The Exordium of Central Colombo Toastmasters

The Exordium: the beginning, the introduction, the first step of a gigantic journey; Central Colombo Toastmasters Club (CCTMC) stood on the precipice of change on July 11.

It was a moment of celebration as Exordium 2021, the first-ever installation and induction ceremony of CCTMC, took place marking a dazzling era for the club. Skilled and talented young leaders received new responsibilities with great enthusiasm, driven by immense passion to enrich the community as great speakers and leaders. EXORDIUM 2021 was adorned by the graceful presence of several distinguished leaders and mentors in the Toastmasters fraternity, invitees, guests, friends, and well-wishers.

Central Colombo Toastmasters Club was chartered on February 1 this year, under the leadership of DTM Arshad Nizam as the Charter President. Club is a part of Area B2, Division B, District 82 of Toastmasters International which includes all clubs in Sri Lanka. The club claims ownership of an exuberant member base which represents students, undergraduates, professionals as well as experienced toastmasters, who are mastering the art of public speaking at their own levels of progress. Each CCTMC meeting is planned with it new opportunities and experiences that help club members and guests to learn to face their fears and overcome their vulnerabilities in public speaking.

The charter club executive committee was guided by many experienced toastmasters under a very challenging set up. Since its inception the club has grown in many ways clenching the ‘Select Distinguished Club’ title.

As CCTMC turned over a new page, a memory video was shared to have a sizable look on what was written before - before this new beginning. This took the limelight of the event as it was full of memories, love, and embarrassment.

District Director of District 82, DTM Srianthie Salgado, shared her energy and enthusiasm for a lasting change in participants’ toastmasters’ journey by reminding the amazing opportunities readied for Toastmasters to inspire and be inspired.

The keynote address was given by Mr. Mevan Peiris, who is a freelance Business Pivot Consultant, serving on the Advisory Council of the Worldwide Global Shapers Community. Enhancing the splendor of the event, he shared a meaningful and encouraging message to all our toastmasters who were present at the event. It was not just a keynote speech, as toastmasters are not just speakers but also leaders, he gave a holistic approach covering various facets on how to become a better leader. As he shared there’s no secret sauce or recipe, simple characteristics such as being initiative, responsible and accountable will lead you to become a good leader.

Induction of charter members and new club members was another important task prior to installing club officers and it was conducted by TM Sanara Premaratne and TM Kasun Illangaratne, the Area directors of Areas I3 & G3, respectively.

This year’s executive committee was installed by the Area Director of Area B2, TM Hashini Silva and the committee will be head by TM Praveen Nanayakkara (President) along with TM Nishedha Indraratne (Vice President-Education), TM Zainab Niyas (Vice President-Membership), TM Uditha Weerasinghe (Vice President-Public Relations), TM Ramalka Kasige (Secretary), TM Nathasha Silva (Treasurer) and TM Pasindu Silva (Sergeant at Arms).

The evening took off with the dashing President elect, TM Praveen Nanayakkara’s speech.

“It is a privilege to take up presidency. We will strive to assist our members to be the best they can be while keeping the club pace at a healthy rate as well,” said TM Praveen.

There is a saying; “Let the good times be never ending”. But it was time to drop the anchor to yet another momentous evening of CCTMC. They have raised the bar this far and they can make it through whatever comes next. But the CCTMC family will always find its ways to keep the bonds together and share the warmth through all hurdles in their journey. As the party ended, members toasted for the new beginning, saying cheers to many more productive toastmasters’ years and beyond.

The executive committee and the members invite you to embark on an exciting Toastmasters journey to boost your confidence and public speaking skills as Central Colombo Toastmasters Club, facilitate all potential enthusiastic speakers to break through their barriers and get on the right track. All are welcome to experience the bliss of sheer contentment in voice.