Audrey Lim DTM

President, Malacca Toastmasters Club, 1999-2000

Area Governor A-1, 2000-2001

I have gained a lot from my Toastmasters experience, but as brevity is the soul of wit, let me mention 3 benefits.

When I first attended my maiden meeting, I thought what a fantastic organization – there was learning, there was fun and there was camaraderie.   I became a member almost immediately and set goals for myself – that I'd achieve each educational level within a year.  I managed this easily, due to the well-structured Toastmasters manual which let me pace myself, and the evaluation process and mentoring system which showed me that there was always room for self-improvement and development.

Secondly, I learnt how to communicate better – being an evaluator and doing speech projects meant honing up on all 4 language skills:   I had to read up on a topic if I wanted to deliver a great speech, I learnt to listen better to evaluate efficiently, I slowly got to the point where I could speak with only a few or no  verbal crutches (a great change from when I first started!) and while I had written regularly for the papers, I now learnt to write for the ear. Furthermore, Toastmasters has enhanced my thinking skills, given me opportunities for competitive speaking, and honed my leadership and organizational abilities.

But more importantly, I've made many friends among Toastmasters here in Malacca and elsewhere.  Without them, my world would be less blessed for, as a wise person once said, "We are on this earth for a short time and true friends make it an enjoyable journey."   And Toastmasters are true friends helping other friends succeed, so thank you!