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District 41

Oration 2014

District: 41

April/2014 – Vol 10

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1 Editorial – Page 2

2 District Governor’s

Message – Page 3

3 Interview - Farida D’SilvaDias, DTM - Page 6

4 Why attend a Conference- Prasad Sovani, DTM- Page13

5 District 41 Elections -Page 17

6 Nominated leaders - Page19

7 Contributors – Page 25

TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL

NEWSLETTER

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Umesh Agashe, CC, ALBEditor–Newsletter,2013-14Toastmasters InternationalDistrict 41

If you would like tocontribute to the e –Newsletter, or havesuggestions forimprovements, pleaseprovide your insights, emailyour views, feedback,suggestions at

agashe.umesh@gmail.com

Editorial

Umesh Agashe, CC, ALBI always wonder how a champion speaker prepares for the nextToastmasters International speech contest. What practices are followedconsistently to present that unique performance after one year? A championspeaker also must be facing thousands of distractions which we all faceevery day. No time for reading, no time for internalizing learning’s, no timefor connecting with Toastmasters, no time for attending meetings regularly,so on and so forth. And yet some drive the change and make it to thevictory stand.

I think the best way to understand how they present winning speeches,eloquent evaluations, and demonstrate excellent leadership skills is to getassociated with them, and observe them. By association one can imbibe alot, by imitation one can learn, by observation one can take the directionthey are taking.

Along with attending club meetings regularly, we can consistently attendconferences. Toastmasters’ conference is the best way to learn fromchampion speakers, professional trainers and get connected with numerousToastmasters. In this issue of District 41 E – Newsletter, we bring you aninterview of the Conference Chair of Oration 2014, Farida D’Silva Dias, DTM.

Learn about process of electing leaders for the next term (2014-15) in anaddress by District Governor Prasad Sovani, DTM. We have also presentedprofiles of nominated Toastmaster leaders for the term July 2014 to June2015.

Happy reading,Umesh Agashe, CC, ALBEditor, Newsletter, District-41

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Register Now

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Prasad Sovani, DTM,District Governor 2013-14,District 41, ToastmastersInternational.

He is a communicationevangelist. By professionhe is a corporate trainerand has successfullytrained many students totheir satisfaction in India,Singapore, and Brazil.

You may write to him atprasad.sovani@gmail.com

Dear friends,

Hi! We all joined Toastmasters some time back because we became awareof the club through some friend, family member, colleague or a stranger.We always wanted to thank that person. Even those who learnt aboutToastmasters through a website or an advertisement must appreciate thefact that someone had taken the trouble to create that. (I joined due to ahoarding in the pre-internet days). We have benefitted immensely due tothe efforts of that person. We cannot thank that person enough, perhapsnever! Perhaps you may not even know the name of the person who createdthe advertisement.

Can we stop there, feeling bad about the fact that we cannot pay back?Can’t we do something better than that? If we cannot pay back, we candefinitely pay it forward! If we have benefitted from this movement, we canensure that more human beings benefit from it and that is the way we canpay it forward! I would even say it is our moral responsibility to pay itforward!

Friends, please invite your friends, relatives and colleagues to join yourclub! Invite your bosses, your peers, your juniors to join the club! Inviteyour vendors, your clients, your partners to join the club! And even invitestrangers to join the club!

Toastmasters International runs a campaign to add members each year inthe months of May and June and that is called “Beat the Clock!” Clubsadding 5 members (New, dual or reinstated) get special recognition underthis program. The District is launching a special campaign to support thisprogram.

It is called, Win-Win!

A club adding 5+ members (New, dual or reinstated) between 1st May 2014and 14th May 2014, as per Toastmasters International time (PacificStandard Time), which means Indian Standard Time of 12.31 pm of 1st May2014 to 12.30 pm of 15th May 2014 will get the vouchers as below:

Members added Voucher worth Rs5-9 040010-14 100015-19 180020+ 2500Maximum in the district(Must be 20 or above)

One registration for thenext conference*

*Registration for the next district conference can be used for any member ofthat club and is not transferable outside the club.

Please note that multiple clubs can win vouchers worth 400~2500, but onlyone club can win the award for maximum in the district. In the event of tie,the club that achieves 20 earlier wins the award! These vouchers can beredeemed against any of the following as per the value earned:

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Award item Redeemable value RsSpecial timer’s lamp system and a timing device 450Access to watch one WCPS semi-final for one yearcurrently on sale as per TI notification

9.99 $ (Approx. Rs 625)

Club flag with club name 400A plaque with club name and award details 400

Plus the District Governor’s office will send a letter to the head of the organization for a corporate / collegeclub and to a person of the club’s choice for a community club. This is entirely a Win-Win situation! Themembers get to watch WCPS (World Championship of Public Speaking) semi-finals (of better quality thanfinals usually).

As I had written in the newsletter for September 2013 (please click here to check the newsletter). Pleaserefer page 4 nearer to the bottom portion of the page. I reproduce the essence of that.. {The quality ofsemi-finals is far better that that of finals. Each semi-finalist has to prepare 2 speeches which aresubstantially different from each other. So, a contestant may prepare A and B and let’s say, in his ownopinion, A is better than B…. The contestants typically want to use A for semi-finals since they will be outof the contest if they use B and the others use A. So all of them end up using their best speeches for thesemi-finals}

The clubs gets new members, new friends who bring in a variety and the movement gets more members,some of whom may stay lifelong! The current members, who bring in new members, get lifelong admirers!

So Beat the Clock and win, nay, Win-Win!

-Prasad Sovani, DTMDistrict 41 Governor, 2013-14

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An interview with ConferenceChair, ORATION 2014,Division Governor – DivisionI, District 41, Farida D’SilvaDias, DTM

She is MBA, MA, CTRTCFaculty Instructor, WilliamGlasser Institute, USA,Centre for Reality TherapyIndia (CTRI), BehavioralConsultant and Trainer,Clinical Psychologist atJeevan Community Centre

You may write to her atjeevancommunity@gmail.com

Division Governor – Division I, Conference Chair –Oration 2014

Farida D’Silva Dias, DTM

Q: Tell us something about yourself. How did you come to knowabout Toastmasters and since when are you a member?A: I am a practicing Clinical Psychologist and a Behavioral and Soft SkillsTrainer, working from a Social Service center, Jeevan Community Centre,started by me in 2005. In addition, I am a Sr. Faculty Instructor of theWilliam Glasser Institute, USA, certified to certify others in RealityTherapy – an 18 month part time Counselling course. But Toastmasters isa very important activity in my life.

It all started in Kuwait (where I lived and worked for 25 years), in 2002,when I was literally dragged to the “Kuwait Toastmasters” Club meeting,with a promise from my colleague that it would add an especial vitality tomy life. She was absolutely right. The first meeting won me over; Isigned up immediately and since then every encounter with Toastmastershas been blissful, always leaving me with wanting more and more. Eventhough I was 58 years old then – I felt like a teenager all over again.

What a self-discovery – I could actually keep an audience mesmerized,nostalgic, and laughing. My Ice Breaker – “Make a Difference” wasawarded the Best Speaker for the evening and from then on my enginewas at top speed.

The initial highlight of my euphoria was attending District 79P (UAE,Jordan, Qatar, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia) Gulf Toastmasters AnnualConference (GTAC) in 2002 and 2003 – a learning platform that left meawestruck and enthralled. However the focal point of my euphoric affairwith Toastmasters was when I contested and stood First for Area 1(Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Jordan) and then First Runner Up at theDistrict International Speech Contest in 2004.

I returned to India with the same zest in 2005 and was determined tostart a Toastmaster Club in Goa …. It was a long journey of challengesand we eventually started the Goa YMCA Toastmasters Club in 2010 – wenow have five clubs in Goa. My journey has taken me from President, toArea Governor, to Division Governor. One cannot ever stop…the affairmust go on!

Q: What is Oration 2014?A: Oration is the National Annual Conference of ToastmastersInternational in India, for Toastmasters from District 41 (comprising all ofIndia except the 3 southern states), where each year people converge atone place, united by a common interest of self-development.

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This year, Goa is hosting the Oration Conference from 16 May until 18 May 2014, with a difference, whereyou can Surf with the Speakers, Bask with the Leaders and Sizzle with the Educators.

Q: What are the highlights of Oration 2014?A: Two fiercely competitive contests displaying exceptional communication skills through the Internationalspeech and speech evaluation contests are the main highlights of the conference. However, it is the firstyear that we will hold the Semi Finals of both contests at the International Centre Goa (ICG), Dona Paul,Panaji, and the finals at the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) Auditorium), Dona paul, Panaji,Goa. In addition, we have four handpicked trainers conducting Educational sessions on Communicationand Leadership skills.

One pertinent highlight, of the conference is that the members of the District Council are casting ballotsfor the future leaders – DG, LGET (2) and LGEM (2) for the coming year – something to look forward to.

Last but not the least - Fun, Frolic and Social networking at the Banquet Dinner on the Paradise CruiseBoat, where Toastmasters will display their talent in different ways – dancing, singing, acting, mimicry,and stand-up comedy; you will get a taste of Goan hospitality through delicious Goan cuisine andentertainment.

Our pristine beaches

Q: How does attending a conference at such a level benefit a Toastmaster?A: Every event is a new experience – Veteran Toastmasters will always learn something new as well ascontribute to the event; Toastmasters who may have attended from time to time or never attended aSemi-Annual or Annual Conference will go back home having witnessed excellent speeches andevaluations from other Divisions, as well as the opportunity to meet Toastmasters from other states.Those who are not Toastmasters – will have an absolutely new experience which, we trust, will encouragethem to become members.

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Q: How are you promoting Oration 2014? Have you initiated any marketing campaigns?A: Goa is the No.1 tourist destination in India and is also internationally renowned. This makes it theperfect place to host Orations 2014. With the International speech and Speech Evaluation contests beingthe highlight of each Toastmasters year, it’s easily a huge attraction for Toastmasters the world over. Goais fast becoming known for not only a place of pristine beaches, entertainment and fun, but a destinationfor International and National events. What better place to host Orations 2014.

Toastmasters Goa got into gear from the Orations 2013 held in Hyderabad. The Sponsorship andPR/Marketing team went into over drive since December 2013. By clearly defining our budgetrequirements and segmenting costs we were able to establish targets. Our Sponsorship Chair TM Umesh Passigned a task of ‘Each one get one’. The objective was for each TM to get 1 sponsor or advertisementfor our souvenir.

To publicize ourselves we got into the ‘juggad’ marketing mode. As a “Not for profit” organization, TM’s inGoa had no big budget for promotion but we love a challenge and decided that we would run thecampaign on a skeletal budget. Headed by TM Jervis we tackled getting covered by all channels possible.The PR team decided to highlight one very important facet – The winner of the Speech contest representsthis part of India, Internationally.

On Paradise Cruise (Gala Evening)

Our local print media (newspapers) is constantly fed with articles which were speeches given byToastmasters. This system pioneered by Goa TM’s paid huge dividends as this Leading newspaper(Navhind Times) in Goa will now be our exclusive media partner for Orations 2014. The onlyBusiness magazine, Business Goa, covered our successes of the first DTM (Farida DSiva Dias) in Goa, andour 100th Meeting of the flagship club, the Goa YMCA TM club. We’ve looked at every possible angle to bein the spotlight and create awareness about TM’s.

Since newspapers and TV stations are mostly owned by the same company we’ve also got the local TVchannels to cover our event. An ambitious target, we are also trying to get national T.V. coverage ofOrations.

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Our premise for sponsorships was to give sponsors value. TMs decided to run speech craft sessions forinterested Corporates. Our only paid advertisement was in the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry’sbulletin for Speech craft sessions.

TM Poonam R is spearheading our social media campaign and has kept us on top, phenomenally,ensuring weekly if not daily hits on the Orations FB and social media pages. Tm Harish U responsible forthe Orations Website got us TMs from around the globe to register as well.

From adding value to business with Speech craft sessions to selling ad space on our souvenirs to brandingTM, TM Goa is going full steam ahead with creating interest for Orations 2014.

Q: What will we do during our free time in GOA?A: There are activities for every type of visitor or local in Goa. So whether you want to laze away on thesunny beaches treating your seafood palate to some scrumptious lobster or a continental crème brulee inCalangute, or trek over to see the Dudhsagar waterfalls, camp out at a wildlife sanctuary in Bondla, soakin some art, culture or visit 75 Heritage and Archaeological sites at Old Goa or simply go pub hopping,there’s something for everyone in Goa. Just don’t be late for the Orations event!

Dudhsagar Falls

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Vicky Mustafa in centreQ: What changes has toastmasters introduced in your life to make you carry on?A: There are so many changes I have experienced in my life as a Toastmaster. I learned to be confidentin everything I do. I practice proper time management. I have developed patience, perseverance andtolerance. I can speak knowing that I can convey the right message. In the last three years, I learned tospeak the Arabic language. I can express myself in the “Arabic way”. Leading District 20 is the mostchallenging yet enjoyable journey. I am thankful to the leaders and members of District 20 for giving methis opportunity. I am ready to lead the SICAP organization and make our vision a reality. I would needso many pages to write all the positive changes I have experienced.

Q: What does achieving DTM award mean to you?A: I achieved the DTM title while I was in Qatar. The VP Education in my club called Doha Toastmasterswas a leader who knew how to convince his members to pursue their communication and leadership track.He challenged me to pursue my DTM. Having the title of a DTM means more responsibilities in mentoringothers. We are role models to budding members. I had delivered my 5th Competent CommunicatorManual and I am happy that others could learn from me.

Q: What you do in your spare time?A: I love going regularly to a fitness class called Zumba Toning where we use weights. I also go to mybeauty centre and talk to the clients. I get to practice speaking in the Arabic language. It is also myopportunity to market Toastmasters. Of course, I also attend numerous Toastmasters meetings inAmman.

Goa is a frequently visited destination by people who wish to swap their suits and ties with a pair ofshorts and a t-shirt. This small state provides a wide variety of cuisines which keeps the palate hungryfor more. Below is an attempt to list out places to eat during your stay at Orations, 2014.

1. Viva Panjim- This restaurant is known for its homely feeling, as it is situated in an old heritagehouse in the Latin quarter of Goa, called Fontainhas. If you are looking for a meal to be enjoyedwith friends or a romantic dinner for two, then viva panjim is the place to visit to have deliciousGoan food such as chicken xacuti, caldinho, etc.

2. Ritz classic- Located in the heart of the city, this restaurant provides a casual ambience andserves a variety of Goan dishes. It is one of the best known restaurants in Goa for authentic seafood dishes.

3. Delhi Darbar- This forte of this restaurant is that it offers authentic Mughlai food- ranging fromthe absolute favourites, tandoori Kebabs, and murgh makhani, to mutton roganjosh, and handigosht. Come here to teleport back into courts of the Mughal Empire.

4. Mum's Kitchen- The unique feature about this restaurant is that the menu is compiled with thehelp of "mothers" across different communities of Goa. This restaurant is known for its prawncurry, xacuti, salted pork, etc.

5. Hotel Mandovi- One of the oldest hotels in Goa, famed for its Goan and Portugese cuisine,offers a fine culinary experience for all age groups. It is popularly known for chicken cafreal,seafood caldeirada, and fish mornay.

Filled your stomachs with delicious Goan food? Here is a list of places to visit that will give you apeek into the Goan culture and heritage.

1. Mangeushi Temple- Shri Mangeshi Mandir, dedicated to Bhagavan Manguesh, anincarnation of Shiva, is one of the largest and most frequently visited temples in Goa. This 400year old temple's main feature is its elegantly designed pillars.

2. Old Goa churches- One of the biggest tourist attractions in Goa, these churches are visited bythousands of tourists every year. Visit the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Church of SaintCajetao and the Basilica of Bom Jesus, which houses the mortal relics of Saint Francis Xavier.

3. Dona paula- Have an ear for stories? Based on the legend, this place is known to have beennamed after Paula Amaral Antonio de Souto Maior, the daughter of a viceroy during thePortuguese times. Known for her benevolent nature, the inhabitants named the area DonaPaula after her death. The distinct feature about this place is it lies at the spot where theMandovi and the Zuari river meet and confluences with the Arabian Sea at a distance of 1 kmfrom this point.

4. Beaches- For those looking for a sense of serenity, Goa’s sun kissed beaches are the place foryou. Candolim, Baga, Anjuna, Vagator are beaches known for water sports, as well as aplace to throw your flip flops and relax under the sun whilst sipping coconut water.

5. The Archaeological Museum, Old Goa- For the history geeks, who would want to know moreabout Goan culture and heritage, the archaeological museum is the place to visit. This museumis known as a tourist attraction as it displays the portrait paintings of governors and viceroys,wooden sculptures, pillars, capitals, postal stamps likewise many other objects which belong tothe Portuguese period in Goa.

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Q: How many people are expected to participate in Oration 2014?A: We are expecting between 350 – 400 participants. Most of the registrations are from Mumbai, Puneand Hyderabad; however, Mumbai will soon cross 100.

Q: What are the roles and responsibilities of a Conference Chair? Organizing such an event is aherculean task. Please brief us about your team and its organization.A: Initially it seemed a phenomenal challenge; however, the enthusiasm of the Goan Toastmasters andtheir teamwork has ironed out several creases. Besides setting up committees and appointing Chairpersons, coordinating and overseeing their working is a herculean task. The following committees wereset up.

FINANCEAKBAR KHAN, NURODDIN KHAN, RENITAALVARES

REGISTRATION and WEB HARISH USGAOKAR

DIVNS A and B SPOCSURVITA BHATIA (GOA)/ RIKSHITCHOWDHARY

DIVN C SPOCS LAVINA MELWANI (GOA)/ANJU AGARWAL

DIVN D SPOCSRENITA ALVARES (Goa)/ MOHAMMEDBABRIWALA

DIVN E and I SPOCSPOONAM RATHOD (Goa)/SAGARAGGARWAL

DIVNS F, H and L SPOCS ASHLEY LOBO (Goa)/ VINAY NAGARAJU

DIVN G and K SPOCSLAVINA MELWANI (Goa)/SIDDARTHCHURIWAL

DIVN J SPOCS RENITA (Goa)/RIKSHIT CHOWDHARYSPONSORSHIP UMESH PADMANABHAPROGRAM NOELLA FERNANDES

SOUVENIRBEENA MANDREKAR, RAMA GAUTAM,UMESH AGASHE, NIKHIL BHATIA

CATERING RAJESH KENKREEDUCATION LGET REET ARORA

ENTERTAINMENTNOELLA FERNANDES, NAVEEN ABRAHAMLOWELL NAZARE/HARSHAL

PR/MEDIA AND MARKETING(NEWSPAPERS/ELECTRONIC/PRESSCONFERENCE)

JERVIS PEREIRA (POONAMRATHOD/RENITA ALVARES)

All the SPOCS will be requested to operate their respective Divisions, at the Registration Desk on 16thmorning at the International Centre Goa and 16th evening at the Inaugural event at National Institute ofOceanography (NIO), Dona Paul, Panaji.

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Q: Whether playing the role of TMoD at club level or Conference chair of such a big event, howhas Toastmasters helped you hone your event management skills?A: My tenure of employment in the Gulf had given me several opportunities to acquire skills in EventManagement. However my Toastmasters experience in Event Management as a Committee member ofthe Gulf Toastmaster Annual Conference (GTAC) for District 79 (2004) has given me the prowess forOration 2014. Nonetheless, my Toastmaster journey as President, Area Governor and now a DivisionGovernor has further honed my skills in several areas of Leadership as well as teamwork.

But I must mention my mentor SABARI GIRISH KANJULY, who has been a Candle in the Wind – neverdying out – when it came to information, guidance and encouragement when we decided to host theOration 2014 in Goa. There were several moments when I did hesitate – especially since at that time weonly had three clubs. My sincere thanks to the District Trio, DG Prasad, LGET Reetu and LGEM Brillian –notonly for having the confidence in us, but encouraging us every step of the way.

Carnival Celebrations @ GOA

REMINDER FOR REGISTRATION RATES:

ANY ONE DAY: RS.2000/-TWO DAYS RS.3000/-FULL EVENT RS.4000/-CHILDREN ABOVE 8 YEARS ACCOMPANYING PARENT FOR BANQUET NIGHT:RS.750/-GAVELIER FROM A REGISTERED CLUB RS.2000/- FOR WHOLE EVENT.SPOUSE ACCOMPANYING TOASTMASTER (OR ANY OTHER FAMILY MEMBER)FOR BANQUET NIGHT Rs.1000/-.

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Register Now

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Why Attend a Conference

Prasad Sovani, DTMI have been attending almost all the conferences since 1996, in both my fraternities – Rotary as well as inToastmasters. It is beneficial in many ways for me. I can count at least a hundred benefits that one canget.

Here’s a summary of the top 10 benefits that one can get out of a conference:

C.O.N.F.E.R.E.N.C.E.

C= Connect with CamaraderieO= Organizational SkillsN= New PlacesF= Friendship across BordersE= Educational SessionsR= RecreationE= Effective LeadershipN= New IdeasC= ContestsE= Energy Boosters

C= Connect with CamaraderieA few days ago 2 boys were playing with the cables put on the ground by the Electricity Board forinstallation. The cables were not connected and the kids were playing on the super thick cables, eventouching the ends of the cables-simply because, they were not connected. Yet, when connected, we darenot touch the loose ends of wires however small they might be. This is the power of connection!

Toastmasters’ fraternity is huge, with more than 300,000 members across all the continents. We canconnect with those friends or at least 500 of them at one conference! That’s how you know the power ofthis camaraderie!

O= Organizational SkillsThe organizational skills of the organizing committee are tested, and so are ours-by simply watchingthem. You can feel how much time and energy has been invested by them and we simply admire them forthat. At the same time, it’s a lesson for you in case you have to repeat this performance in yourhometown!

N= New PlacesI love to travel a lot. I don’t think I’d have gone to Mangalore, Macau or Montevideo if not for suchconferences. (I have indeed attended conferences in these 3 ‘M’ cities!) The conference is a ‘bahaanaa’(excuse) to travel to such exotic places. Anyway, my goal is to travel to 1000 cities in 100 countries in theworld, so I take every opportunity to travel! Usually, I go for about 2-3 days before the opening of theconference and explore that city / country. Similarly, I stop over in other cities on my way to a conference/ convention. Recently I visited Greece and Turkey on my way to Cincinnati, USA. You can stretch yourmoney by visiting places nearer or on the way. The airlines give you a free stop over and you just have tospend the incremental money on accommodation, local travel and food

F= Friendship across BordersI made many friends in conferences. Melanie from Macau, McIntyre from Massachusetts , Pascale fromPerth, , Ed Tate and 2 other World Champions of Public Speaking, the then International Directors, whowent on to serve as International Officers such as John Lau, George Yen and Mohd Murad. Even withinIndia, I have made many new friends across different cities by attending conferences. I met Punita, Vinay,

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Deepak, Nagaraja, Bosco, Venkat, Balraj, Ritu, Brillian, Venkata, Ajit, Mario, Girish and all the districtleaders at the conferences. I would not have had a chance to meet them elsewhere.

DTM Poh Kim Siong, from Singapore is a Past District Governor from District 80. His wife Ong Bee Hoonhails from Malaysia. Guess where they met first? Correct,--at the TM conference!Soon friendship developed and later it blossomed into love. He proposed in a conference in Hong Kong andsoon, they got married! Would it have been possible without a conference? No way! (Their society doesnot have arranged match-making).

E= Educational SessionsWe have many sessions at the conference which enlighten us. I met DTM Paisal Sae Lor of Thailand at aconference and I am inspired by his speech and try to put into practice what he taught at the educationalsession in a conference. Similarly, I feel glad when some Toastmasters write to me for inspiring themwhen I conducted some educational session, several years ago!

R= RecreationWe must enjoy the time we spend at a conference and use it positively for recreation. You might get boredby the day-to-day routine and you may want a break! Use conferences for that purpose and you kill 10birds in 1 stone! We have fun night and we sing songs together in Karaoke sessions. Sometimes we playantakshari, or ‘Spell Bee’!

E= Effective LeadershipI have been inspired by leaders such as DTM Liew Siow Looi, who devoted 3 years of his life for hisleadership years of District 51. He took leave from his job! Similarly in Rotary, the DG typically spends 3years of his life for a social cause! We can learn from their leadership and benefit!

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N= New IdeasYou end up getting some new idea or another by just attending the conference. I first attended theconference when I was President of Braddell Heights TMC in Singapore. I got some ideas and implementedthose at my club. My club was ranked no. 5 in the world that year. I got 2-3 more ideas for business insubsequent conferences. You may get ideas for business, family, club or society by just attending theconference. I look at it this way, ‘Just one good idea in a conference of 4 days, is enough for me to say-Paisa Vasool or Money recovered!’

C= ContestsContests are a great educational experience for all. The contestants benefit by participating in it andsharpening their skills as well as by competing with the best from other Divisions. The judges benefit bythe process of judging, in which they have to be very analytical. The contest committee learns byobserving the contestants and judges from close quarters. I know one ball boy who went on to beWimbledon champion. In the same manner, I know some SAAs who went on to be champions. Theaudience is the biggest beneficiary because; one can just sit and enjoy the contest and benefit. You canlaugh and get entertained, or you can take home some message!

E= Energy BoostersAttending Conferences makes you appreciate the champions, the organizers and the District officers, whoput in so much effort. It also inspires you to do better in life. It is a great energy booster and rejuvenatesyou for your daily routine.

So, to enjoy these 10 benefits, all you have to do is just ATTEND THE CONFERENCE!If you have not registered yet, DO IT NOW!

-Prasad SovaniDistrict Governor 2013-14District 41

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District 41 Elections for the term 1st July 2014 to30th June 2015. Message by District GovernorPrasad Sovani, DTM

Dear District 41 Council Members,

The largest democracy in the world is voting these days to elect a new set of leaders to serve us as ourMembers of Parliament. The most populous democracy in the world also has a large Toastmasters districtthat covers 89% of India. And serves the aspirations related to communications of 1 billion people!As our organization’s tagline says, leaders are made at Toastmasters every day. However, District leadersare elected once a year and now is the time to do that!!!

I had appointed a District Nomination Committee for nominating eligible members for the positions of:

1. District Governor, District 41, 2014-152. Lt. Governor, Education and Training for Districts 41 North and 41 South, 2014-153. Lt. Governor, Marketing for Districts 41 North and 41 South, 2014-154. Division Governors (7) for Divisions A to G for the year 2014-2015.

The Committee has submitted its report to me after considering the nominations received for the variouspositions and after deliberations amongst themselves. The committee has nominated the followingToastmasters for the positions mentioned above. All the officers are nominated for Toastmasters year2014-15 (term: 1st July 2014 to 30 June 2015)

Post Nominated ToastmastersDistrict Governor Ritu AroraDistrict 41 NorthLGET Neeraj Kumar GuptaLGM Sunil NairDistrict 41 SouthLGET Brillian SKLGM Chandrashekar DP

Division GovernorsDivision Governor, Division A Anurag JindalDivision Governor, Division B Neha AgarwalDivision Governor, Division C Mukesh Kumar KulothiaDivision Governor, Division D Jaiprakash ChaurasiaDivision Governor, Division E Beena MandrekarDivision Governor, Division F Sita Mahalakshmi RavinutalaDivision Governor, Division G Srinidhi Dasaka

Each of the members listed in the nominations slate have confirmed that they are willing to serve in thepositions, for which they have been nominated.

In addition to the members nominated by the Nomination Committee, members in good standing maycontest for any of the positions from the floor, provided they are eligible for that position and at least twomembers of the District Council propose and second their names. I request any member who may intendto contest from the floor to inform me well in advance (by 1st week of May 2014) to enable me to makethe necessary arrangements. The Conference Event immediately after the elections is on a cruise andhence we need to manage time extremely well. I seek your cooperation in this matter.

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In case additional nominations are received for any of the positions, elections will be conducted during theDistrict's Annual Business Meeting. This Meeting is scheduled to be held at National Institute ofOceanography, Panjim, Goa, India, on May 17, 2014. Every member of the District Council present inperson or through a valid proxy will be entitled to vote. Before the elections are held, each eligiblecandidate shall be entitled to a two-minute speech to the District Council. Any candidate receiving amajority of the votes cast shall be declared elected.

Who can vote? All members of the District Council or their assigned proxy holders can vote. Proxy holdersmust be members in good standing.

For more information related to election procedures, please click here and here.

Any query on matters of elections may please be addressed to me on my e-mail ID or cellphone.

My heartfelt thanks go to the Nomination Committee for their meticulous work done in arriving at thenomination slate!

The members of the Nomination Committee were:

Nomination Chair: DTM Sabari Girish Kanjully

Nomination Committee Members (1 each from the current divisions): Chinnappa Nanaiah,Prashant Pandey, Sameep Taneja, Nikhil Salvi, DTM Chandana Erande, Nitin Sakelli, Parantap Basu,Rajnish Vyakaranam, DTM Farida D’Silva Dias, Nitin Gupta, Parag Karve, Padmakumar Ananthakrishnan

Let us all applaud them for a job well done involving 20-30 hours of work, each!

This is an important time for our District as we shall be electing leaders who shall lead us through theforthcoming year and shall chart a course for the continued success of our District. This set of leaders willalso be tasked with helping make the transition from one district to two districts.

As responsible members of the District we must be present at the District's Annual Business Meeting sothat we elect the right candidates who shall continue to help us achieve our goals!

See you in Goa!

-Prasad Sovani, DTMDistrict 41 Governor, 2013-14

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Learn about nominated leaders for the term 1st July2014 to 30th June 2015

Nominated for District Governor - Ritu Arora

A periodontist by education, a trainer by profession, a toastmaster bypassion. She loves painting smiles on people’s faces, and she is currentLieutenant Governor Education and Training, District 41.

She has won numerous laurels at national and international level. Shehas been a Toastmaster since 2001. She was Area Governor of the year2010-2011. She also won “Excellence in marketing” award for the year2012-2013 Toastmasters International.

Nominated for District 41 South – LGET - Brillian SK

POSITIONS HELD @ TOASTMASTERSLieutenant Governor Marketing – 2013-2014President’s Distinguished Division D Governor – 2012-2013President’s Distinguished Area D3 Governor – 2011-2012Editor – District Newsletter – Toastmasters International District 82 -2010-2011President’s Distinguished President – Bombay Toastmasters Club –2009-2010Assistant Division Governor – Education and Training – 2009-2010

RECOGNITION AND AWARDSArea Governor of the year award – 2011-2012Spirit Of Toastmasters Award – 2011- 2012 For Helping Charter NewClubs In District 82Area Award for Best Club President Area D3 – 2009-2010Best Rotaract Council Member – District Council 2004-2005Top 3 Outstanding Millennium President, 1999 – 2000, Rotaract District3140.Best Secretary 1998- 1999, Rotaract District 3140.Outstanding Parliamentarian 1998 – 1999, Model Indian ParliamentSession District 3140.Outstanding Professional Service Director, 1997- 1998, Rotaract District3140.Best Editor, 1997 – 1998, Rotaract District 3140.

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Nominated for District 41 North – LGET - Neeraj Gupta, DTM

Neeraj Gupta has been a passionate Toastmaster since 2007. He ismember with both corporate and community clubs in Delhi–NCR. He isa charter member of Adobe TMC and Delhi Advanced ToastmastersClub (DATC).

He has been active in various roles at the district level:

Division Governor for Division–C (2009-10)Nomination Committee Chair (write the year) (2011-12)District parliamentarian (2011-12)Assistant Lt. Governor for Education and Training (2012-13)Division Governor for Division–B (2013-14)

He served as the Club President of DATC and Adobe TMC, both clubsachieved Presidents' Distinguished club award under his leadership.

Professionally, he serves Adobe India as a Quality Manager. He earnedhis Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (B.E.) and Master’s degree inTechnology (M.Tech) from IIT Roorkee. He has also written andpublished several white papers.

Besides Toastmasters and work, he loves to solve Sudoku puzzles and spendquality time with his family, especially his son.

Nominated for District 41 North – LGM - Sunil Nair

A passionate Toastmaster since October 2010. Has served in various ECroles like Sergeant At Arms, Secretary, VP–Public Relations, VP–Membership, VP–Education (twice—for two different clubs), President(twice—for two different clubs. One of them went on to win the GoldenGavel award last year, and helped the other club achieve the SelectDistinguished Club in its first year and the President’s Distinguished Clubstatus last year).

Placed 2nd runners-up in the Division level speech contest (year 2012).Have conducted several educational modules at the club level—from theLeadership Excellence, the Successful Club and Better Speaker series, andthe Judges/Chief Judges Training Programs.

Educational Credentials: ACG and ALB. Will complete ALS by the end ofmy term as the Division Governor.

Professional: Marketing and Communications professional. Specializes inCopywriting and Content Marketing. Over 12 years of experience in agamut of industries—customer services, technical support, publicrelations, writing, developmental editing, training and development, andmarketing.

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Nominated for District 41 South – LGM - Chandrashekar DP

Chandrashekar D P believes that education is the foundation of life. He hasbeen responsible for the establishment and management of JGI K-12 schoolsacross the country since 2003; earlier based in the central India and later inHyderabad. He is an Alumnus of IIM, Lucknow and has a Strategic Leadershipcertificate from IIM, Ahmedabad.

Awards and Honors Received:

As the COO of the Jain Group, he has recently received “The Best SchoolChain of the Country Award” for Value-Centricity, Future Readiness andImparting STEM Education by Shri Salman Khurshid, Hon’ble UnionMinister.Inspirational Leader of the Year Award from SOE Global Education inDecember 2012.Indian Leadership Award for Education Excellence from All IndiaAchievers Foundation in November 2012.Teachers Day Felicitation Award from Sachidananda Kala Peetham,Hyderabad in September 2012.Young Manager of the Year Award from Hyderabad ManagementAssociation in 2012.Bharat Jyothi Award from India International Friendship Society, NewDelhi in 2011.

Nominated for Division Governor, Division A - Anurag Jindal

Being an Area Governor (Area J3) of 9 clubs is not an easy task for me.This title came with lot of responsibilities and a bunch of expectations. Istill remember the day when I accepted this opportunity; I was naïve andhad to understand several things. But this opportunity groomed me to myutmost level. And also I have left no stone unturned to do justice to thisopportunity. I owe a great deal to Pooja Sapra, who trusted me andguided me throughout my journey.

I met several people in this journey and their contributions go beyondwords. I step into this journey because this is the only platform where Ican accomplish my dreams.

I am passionate speaker; I am passionate towards my role as AreaGovernor. I am a passionate toastmaster. I promise you all that I willmentor each and every passionate member who has seen the dreams likeme. I will empower all the members to communicate and lead. I have avision of opening toastmasters clubs in small towns and villages so thatno one is suppressed from its fruitful benefits. In the end I would like tosay “There may not be a tomorrow – not for everyone”. This is sad buttrue. So spend your time wisely today and pause long enough toappreciate it. Every moment you get is a gift. Don’t waste time bydwelling on unhappy things. Spend it on things that move you in thedirection you want to go.

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Nominated for Division Governor, Division B – Neha Agarwal

I am currently Area Governor – Area B1, and my home club is CSC NoidaChapter. As of now I have served as a VP PR, VP Education, President of myclub, and currently I am club secretary and area governor.

Toastmasters gave me wings to fly freely in the world of immensepossibilities. I had always been an inhibitive person, Thanks to,Toastmasters today I am verbose, confident about myself. I always do andstand for what I believe. Engineer by education, Writer by Profession- Ibelieve in doing what I can do the best. In both personal and professionallives, I have always stood strong on ideologies and Soft on relationships.And the same was extended to my stint in Toastmasters as well.

From the day, I gave my icebreaker to today leading as an Area Governor;spirit of Toastmasters has touched my heart. Every applause, everymeeting, every victory, every loss over here is a learning in disguise. I donot believe in stating my achievements because journey has just begun.

Nominated for Division Governor, Division C - Mukesh KumarKulothia

Name: Mukesh KulothiaAge: Will be 'Three decades' by the time it gets published andupdated on web [DOB: 05-June-84]Current Position: Area A2 Governor, President - BlueQuestToastmasters Club [D41]Nominated for: Div C Governor [D41]Qualification: B Tech, NIT Jaipur; MBA, IIM LucknowTM Qualification: ACB, ALBWork: Virtual Training Delivery Manager, IBM India Pvt Ltd

It has been a wonderful 27 months in Toastmasters and I am loving everymoment of it. Other than being a Toastmaster I enjoy relishing books with acup of coffee, designing creative stuff, writing blog and speaking to schoolkids. At home I have a wonderful wife and a lovely daughter. I hate wastageof anything and mostly get angry on wastage of water, electricity, moneyand time.

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Nominated for Division Governor, Division D - JaiprakashChaurasia

I am a charter member of Mahindra Toastmasters Club, Mumbai. I gotopportunities to serve the club in various capacities as Treasurer,Secretary and President. During my tenure as club president in 2012-13,I got to work with a passionate team and it was through its persistentefforts that club aspired and achieved the coveted golden gavel award.

Currently I am area governor for area D3 consisting of MumbaiToastmasters, Mahindra Toastmasters, Tech Talkers Toastmasters, NokiaToastmasters and Crown Toastmasters. Area D3 team has been fabulous,responsive and passionate. All clubs in area D3 demonstrated their zealby qualifying for Smedley award during Aug-September 2013. With allbase clubs set to achieve select distinguished status or more, the area isset to become president’s distinguished area soon.

I work with Automotive Division of Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd as part ofmanufacturing team. I like Net surfing and Public administration duringmy pastime.

Nominated for Division Governor, Division E - BeenaMandrekar

A good quote inspires me.

My journey in toastmasters began on a very ordinary note – I wantedto speak before a group of people. My first meeting was the first stepof a thousand miles journey. That step was ungainly and hesitant, butI took that first step and continued walking.

What was the one notable thing my leader did then? He extended afriendly hand and a warm handshake. He welcomed me and set thetone. The others around me were approachable and did all they couldto make me feel comfortable. I took my cue from them and soon wasconversing with ease. These are the leadership lessons I will neverforget.

As a Vice president Education and subsequently President, I servedmy club to the best of my ability. As Area Governor District 41Division E2 my role involved making regular appearances at clubmeetings. I was careful to provide a balanced approach and evenconnect one club with the other in my area. Every club conducts itsmeetings adequately. It does not require hand holding. What it doesneed though is appreciation and a balanced feedback. I did my bestto provide that.

Everything good in life begins with talking with each other one - to –one - Daniel Pink

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Nominated for Division Governor, Division F - SitaMahalakshmi Ravinutala

Sita joined Toastmasters in the year 2009 with Deloitte HyderabadToastmasters Club (DHTM) and has continued to stay very engagedwith the program as she believes that this platform has a lot to offerfor self-development which help one become a better person andprofessional.

Sita achieved her Distinguished Toastmaster title in 2012-13 and hasheld multiple leadership roles listed below

VP Education and President for DHTMArea Governor for Area F, D41 in 2011-12 and current TM yearAsst. Division Governor for education and training, Division FSouvenir chair – Orafest 2012-13Charter member, Sponsor and VPE for SecunderabadToastmasters clubCo-editor for the D41 newsletter for the current TM yearSelected as Brand Ambassador for the revitalized educationprogram

Nominated for Division Governor, Division G - Srinidhi Dasaka

Srinidhi Dasaka is HR Professional with around 3 years of experience inTalent Acquisition, Employee Relations Management, Talent Managementand Career Development programs. Currently, handling the experiencedprofessional hiring at TCS, Hyderabad. Currently, she is Area Governorfor 5 Corporate Clubs in Hyderabad.

In her journey as Toastmasters, she has played roles like club VP PR,club President, and Area Governor.

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ContributorsUmesh Agashe, CC, ALB

Chief Editor, layout, design and productionagashe.umesh@gmail.com

Sita Ravinatula, DTM

Co – Editorsita.ravinutala@gmail.com

Jahnavi Chintakunta, CL

Co – Editorjahnavi.c07@gmail.com

Beena Mandrekar, ACS, ALB

Co – Editorbeena.mandrekar@gmail.com

This is a monthly e - Newsletter of District 41 - Toastmasters International. The sole purpose of this e - Newsletter is to sharesuccess stories of fellow Toastmasters, activities at district level and spread the brand of Toastmasters. This e – Newsletter is a

result of efforts by many contributors. If you would like to contribute in e - Newsletter or have an idea for content or suggestions forimprovement in e - Newsletter, please write to agashe.umesh@gmail.com