IGNITING SPIRITS

 Club Contests are coming on February 24

Igniters Club Table Topics and International Speech contests are being held on February 24. Nandini, our contest chair, is accepting names of contestants; and Marvin, our chief judge is looking for volunteers for official roles right now.

If you have ever watched a contest and wished you had the courage to compete, here are two stories that will encourage you.

The story of a novice contestant

Lenore entered the Humorous Speech Showcase in November on an impulse. She never had the courage before to do a humorous speech, but says, "I realized that I had nothing to lose. I told myself if I don't try, I won't succeed."

Lenore had an old speech that she loved - about her cat. All the way through the speech, she focused on her love for the cat. She says, "I actually interacted with the audience and enjoyed telling my story and seeing their reaction. They were laughing so much that I relaxed and had fun with the story."

Then she said, "Just standing up there and finishing the speech was a win for me."

Toastmaster Emma with Humour Champion Lenore and President MarvinImagine her surprise when Lenore won First Place in the Humorous Speech Showcase! 

Her message to you is, "If you want to do it - just do it! You win by trying."

The story of a seasoned competitor

Diane competed in the Evaluation portion of the Showcase and won First Place with an insightful, helpful and humorous evaluation. 

President Marvin and Evaluation Champion Diane

Diane has won a number of contests right up to the District level but says she continues to learn and hone her skills by entering contests. Her message to future contestants is this:

 

"Do you want to improve your public speaking skills even more? Enter the International Speech or Table Topics contest at the club on February 24! It’s a wonderful opportunity to stretch and grow! And you’ll have the support of Igniters walking with you as you step outside your comfort zone. 

Competing has helped me become a more confident, polished speaker. Grab this incredible opportunity to reach new heights in your speaking – sign up to compete at the club contest this month!"

Whether you are a contestant or a volunteer official, you will feel the support of Igniters members and help to make this club contest one of the best.