toastmaster-magazine-2016

“Better Quality” is our theme
Consider it an honor to be writing a message for this prestigious magazine, and especially on the topic
of Serendib Gavel Clubs.
I was approached by the President TM Ferasath offering me the position of Chief Gavel Counselor for
both boys and girls Gavel clubs. For the respect and honor of the President and the Executive Committee, I
immediately accepted. Even though I had experienced being the Girls Gavel club counselor, I was wondering
how i am going to handle it. Specially, when considering the sacrifice of family time.
However, when I consulted with my wife, she said to take it for the
sake of those children. This gave me the moral boost I needed. Moreover,
having a team of marvelous counselors like TM Indika, TM Sasirinda,
TM Anuja, TM Jazuli, TM Rakeeb, TM Farhan. And an advisory panel
comprising of Thangasamy, TM Riyaz, TM Nirone, TM Rizan, and TM
Zubair, I knew it is going to be a cake walk, hence I sealed the offer.
My entrance to the Gavel club counseling is due to our great Distinguish
Toastmaster Subramaniam Thangasamy. He is not only a Distinguished
Toastmaster, but a role model for all Toastmasters of District 79. He
pushed me into being a Gavel counselor two years back. Today I really
treasure that gesture. I was able to lead a group of young people to
success, with his mentorship and guidance.
Thangasamy is the Outgoing Chief Gavel Counselor. How much more
privileged can you be, when you are taking over duties from your own
mentor and role model in Toastmasters.
I remembered Thangasamy quoting the following during one of our
meetings. He said, “As Ralph Smedley, the founder of Toastmasters said
that we learn best in moments of enjoyment. For me the gavel club
meetings were always enjoyment, and for the children too. There were
always enthusiasm and excitement throughout the sessions. The children
felt very comfortable in the meetings which maximized their creativity
and learning.” And further he quoted from Pearl S. Buck saying; “To serve is beautiful, but only if it is done
with joy and a whole heart.” Thangasamy confirmed it is true; he enjoyed the role of Gavel counselor as he
helped the young leaders grow, especially when they are on stage performing like superstars.
In fact, Thangasamy is the longstanding Gavel counselor of Serendib. When he took over in 2005 it was
only one club, and in 2013 he managed to get us two Gavel clubs due to the large number of students joining
the club. And today with his able guidance, we managed to form three clubs.
Thangasamy, we sincerely appreciate your continued service towards Serendib and the community. If
ever we introduce, you shall be the first inductee to the Hall of Fame of Serendib TM Club.
In continuation of the hard work of outgoing and past counselors, and to be in line with our main
club theme “Quality”, we the new counselor team pronounce “Better Quality” as the theme for the Gavel
Clubs this year. We as a team will ensure that quality of our Gaveliers performance in communication and
leadership will be improved.
36 SERENDIB BREEZE