Details
On the evening of 15 March, our club in District 71, Area 16, Division C was due to hold its International Speech and Evaluation Contest at 7.45 pm. Shortly before the meeting began, we received news that our Vice President Education, who was also acting as Chief Judge, had been involved in a car accident and was in an ambulance.
Despite the shock of the situation and having no printed agendas, ballots, timing sheets, lectern or props, the club immediately came together to ensure the contest could still go ahead. A visiting member from Castleknock Toastmasters stepped in as Chief Judge, another member took charge of hall payments and logistics, and members quickly improvised the materials needed to run both contests successfully.
What makes this especially worth celebrating is that almost half of our members have been in Toastmasters for less than a year. Even with several experienced members absent, newer members stepped forward with confidence, teamwork and calm leadership. Our VPE also deserves recognition for the excellent preparation she had completed in advance, which made it possible for the evening to continue.
This story is relevant to current and prospective members because it shows the real value of Toastmasters training: confidence, leadership, adaptability, teamwork and resilience in action. It is a powerful example of club spirit, member growth and the supportive culture Toastmasters creates.
Marie McNamee