Open House focuses on public speaking, leadership traits

Public speaking is a challenge for many. It needs regular practice to build confidence and emerge as a good orator in public.

Toastmasters is one such platform that helps expand knowledge in public speaking, communication and leadership skills.

Toastmasters' first Open House in District 105, initiated by Area 18 Director TM Dr V Champakavalli, was held last week at Hatat House. The Area 18 comes under Division F, District 105 (Oman) Toastmasters International.

The Open House emphasised the benefits of Toastmasters to prospective members interested in expanding their knowledge in public speaking, communication and leadership skills.

The very purpose of the Open House was to attract a large number of guests and to boost membership. The clubs under Area 18 include Corporate Club (BIG), Mana TKS Toastmasters, Mana Telugu Toastmasters and Muscat Debaters (Arabic speaking).

Speaking to the Observer, TM Dr V Champakavalli said that open houses are held almost every year, and key guests are invited to share their expertise and knowledge with the participants, which help their personality development.

"With the Open Houses, we aim at improving the participants' confidence and shed any stage fear to mould them to be better speakers of tomorrow. We are paying attention to their ability to address a gathering, help them improve their leadership skills and provide an opportunity to network and interact with the other participants," Dr Champakavalli added.

People from different parts of the community were invited as guests, and dignitaries from District 105 (PQD and CGD), including Saiju Victor, Division F Director, shared their experiences. Guests were encouraged by the presentations by members, and many showed interest in joining the Toastmasters.

"Usually, leadership traits are hidden skills of a person, and unless he or she gets an opportunity to exhibit and hone the skills, they remain tacit and wouldn't even be able to brush the quality."

The Open House was a huge success as a large number of participants made use of the occasion and interacted with each other, gaining new insights into the unspoken areas of leadership qualities, public speaking and fine-tuning their language. Members from all the clubs and District leaders appreciated the efforts of the Area 18 Director to highlight the Toastmasters International community.