Pania Blog – Thursday 17
October 2019
Although we were a little light on members today (14), this
was still an entertaining and thought- provoking meeting with two excellent
speeches and evaluations, three challenging, but fun table topics, an
informative business session and short but effective reports. Apologies were received from Graeme, Leigh, Marc ,Tamara and Hannah.
Our Toastmaster of the Day was Lou, who
presented a clear run sheet to keep us on track. Lou started on time and kept
us to time as she welcomed each programme presenter with warmth and enthusiasm.
Lou read the Mission Statement out loud and suggested it would benefit us
to learn it off by heart. Lou’s warmth and sincerity were similar to a cuddle,
which helped us to relax throughout the meeting. Feedback for Lou was to
maintain her introductory handshake with all speakers and to
introduce the apologies and move ‘that they be received’, before asking for
mover, seconder, and vote.
First on the agenda was our Grammarian Craig, who
challenged us to demonstrate the word of the day, Perspicuity – meaning
to have ‘clarity and insight’. This word encourages a demonstration of the
meaning, rather than just using the word, so it was an educational challenge for
us. This was definitely demonstrated by both speakers today. Craig also placed
a visual aid on the wall facing our speakers, which demonstrated his own
perspicuity.
Craig’s evaluative feedback was clear and demonstrated
excellent listening as he commented on how well the word has been demonstrated.
He also reminded us to be mindful of our ums and errs as well as being aware of
the use of pace and pause. Craig used good humour and was also reminded to be
aware of voice fade toward the end of sentences.
Our Timekeeper, Sandy, kept us to time and maintained
that standard throughout. Her report was also succinct and clear.
Paula then introduced out first speaker Pedro,
with the topic ‘Is it time for a Global Currency? Paula explained
the Pathway supporting this speech and gave a brief background as to why this
speech was important to Pedro. This may not have been a topic that most of us
have considered, so it was a thought provoking and passionate delivery by Pedro,
which may encourage more thought about our individual opinions.
Paula evaluated Pedro’s speech and congratulated him
on his in-depth research and excellent statistics. Paula suggested that he
could use a visual aid, such as Power Point to help in the explanation of his
research, which would also help in further clarifying our understanding. This
would also add more emphasis to the ending. The general evaluator commented on
Paula’s friendly and supportive comments and helpful recommendations.
Jen then introduced our second speaker, Mehran,
explaining his specific objectives and purpose. Jen then explained Mehran’s
specific challenges based on feedback from his previous speech and gave us his
title ’The Pale Blue Dot!’ This was a thought-provoking topic as it
challenged beliefs In whether man is responsible for the eventual demise of our
planet. In her feedback Jen thought Mehran’s speech was very good and
gave us more insight into what makes him tick. Her first commendation was that
he was brave to contest the populous theory in such a mixed audience! Her
second was that Mehran used excellent slides, which were clear and interesting,
and left them up long enough for us to read and digest them. Jen’s
recommendation was that he either ensure the technology is ready to go or ask
someone to check it for him as he is introduced. Jen concluded by stating that
Mehran met his personal objectives, which were to not pace up and down and to
present your speech within the allocated time. She believed both these
objectives were met. Jen concluded by saying the we enjoyed his speech as it
was something that she doubted others had considered and it gave us much to
think about. Her take away, was the fact that he suggested we have become full
of our own self-importance and had not realised our real place in the great
scheme of things. Jen concluded by thanking Mehran for having the courage of
his commitments.
Table Topics was next on our agenda, ably presented by
Anna with a range of topics based on ‘When you were moving?’ She
explained by asking the speakers to explain how they decided between certain
items that could have held meaning?’
The first speaker, Sehar, was asked ‘what happens when
you pick your books?
Israel was then given two toys (one of which is now
illegal to sell) and asked ‘Which one goes, which one stays?
Peter (2nd time guest) was given a painting, which seemed to be by a
child’s hand, and was asked ‘does Art go or stay?
All speakers spoke to each topic very clearly and with humour
and passion, producing highly entertaining stories which may suggest this topic
was quite familiar! The questions did not appear to challenge them at all, and
those of us listening were highly entertained.
Michael had the unenviable role of evaluating our
impromptu speakers – and this was also his first time doing so! He was well
prepared for this duty and produced at least one good commendation and
recommendation for each of our speakers. Well done Michael!
Awards: Best
Speaker – Mehron for his bravery in bringing a controversial topic in a
way that made us think and possibly challenge our perspectives.
Best Evaluator – Jen for her
meaningful, well considered feedback, through solid commendations and
recommendations!
Best Table Topic – Israel
for his entertaining explanation of his beloved toys!
Another energising meeting! Well done to everyone!
General Evaluator - Laurel Francis
LAUREL FRANCIS,
DTM, PDDG
021 609 301 or 06
85 77 209
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