Was very much looking forward to this session, even though I had been battling a cold all week and was not feeling so good. Confirmed my presenters and drew up the agenda, with one apology listed. Sent out the draft agenda and later recieved two more apologies from speechcrafters who were due to do their speeches that night. This is one of the challenges of what being the co-ordinator is all about, keeping that agenda fluid so it works (lot like actual life).
One of our participants pulled out which left a space open for someone who was very keen on the waiting list.
We had scheduled 3 ice breaker speeches from the two speechcrafters who were unable to attend last week and one from our new speechcrafter. 4 "organising your speech" speeches. 10 participants expected and 5 toastmasters to facilitiate. We ended up with one speechcrafter not showing up so in total 6 speeches.
It is always hard when you have people miss sessions, trying to get them up to speed with what they have missed is a balacing act of not repeating yourself but reviewing what was learnt and practice so the newer (and nervous) participants feel confident.
We started the night off with a round robin. Everyone took part in it. From last week we were less one particpant and less 3 toastmasters it is amazing how you feel the energy level in a group reduce when there are less people. It took a little time for the energy to rise in the group. I felt that by the time everyone had given their speeches (there was a bit of a sigh of relief) and had supper they were all feeling very relaxed and comfortable.
Again we heard some great speeches, everything from salt water crocks in Darwin, tax definitions, alternative industrial uses of bamboo, careers in hairdressing, love of fishing, and thought provoking example of our perceptions. WOW! these guys are GREAT! As with all toasmaster programs the participant picks the topic and we enjoyed and were entertained by a great selection. My speechcrafters did so well, very confident and received informative, analyitical and supportive evaluations that I am sure they will encorporate in their next speech.
We had a fun impromtu speaking session with topical questions in the current media, where again as last week everyone participated and enjoyed. Even when one of the speechcrafters was stumped by the question he was given support and several options on how to approach this next time. Great advice that everyone could take home and use!
Our educational this week was on introducing a speaker. Something that we may all be called upon to do at sometime in our life. We listened to the theory then broke the speechcrafters up into pairs to interview each other. Then they presented their introductions. The next session will include the speechcrafters introducing the speeches. Everyone was keen to take part.
In the wrap up I explained who was speaking next week and we reviewed the introductions. Explained how our we will have some different toastmasters presenting next week and briefly explained the next speech project and how the educationals next week will help with the project. Our speechcrafters each gave a reflection on what they had learnt so far, which was rewarding, positive and great feedback.
A great night had by all. Look forward to next week.
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