Latest news with #DTAC2025
Khaleej Times
4 days ago
- General
- Khaleej Times
A Toastmasters world champion on finding her voice through motherhood
'Can you think of a time when life tried to knock you down? Who was your toughest opponent?' When Ramona J Smith lobbed these weighty questions with punch in her voice and poise in her stance at the 2018 Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking, she had no inkling that a quiet coronation awaited her on the other side. She took the audience on a tour of her life punctuated with failures and letdowns, only to rise from the ashes and command the world stage with a life-changing speech 'Still Standing'. The phrase became a lasting motif of resilience in Smith's life, one that not only defined her identity but brought her a glory she had never imagined. Seven years later, the words 'still standing' represents more than mere grit and emerging from the rock bottom. It now means, in Smith's own words, 'gratitude to still be speaking and to still be celebrated as a world champion.' Speaking on the sidelines of Toastmasters (District Toastmasters Annual Conference) DTAC 2025 in Dubai, she said that she did not join the organisation with an intention to overcome stage fear. She had never been one to grow cold feet when on stage, but she recalled the moment when she felt an irrevocable desire to find her voice and release it to the world to echo. And it wasn't something external. 'When I became a mother, that's when I knew that I had to speak up for myself, because I was going to have to speak up for my son. I knew that I was going to have to step up as a leader because I had this little person watching every move that I was making and I wanted to be the best version of myself for my son.' As an unwed mother, who she says is different from a single mother in the struggles that they face, it wasn't easy for Smith to emerge from the backstage of fizzles and frustrations. However, she proudly highlights the fact that her son had his father to fall back on in his growing years, and that gave her the opportunity and freedom to set out on her own from the theatre of her past. It shaped the way she showed up on the stage as a leader whose intention was to carry the message of finding one's own bearings in a world that is filled with distractions of every sort. It gave her the space to spread her wings in the comfort of knowing that her son was safe growing up well and strong with his amazing father. For someone who meets adversities with the same equanimity as facing an audience, winning the World Championship wasn't just about making herself heard. It was also about shedding the fear of not being able to make her dreams come true. 'I'm afraid of not living my life to the fullest, that's the only fear I have, and how I navigate through that today is by continuing to show up globally and continuing to pursue my dreams and achieve my goals.' Smith doesn't believe in merely pouring her words into the mic. For her a speech should be able to percolate into the minds of the listeners, leaving an irreversible impact on them, so much so that it transforms their lives in some way. Like most public figures who hand out practical life lessons and suggest coping mechanisms to successfully survive in a chaotic, digitally disturbed world, Smith too draws from the well-spring of her own struggles, experiences and lessons learnt and imparts them to people in forceful ways. 'Great speakers are great storytellers,' she says and segues into explaining how from being a mere speaker who wanted to tell her stories when she began her journey, she has now grown into an orator who uses her experiences to guide others towards discovering the greatness within themselves. This leadership quality that now helps her empower others wasn't something she was born with; it was shaped by circumstances and honed by choice. It didn't emerge until she enlisted in the United States Air Force, where a military training instructor unexpectedly thrust her into a leadership role. 'It was when he pushed me into that role because he saw some characteristics in me that I didn't,' she recalls. 'I accepted it, and I was able to lead a group of 50 women I'd never met before through training. The title of 'leader' definitely found me. I didn't think I was one before, but I know for sure that I am one now.' Her words carry the modesty of someone who didn't seek power, but grew into it. Her story affirms the truth that greatness isn't always something you're born into; it can be cultivated through intention, commitment, and the willingness to be of value to those you aim to serve. Let's admit it — being a public speaker isn't easy. It takes courage to overcome the two major mental blocks that hold most people back: imposter syndrome and the trap of comparison. The nagging belief of 'I'm not good enough' isn't unique to speakers alone; it's something everyone who has stood on a victory podium has wrestled with at some point. According to Smith, the antidote to this lies in pushing oneself beyond the safety of comfort zones. 'I train them and make them speak in a way they didn't even know they were capable of,' she says. 'They start to unlock a confidence they never knew was there, and along the way, they begin to discover different versions of themselves, and that's very liberating.' In Smith's opinion, to be a great speaker, one has to have life experiences that not only one can share with authenticity, but also have the capacity to process those experiences and derive lessons out of them that can shift audience perspectives. 'Great speakers are shaped by struggle and intentional practice,' she says summarising the primary characteristics of a good orator on stage who can hook, hold and bind the audience in a spell. Smith is undeterred by the invasion of AI in the creative space, of which public speaking is an integral part and holds unvarying certitude in her role as a speaker and life-changer. She is convinced that live, heartfelt communication in an era dominated by quick content and virtual personas has an undisputable place of its own. While she does not deny that 'AI can help to come up with ideas and creative statements and create creativity', there's still nothing like 'being in a group of people with whom you are laughing, having a good time,' she adds. The energy that genuine thought and communication bring is incomparable and 'there is no substitute for live interaction.' Smith observed that what stood out most about the Toastmasters community in the UAE was their palpable excitement, deep passion, and dedication to the organisation. Unlike what she often sees back in the United States, where not everyone treats Toastmasters with the same level of personal investment, members in the UAE hold the community close to their hearts. She found their warmth and the way they received her and other world champions to be truly humbling. While many individual stories and voices moved her during her visit, what remained most memorable was the collective spirit, a level of enthusiasm and commitment she considers among the strongest she's encountered in her journey. Smith is disarmingly adorable when she says that if she hadn't become a world-renowned speaker, she might have simply been a stay-at-home mom. If there's one myth about public speaking she wishes to bust, it's the idea that it's 'hard, challenging, and terrible'. For her, the most powerful thing the craft has taught her is the ability to say, with conviction, 'I am enough.' For someone who wakes up each day feeling happy and excited about what the hours ahead might bring, and who finds deep power in the quiet satisfaction of doing what she loves, that simple statement becomes a profound declaration for a lifetime.
Mid East Info
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
From Abu Dhabi to Amman: District 105 Toastmasters Take the Spotlight at DTAC 2025
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Toastmasters from four countries came together with members from Oman, Abu Dhabi, Jordan, and Palestine in Amman for DTAC 2025, the District 105 Annual Conference. Held under the theme 'Rise to Inspire,' the event showcased the region's dedication to empowering confident communicators and leaders, with strong representation from Abu Dhabi and other regions. The conference was led by TM Mohammed Al-Kiswani and his team in Jordan. With over 250 attendees, the two-day event brought together diverse voices to celebrate courage, connection, and growth. Members shared stories, stepped boldly into the spotlight, and transformed fear into confidence – proving once again the power of Toastmasters to uplift and inspire. Keynote Inspiration One of the featured keynote speakers was Mohammed Murad, DTM from Dubai, a previous International President of Toastmasters International. His thought-provoking session, 'Leadership: Reality or Illusion?' invited attendees to reflect on the essence of authentic leadership, leaving the audience inspired and introspective. Elevating Voices Through Speech Contests Four captivating English contests filled the conference with laughter, insight, and inspiration. The champions who rose to the occasion were: Evaluation Contest Champion – TM Agnik Bose (Oman) – TM Agnik Bose (Oman) Humorous Speech Contest Champion – TM Thomas John (Oman) – TM Thomas John (Oman) Table Topics Contest Champion – TM Krishan Kumar (Oman) – TM Krishan Kumar (Oman) International Speech Contest Champion – TM Rasiah Raslyn Agatha (Abu Dhabi) Running simultaneously, the Arabic Speech Contest showcased District 105's linguistic diversity, reinforcing Toastmasters' commitment to empowering voices in every language and ensuring regional representation across the district. The Defining Moment A deeply moving moment was the recognition of 94-year-old DTM Haifa Al Bashir, honored for 25 years of Toastmasters service. Though she arrived in a wheelchair, her energy lit up the room. With a twinkle in her eye, she declared, 'I came prepared to give a BIG speech,' and delivered one that resonated with every listener. She was joined by fellow Silver Jubilee honorees: TM Mary Shawareb, DTM Haifa Sharaiha, DTM Maisoun Armouti, and TM Raghad Keilani – all celebrated for their lifelong commitment and contributions. Leadership Recognition and Awards District Director Saiju Victor, DTM expressed heartfelt appreciation to all members, clubs, and leaders whose efforts led to District 105 achieving Distinguished District status. He also welcomed the incoming district leaders for the 2025–2026 term. The District Annual Awards honored excellence in Program Quality, Club Growth and Public Relations presented by: Program Quality Director Cyprian Misquith, DTM Club Growth Director Ramanujam Raghavan, DTM Public Relations Manager TM Maria Theresa de Mesa Mendoza Looking Ahead: DTAC 2026 Abu Dhabi The exciting announcement of DTAC 2026 to be held in Abu Dhabi, led by Chair TM Hadi Ali with Toastmasters from Abu Dhabi took the stage in a stunning display of unity. With its cultural richness and innovative spirit, DTAC 2026 promises an immersive and inspiring experience – an event the District is already looking forward to. About District 105 Toastmasters: District 105 is a part of Toastmasters International, supporting members across Oman, Abu Dhabi, Jordan and Palestine in developing public speaking and leadership skills. With the District's tagline 'Learn and Enjoy' the district offers a supportive and fun environment for personal and professional growth through the globally recognized Pathways educational program. With a strong focus on integrity, respect, service, and excellence, District 105 empowers individuals to become confident communicators and effective leaders in their communities.
Daily Tribune
23-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bahrain hosts Toastmasters DTAC 2025
Under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Educational Charitable Trust and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Fund, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa attended the launch ceremony of the annual Toastmasters Conference for Sector 20, 'DTAC 2025,' held yesterday at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Bahrain. The conference, themed 'Echoes of Excellence,' is being organised in collaboration with the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the Republic of Iraq. It represents a significant regional effort to foster leadership and public speaking skills among youth in both Arabic and English. The event commenced with the playing of the national anthem, followed by a short film highlighting the growth and impact of the Toastmasters movement in the Kingdom of Bahrain. In his remarks, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Abdullah affirmed that hosting DTAC 2025 reflects Bahrain's ongoing commitment to nurturing young leaders. He emphasised that the initiative aligns with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, to empower youth and support their role in national development. His Highness also extended his best wishes for the success of the conference and its participants.
Daily Tribune
23-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
HH Shaikh Isa bin Abdullah Attends Launch of Toastmasters DTAC 2025 in Bahrain
AB bahrain Under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Educational Charitable Trust and Chairman of the Labour Fund, the Kingdom of Bahrain officially inaugurated the District 20 Annual Toastmasters Conference (DTAC 2025) on Thursday evening. The ceremony, held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Manama, was attended by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa. DTAC 2025, organized under the theme 'Echoes of Excellence,' is a collaborative initiative between Toastmasters organizations from the Kingdom of Bahrain, the State of Kuwait, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and the Republic of Iraq. The event, which runs from May 22 to 24, brings together more than 2,000 participants from 115 Toastmasters clubs across the region, covering both Arabic and English-speaking communities. The opening ceremony began with the Bahraini National Anthem and a short film celebrating the history and growth of the Toastmasters movement in Bahrain. In his address, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa underscored the importance of hosting such a prestigious event in the Kingdom. He emphasized that the conference reflects Bahrain's commitment to nurturing young talent in leadership and communication, aligning with the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. His Highness further expressed his pride in Bahrain's role as a platform for youth development and wished the participants every success in their endeavors throughout the conference. Toastmaster Younis Abdul Aal, Chairperson of DTAC 2025, delivered a keynote speech highlighting the event's focus on equipping Arab youth with leadership and public speaking skills through workshops, competitions, and educational sessions. He noted that DTAC 2025 would feature internationally recognized speakers and champions, offering diverse and inclusive learning opportunities for attendees. Echoing this message, Toastmaster Yasser Al-Qashar, Director of Sector 20, emphasized the vital role that such conferences play in empowering the region's youth. He pointed to the Kingdom's longstanding support for initiatives that cultivate creativity, innovation, and leadership among young people. During the event, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Abdullah bin Hamad Al Khalifa honored the partners, supporters, and organizing committee members of the conference. A commemorative gift was also presented to His Highness in recognition of his support and presence. As the largest event on the Toastmasters calendar in the region, DTAC 2025 is set to host a series of competitive speech contests, leadership development sessions, and public speaking workshops. The conference continues through May 24 and serves as a hub for aspiring leaders to connect, grow, and showcase their talents on an international stage.
