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Club Highlights // Issue 3

LIP-H TM Club

Written By TM Lina Meki

LIP-H Toastmasters Club

  • Established year: 2021
  • Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
  • Number of Members:14 Members
  • Club President: Natnael Aklog

When I became president, I did not enter the role with fixed personal learning intentions. I have always tried to keep an open mind to every experience, and I approached this responsibility the same way. However, due to personal circumstances and having to relocate for work, I was absent for much of the year and, honestly, I feel I could have given more to the role.

Still, the year taught me two important lessons: the value of a strong team and the importance of perseverance. Our club also faced a major challenge when the project that funded us was terminated. Despite this, the Executive Committee never gave up. Our VPE held the fort, our VPPR promoted the club with great energy, our Treasurer helped the club survive financially, and our Sergeant at Arms ensured that every session was successful.

My main hope was not necessarily to focus on DCP goals or numbers, but to make sure members were learning, growing, and enjoying the Toastmasters experience. From that perspective, I believe we succeeded. Two members reached the Division contest, our sessions were full, and members showed real progress.

My leadership dos are: commit enough time, set SMART goals, and build a strong team. My don’ts are: do not overpromise, do not delay tough decisions, and do not pressure volunteers unnecessarily.

PUBLIC SPEAKING TIP
"Confidence on stage isn't luck; it is earned through preparation. You don’t rise to the occasion under pressure; instead, you fall back on the level of your training. Trust yourself by practising beyond the minimum requirements in the unseen hours."