contributor to the success of Region

11. Effective July 1, 2013, the District expanded

to 15 Divisions, 64 Areas and 281 clubs.

T


THE PRESENT

Today, we claim to be the city’s only

privately owned public library, and stock the

latest issues of your favorite health and style

magazines alongside classics and best-sellers

with more than 25,000+ books and comics in

our collection. We just celebrated its 11th

anniversary. We try to bring work of different

authors and also introduce new ones, and have a

large collection of work from Asian authors. A

constant struggle is still going on to keep the

price to the minimum so booklovers from all the

walks of society can enjoy reading.

FUTURE PLANS

More and more books are being added to the

collection and it is a continuous process, as the

world is so enriched with authors. We wish to

expand to larger and open space, without

bringing any extra cost to the booklovers.

PERSONAL THOUGHT

I am happy that I chose to ignore all the

negative criticism that I initially got. I became a

stronger person and was able to put a strong

front and fulfill not only my dream but provide

and fulfill the desire of many other booklovers.

I am thankful to the Almighty and hope and

pray to keep spreading the light of knowledge

and bring a smile on every face.

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL

With over 292,000 members in 14,350 clubs across 122 countries, Toastmasters International is a world leader in communication and leadership development. For administration purposes, the clubs are structured in 90 districts with 14 Regions worldwide.

Director

WITH SOCIETY AND MEDIA

On International Women’s day 2009, we

were awarded by Dhwani for contribution to the

society. Through the books, which we have

collected or which were donated by the

members, we have helped and supported various

charity organizations such as Medicines Sans

Frontiers UAE & Operation Smile Book

Collection Challenge (VIAD).

To encourage reading in the young Al

Shaheen Library, join hands with various

organizations such as Toastmasters, Indian

Social Center and Women’s Forum, to name a

few. We welcome any organization who would

like to gift the world of books to its personnel or

guest.

In January 2011, we featured in BBC

Business world-Middle East as a small non

profitable business Apart from this, through the

years, the library featured in various local media

such as Gulf News, The National, Abu Dhabi

Week and Time Out Magazine.

OUR COLLECTION

Our collection is not limited - we try our best

to provide materials which in enjoyed by all. We

do include books of members choice and those

which have been requested by them. To give

ease of access to the collection, it is divided into

sections such as Action Zone, Heart Beats,

Special Selection, Teens Treasures, Kids

Korner, Cartoon Corner and Magazine Mazza.

There are monthly issues of the various

magazines such as Reader’s Digest, Health,

Prevention, Stardust, Film Fare, Cine Blitz,

Savvy, Women’s Era, Femina, New Women,

Time, India Today, Society Etc.

TO BE A MEMBER

One just needs to be a booklover to join the

library facilities. There are various schemes to

suit all ages, which will help make reading an

enjoyable and cost-less experience. For

booklovers who do not wish to be a member,

can borrow too, but on slightly different terms.

The facilities of the Al Shaheen Library are

easily accessible.

CELEBRATION 250th

MEETING


Buying a few books. After one year, I

seriously thought of closing it. With financial

losses and bad attitude of few people, I was

mentally dejected.

I was about to give up, but then I thought of

all those children and their excitement when

they would take a book, and all those ladies

who were happy to get hold of a good book.

Some of them had become good friends of

mine. No, just for handful of unpleasant

people, how could I take away this small

pleasure that I was able to give them? How

they blessed me for starting the library. Yes, I

got criticism but at the same time I also got

encouragement from many.

So instead of quitting, I decided to

implement a positive change by introducing

some strict rules. This way I was able to filter

and get only true booklovers. I also managed to

get a dedicated staff and kept the library open

in the mornings too. This way many ladies

were happy to join in, as it was more easier for

them to visit the library during the day time.

Also, a close eye was kept on the books.

Yes, money was also another reason. But

whenever I was able to save some money,

unlike most of the ladies who are happy

shopping for dress and jewelry, I would run to

buy a book and add it to my collection. I was

very keen on increasing my collection. Family,

friends and now even members started to

contribute books. Our friends, Asis and

Matilda, encouraged us to add magazines to

our collection. Many ideas were shared and

implemented. Soon it became Al-Shaheen

Library… a reader's club, for the booklovers,

by the booklovers.

EVER GROWING

With monthly issues of magazines and the

largest collection of Mills & Boons and

Archie’s Comics, to name a few, with an

exclusive section for kids and teens collection,

romantic, action, fiction, self-help, memoirs,

cooking books along with a huge collection of

various comics, it was just not possible to load

them all in our small shop, thus on 27 May

2009, we moved into a bigger place.

some books. I put up all my childhood

collections. My sons and brother also contributed

their own collections. Thus, with a dream and

support from my family, Abu Dhabi's first

private library, Al-Shaheen Library, was started

on 02-Oct-02. It’s a readers club!!

THE BEGINNING

We had just four hundred books to start with

and it was managed by our family of four. For

the first two years the library was opened only in

the evenings during week days, as both my

husband, Akhtar and I were working. During the

summer holidays and week-end, my sons, Anwar

and Asif would take turns to open it in the

mornings. The starting was very slow, as many

were not aware of its existence. We tried various

ways of making it known, like distributing

pamphlets in schools and in supermarket.

As I wanted all class of people to enjoy

reading, the charges were kept very nominal.

Slowly, we had people coming in. But soon, I

realized that my books started to go missing. Not

only that, I came across some people whose only

intention to come to library was to take out their

frustration and most would compare with the

prices with the libraries back home. We realized

that the purchase of books here in this country

were much more expensive. In addition, there

was the ever increasing rent. Very few realized

that it was worthwhile having a membership than

buying few books. After one year, I seriously

E

CLUB OFFICERS INSTALLATION


TM Aisha Lakdawala

member’s

SUCCESS story

CLUB REGULAR MEETINGS

ach member of NMC Corporate Chapter

has a success story to tell. TM Aisha

Lakdawala has travelled through a path

less travelled, thus making it very special. Here

is the inspiring story of TM Aisha, founder and

CEO of Al Shaheen Library, unfolded in her own

words.

THE EARLY YEARS

After coming to Abu Dhabi in April 1989, I

was not only missing my family and my friends

but also my best companion, as they were no

private libraries in Abu Dhabi. Yes I missed

reading; I missed all those lovely books which

had made me laugh and cry and had inspired me.

HOW WE STARTED

Nearly fourteen years later, it was the summer

of 2002 when my brother Faisal visited us. He

inspired us to set our own library and even

contributed his own collection of books. Thus

one day, armed with a small budget which

included our savings, I approached the

authorities. At first it was difficult to explain, as

this project was the first of its kind. Once I was

understood, a kind gentleman advised me not to

start this, as this business will not be profitable. I

was not sure how to explain to him - that I was

not doing this to fill up my coffers, but to fulfill

my desire and passion.

With the remaining money, I managed to buy

some books plus I put up all my childhood


PRESIDENT – SUNIL KOTTARATHIL, DTM

Responsible for fulfilling the mission of the club. Sets the tone

for the club, provides helpful, supportive leadership for all the

club’s activities. Motivate, make peace and facilitate as required.

Preside over meetings, Earn Distinguished Club Recognition,

Serves as club’s representative at district and international levels.

CLUB OFFICERS for 2013-14

VP EDUCATION – MANISH BAHIRWANI, ACB ALB Responsible for planning, organizing and directing a club

program which meets the educational needs of the individual

members. Important source of Toastmasters knowledge for club

members. Coordinate club schedule, Assist with education

awards, Plan speech contest, Manage mentor program.

VP PUBLIC RELATIONS – DIPTI SUGANDH

Responsible for developing and directing a publicity program

that informs individual members and the general public about

Toastmasters International. Publicize the club, Keep club

website current, Safeguard the Toastmasters Brand.

VP MEMBERSHIP – AAKANT TAURANI, CC Responsible for planning, organizing and directing a program that

ensures individual member retention and growth in club

individual membership. Promote the club and manage the process

of bringing in guests and transforming them into members. Assist

guests, Process membership applications.

SECRETARY – PURVI MEHTA Responsible for club records and correspondence. Keeps an

accurate record of the meetings and activities of the club,

maintains an accurate and complete roster of individual members

of the club and transmits the same to the successor in office.

TREASURER – DEEPA SHETTY Responsible for club financial policies, procedures and controls.

Receives and disburses all club funds, pays to Toastmasters

International all financial obligations of the club as they come

due, keeps an accurate account of all transactions. Transmits the

accounts and all undistributed funds to the successor in office.

SERGEANT AT ARMS – VISHAK BALAKRISHNAN Responsible for club property management, meeting room

preparation, and hospitality. Keeps track of the club’s physical

property, such as the banner, lectern, timing device and other

meeting materials (ballot papers, trophies etc).

IMM. PAST PRESIDENT – RAMESH TAURANI, ACB CL Guides the club officers with his experience during last term.

Assist the club in implementing best practices and lessons learnt

from previous term. Chairs Nominating Committee and assist in

club succession plan.

REVITALIZED EDUCATION PROGRAM

s the world changes, Toastmasters

International is changing with it. To that

end, the organisation is revitalizing its

education program to give members more

opportunities to learn and grow. This project,

one of the organization’s most significant in

recent memory, will culminate in the second half

of 2014 with the launch of a new education

program.

The first step of this journey began with the

Board of Directors’ 2010 Strategic Plan, which

called for a renewed focus on leadership and a

modernized communication program. Since

then, the existing program has been thoroughly

research and analyzed, surveys have been

conducted with current and former members,

and Board committees have focused on

identifying the skills, competencies and

attributes learned through the education

program, and helped to guide a project plan for

the updated program.

The revitalized program will offer a clearer

path for achieving education awards. In

addition, a greater emphasis will be placed on

developing relevant, real-world communication

and leadership skills in a globally evolving

marketplace. The traditional core of our



Achievement and recognition remain at the heart

of the process; however, the organization is taking

the learning experience to the next level.

Technology will become a powerful tool. The

revitalized program will marshal and refine online

resources to boost self-directed learning.

Over the next year there is a tremendous

amount of work to be done to ensure that the

program meets the goals and objectives of all

members and remains true to the foundation of the

organization. After an extensive search, a

curriculum development and instructional design

vendor was selected to assist Toastmasters in

designing new, interactive education content by

synthesizing the work previously conducted.

To ensure that the revitalized education

program meets members’ needs, complements the

club experience, exceeds expectations and remains

authentic to the culture of the organization, more

than 1,800 members have volunteered to

participate in the project.

A

TOASTMASTERS TIMELINE

Since 1924, Toastmasters has been thriving. Take a look at some of the major moments related to education program, Toastmasters has experienced along the way.

1928 October - The first Manual for Toastmasters Clubs is copyrighted by Ralph Smedley. Today this is called the Club Management Handbook.

1936 - Dr. Ralph C. Smedley published a mimeograph pamphlet entitled Constructive Criticism. This material soon became a printed booklet and was later renamed Speech Evaluation.

1950 - The Beyond Basic Training manual, with 16 projects, was introduced to provide advanced speech training for members.

1969 August - The Communication and Leadership Program manual is introduced at the International Convention in Cleveland, Ohio

1978 January - The multi-manual Advanced Communication and Leadership Program is introduced.

1984 July - The Communication and Leadership Program manual is revised, and two new educational awards are introduced: the Able Toastmaster Bronze (ATM-B) and Able Toastmaster Silver (ATM-S).

1997 January - The revised Communication and Leadership Program manual is introduced.

1997 July - An improved two-track educational recognition system begins.

2006 January - The Competent Leadership manual is introduced.

2006 July - Award titles in the communication track are renamed, and the leadership track is strengthened and expanded to include the Competent Leader, Advanced Leader Bronze and Advanced Leader Silver awards.

2009 July - The Toastmasters Learning Connection (TLC), an e-learning education platform, is launched.


Club Mission

We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.

Toastmasters International Mission

We empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.

Toastmasters International Values

� INTEGRITY � RESPECT � SERVICE � EXCELLENCE

Toastmasters International Envisioned Future

To be the first-choice provider of dynamic, high-value, experiential communication and leadership skills development.

District Mission

We build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence.

A Toastmaster’s Promise

As a member of Toastmasters International and my club, I promise

� To attend club meetings regularly

� To prepare all of my speech and leadership projects to the best of my ability, basing them on projects in the Competent Communication, Advanced Communication, or Competent Leadership manuals

� To prepare for and fulfill meeting assignments

� To provide fellow members with helpful, constructive evaluations

� To help the club maintain the positive, friendly environment necessary for all members to learn and grow

� To serve my club as an officer when called upon to do so

� To treat my fellow club members and our guests with respect and courtesy

� To bring guests to club meetings so they can see the benefits Toastmasters membership offers

� To adhere to the guidelines and rules for all Toastmasters education and recognition programs

� To maintain honest and highly ethical standards during the conduct of all Toastmasters activities

Learning Masters:-

Learning Masters are a group of 280 members who

bring their experience and provide input into the

program while keeping it grounded in the time-

honored Toastmasters traditions of delivering prepared

speeches at club meetings, giving and receiving

evaluations, and recognizing achievements. Led by

Past International President Pat Johnson, Learning

Masters will work hand-in-hand with the development

team as representatives of the membership at large.

They will:

• Share their experience of learning through

Toastmasters

• Provide input about what they would like to see

in a Revitalized Education Program

• Validate assumptions of learning ideas and tools

as the project progresses

• Be the first to try out the updated program as beta

testers

Following three Learning Masters are appointed by

Toastmasters International from District 20:

• Rajagopalan K Nambiar (UAE)

• Ramesh Anantharaman (UAE)

• Zishan Beg (Bahrain)

Ambassadors:-

More than 1,500 members will serve as

Ambassadors. One Chief Ambassador represents each

district and oversees one Ambassador for every 10

clubs within the district. Chief Ambassadors lead their

teams in educating members about the revitalized

program, providing progress updates, explaining the

program’s enhancements and benefits, and visiting

clubs to spread the word and answer member

questions. Ambassadors will provide updates to club

members on a regular basis throughout the year.

Radhakrishnan Karantharath, DTM is selected to

serve as Chief Ambassador for District 20.

The Ambassadors will:

• Educate other members about the revitalized program

• Provide updates as the project progresses

• Explain the program’s enhancements

• Spread the word about its benefits for Toastmasters

• Visit clubs and answer members’ questions

• Work closely with the Chief Ambassador to share

member feedback and questions

From the Desk of the editor

he summer is over, winter is yet to come,

but the toastmasters journey continues.

This year is very special to NMC

Corporate Chapter, as we are climbing one more

step towards our sustainable club goal. When

the club started the process of recovery in 2010,

we had a clear plan in mind. Making the club

self sufficient and strong from the weak position

that it was in, was not an easy task. But, a step

by step approach, with the support of its pillar

members, catapulted the club to a level, which

each of the members are proud of, today. A

combination of determination, dedication and

selfless approach from the members who stood

by the club made it a reality. The club continues

to be Presidents Distinguished.

After a gap of two years, the Corporate Voice

is reaching out to our members again, with a

new look – following Toastmasters re-branding

guidelines. Accordingly, we have included some

of the proud moments of the previous year in

this issue. The 250th

meeting celebration (Page

24) and achievements of last year (Page 18) will

surely bring back sweet memories to our

members.

NMC Corporate Chapter is proud of their

member’s achievements. We are not only

inspired by each other’s success story (Page 8),

but also celebrate those special moments of their

life (Page 31). A club for the members and by

the members - each member is special in our

club. Together, we continue to grow.

Happiness keeps you smiling, Success keeps

you glowing, Attitude keeps you going. As the

NMC tagline goes, TOGETHER WE SMILE…

together we spread smiles..

T

Since 2010, NMC

Corporate Chapter and

Spectrum Toastmasters

Club conduct joint

meeting during summer –

an effective way to tackle

the low attendance during

the vacation time, when

most of the toastmasters

take their annual vacation.

JOINT CLUB MEETING

s schools over UAE head for their summer

vacation, parents also plan their annual

leave. Thus, it is common for toastmasters

clubs to experience low turn out during club

meetings in July-August time. Some of the clubs

even suspend their regular meetings during this

period as they are not even able to fill the basic

minimum meeting roles to conduct a meeting.

By accepting the reality and planning in

advance, this challenge can be faced and

mitigated without any stress. Joint meetings is

an ideal solution to tackle low attendance.

The extra people and energy from these joint

meeting can double the fun.

A

CORPORATE VOICE OCTOBER 2013 5 28 NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER - WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE Sunil Kottarathil, DTM

Editor, Publisher –

“Corporate Voice”


From the Desk of the area governor

rea 9 is one of the largest Areas in the entire

District, from a geographic perspective, with

clubs located across a span of over 200kms –

from Al Ain to Abu Dhabi and through Mussafah

and Umm Al Nar.

Having set our feet firmly on the ground, it was

time to expand our service to the community. What

else, we reckoned could be better than spreading

the benefits of Toastmasters educational program

to more around us? Though geographically

challenged, our main goal this year will be to

provide guidance and support to all clubs and to

ensure they follow the toastmasters guidelines

effectively so that the members gain maximum

benefit from the program.

NMC Corporate Chapter Club was chartered on

13th

December 2001 under the patronage of Dr. B.

R. Shetty. Over the last nine years, right from the

time TM Sudhir Shetty took over the reins, the

club has always been in the limelight and at

present, it is at its peak. Presently, meetings are

conducted in the huge well equipped basement

auditorium of NMC Specialty Hospital. Very few

clubs are privileged to have such a spacious and

better equipped venue for a meeting.

The club has proved its versatility –

communication and leadership skills – by actively

participating and promoting toastmasters program

for the benefit of the community. Let us continue

our service to society and make more leaders

around us…

“If you can dream it,

you can do it” – Walt Disney

A


Joint meetings are a great way to

learn from each other. Each club has

formed a way of functioning over the

years. Experiencing the different

ways a club functions is the best way

to learn the best practices that can be

adopted in a club. Spectrum and

NMC Corporate Chapter has

immensely benefitted from these

joint meetings and both clubs put

their best practices into practice to

grow further.

Let us continue the long term

association for a bright future.

Dr. Katrak Merezban, ACS ALB

Area 9 Governor

ACHIEVING

GREATNESS

TOGETHER


Meeting Date Best Speaker Best Evaluator Best Table Topics

261 13 July, 2013 Deekshith Manmohan Sreedhar Archana Manmohan

262 27 July, 2013 Chinmoy Ghose Anoop OK -

263 3 Aug, 2013 Manish Bahirwani Sunil Kottarathil Vivek Balakrishnan

264 17 Aug, 2013 Ramachandra Naina Mohammed Deekshith

265 31 Aug, 2013 Chinmoy Ghose Dr. Katrak Merezban Manmohan Sreedhar

266 14 Sept, 2013 Manish Bahirwani Manmohan Sreedhar Dr. Katrak Merezban

267 28 Sept, 2013 Deepa Shetty Manmohan Sreedhar Naina Mohammed

268 5 Oct, 2013 Divya Daniel Manmohan Sreedhar Dr. Kiran Kumar Rai

contents

2

4

5

6

7

11

12

16

18

24

26

30

31

METICULOUS (mɪˈtɪkjʊləs) adjective

Showing great attention to detail, Very careful

and precise.

REJUVENATE (rɪˈdʒuːvəneɪt) verb

Make (someone or something) look or feel

better, younger, or more vital.

BANAL (bəˈnɑːl,-ˈnal) adjective

So lacking in originality as to be obvious or

boring.

CURIOUS (kjʊərɪəs) adjective

Eager to know or learn something, inquisitive,

intrigued.

CONTRIVE (kənˈtrʌɪv) verb

Create or bring about (an object or a situation)

by deliberate use of skill and artifice.

DEVIOUS (diːvɪəs) adjective

Showing a skillful use of underhand tactics to

achieve goals.

EARNEST (əːnɪst) adjective

Resulting from or showing sincere and intense

conviction.


articles

Meeting Date

269 19 Oct, 2013

270 2 Nov, 2013

271 16 Nov, 2013

272 30 Nov, 2013

273 14 Dec, 2013

274 28 Dec, 2013

Upcoming events

to watch out for WORDS OF THIS QUARTER

8-10 Success Story

October 2013, Issue 1

District Alignment

Area Governor’s

Message

Editorial

About Toastmasters

Club Officers

New Members

DTAC 2013

Achievements – First

Quarter

Achievements – Past

Year

Moments Captured

Revitalized Education

Program

Upcoming Events

Moments of Joy

28 Achieve Greatness

Together Benefits of Combined Meetings

14 Dare to Dream

HALL OF FAME

REGULAR CLUB MEETINGS

• JUDGES TRAINING:-

On 8th

November 2013 at Al Rimal Club

Judges and Chief Judges Training Session to

assist toastmasters to prepare for upcoming

contest season.

• FASHION AND TALENT SHOW:-

On 15th

November 2013 at GASCO Auditorium

An entertainment event filled with ladies /

gents fashion show, stand up comedy, singing

competition etc.

• BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN:-

On 23rd

and 30th

November at Abu Dhabi

Blood Bank. Organised by NMC Community

Chapter.

DIVISION PROGRAMS

20 Going Beyond Our Club

2 NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER - WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE CORPORATE VOICE AUGUST 2013 31

DISTRICT 20

Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, UAE

DIVISION H

Abu Dhabi and Al-Ain

AREA 2 AREA 9 AREA 26 AREA 55 AREA 11 AREA 23

Abu Dhabi

Chapter

NMC

Corporate Basharia

NMC Community

Al Jazira Millennium

Achievers Al Ain Abjad Inner

Universe Spectrum

Abu Dhabi

ICAI

Ro’Yah Al Ain

Municipality Intilaaqah KERA ISC Humoroids

Al

Riyadah Mussafah

Abu Dhabi

Refinery

Velosian

Abu Dhabi

ETA ASCON

STAR OUR

NBAD

AFAQ PI NBAD One

FML AD TEAM VOICE

DIVISION

A C K

Bahrain

DIVISION

N

Jordan, Lebanon

DIVISION

G I M O

Kuwait

DIVISION

D L

Oman

DIVISION

E

Qatar

DIVISION

B F H J

UAE

Moments of Joy

here are many defining moments in our

lives that we cherish. Most of them we

capture and frame in our hearts to take

out later and breath in the joy again and again.

Life becomes lively as we take moments of joy

to our heart. It is a pleasure to remind our dear

and near ones with those defining moments and

make their lives more lively.

NMC Corporate Chapter is particular in

celebrating happy moments of each and every

club member.

It is a regular practice for the club to

announce special moments in members life and

celebrate.

T

October 28th

was a memorable day for TM

Mahmoud Akl, as he became the proud father of

baby boy Suleiman. His smile conveys his

happiness. We, NMC Corporate Chapter join

Mahmoud in this happy moment and wish him

continuous happiness in life.

TM Vignesh Udayshankar steps on to a new

milestone in his life as he gets engaged with Ms.

Vijaya Bharathe at Chennai on 14th

October 2013.

NMC Corporate Chapter wish TM Vignesh and Ms

Vijaya all the very best for a happy married life.

ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 2013 QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER OF NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER TOASTMASTERS CLUB-4066, AREA-9, DIVISION-H, DISTRICT-20

ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 2013 CLUB-4066, AREA-9, DIVISION-H, DISTRICT-20

QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER OF NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER TOASTMASTERS CLUB

WHERE LEADERS ARE MADE

NMC CORPORATE CHAPTER WE MEET ALTERNATE SATURDAYS

AT NMC SPECIALTY HOSPITAL BUILDING, ELECTRA STREET, ABU DHABI

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Documents

Nmc Toastmasters newsletter Oct 2013