I joined the Khimar Toastmasters Club meeting out of curiosity. I had heard of Toastmasters before but was interested in something other than public speaking. Not because I didn’t find it helpful but because I had no confidence to stand and speak in front of strangers.
I thought people would join the Toastmasters Club because they are good at public speaking. As I later discovered, it’s quite the opposite. You join because you need to gain the skills and aspire to learn.
After the initial meetings, I decided to take the leap of faith and join despite feeling insecure. I saw some other women presenting their speeches, beaming confidently, and I wanted to feel the same way when I spoke publicly.
After almost two years with the Club, my experience has been highly positive. I found myself in the company of kindred spirits, seeking personal growth and self-improvement.
The club members warmly welcome everyone, creating a nurturing environment that encouraging experimentation and learning. I improved my public speaking skills and developed confidence, not to mention friendships with women far beyond Australia, as our Club is international.
My pre-teen daughter Layla has witnessed me joining monthly online meetings, presenting my speeches, and even entering public speaking competitions.
She knew I was finding this out of my comfort zone and challenging, especially in the beginning.
Once I realised the program’s benefits, I wanted Layla to experience the same and enrolled her in a public speaking workshop. Thankfully, she enjoyed it and was happy to try her luck competing when an opportunity presented itself.
Firstly, Layla competed at the school level at the International French School of Sydney – in the French language (Layla is fluent in French and English). And then, when she transferred to the Australian public high school, Layla represented the school at the NSW Department of Education 2023 Legacy Junior Public Speaking Competition.
Layla’s prepared speech was about the lack of diverse representation on Australian television and how this needs to change. Layla also performed well in the impromptu section, during which she was given only 5 minutes to prepare a 2-minute speech.
It was a highly competitive event with public, selective and private school students. Layla’s next competition is at the FINALS of Speaking Schools Australasia Rising Voices Public Speaking Championship 2023. Let’s wish her good luck!
As I gain confidence in my public speaking abilities, I watch Layla flourish alongside me. Our love for public speaking strengthened our bond as we became pillars of support for each other on our shared journey.
Our journey proves that age, experience, or past failures cannot limit one’s pursuit of personal growth and transformation.
Ultimately, it wasn’t just about the trophies won, or the applause received; it was about the courage to step onto the stage, face the world with vulnerability, and transform oneself.
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