The third meeting of the 2025/26 Toastmasters year took place on Thursday, October 2nd at the Hibernian Hotel, where members and guests gathered once again to share ideas, stories, and inspiration in a warm, supportive atmosphere.
Opening the Meeting
Club President Paul C opened the evening by reaffirming the Toastmasters motto — “to provide a supportive and positive learning experience where members develop communication and leadership skills, leading to increased self-confidence and personal growth.”
Paul also paid tribute to the late Jane Goodall, sharing one of her timeless reflections on humanity and compassion — a fitting opening for an evening centred on communication and connection.
Announcements and Contest News
Members were reminded of the upcoming Online Speech Contest, taking place on Sunday, October 5th at 6pm, with the winner progressing to the next round on October 19th. These contests provide an excellent opportunity for members to challenge themselves, receive feedback, and showcase the speaking and leadership skills honed throughout the year.
The Evening’s Roles and Flow
Serving as Toastmaster for the evening, Margaret O’R guided proceedings with professionalism and poise, supported by Michael C as Topicsmaster and Gillian H as General Evaluator.
With four guests in attendance, the energy in the room was bright and welcoming — a true reflection of Speak Easy Mallow’s reputation as a friendly and encouraging club.
Poet’s Corner
The evening began with a thoughtful reading by Liam F, who shared “Digging” by Seamus Heaney. The poem’s themes of work, roots, and reflection resonated deeply with the audience, setting a contemplative tone for the speeches that followed.
Prepared Speeches
Three engaging and varied speeches filled the evening:
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“You Remind Me of the Baroque” — a motivational and creative address by Bobby B, exploring personal inspiration and artistic influence.
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“The Leaving” — a presentation mastery speech by Marie L, blending emotional insight with eloquent delivery.
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“The Warm-Up Act” — a humorous and engaging talk from Paul C, offering a light-hearted close to the prepared speeches.
Each presentation showcased the diversity of speaking styles and subjects that make every Toastmasters meeting unique.
Table Topics and Evaluations
The impromptu speaking session, led by Michael C, invited participants to think quickly and creatively on their feet — always a highlight of the evening. The subsequent evaluations, coordinated by General Evaluator Gillian H, offered speakers constructive and encouraging feedback, reinforcing the club’s ethos of growth through positivity.
Looking Ahead
The meeting concluded on a high note, with members and guests alike leaving inspired by the quality of speeches and camaraderie shared.
The next meeting of Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters will be held on Thursday, October 16th at 8pm at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow. Guests are always welcome to attend — no prior speaking experience required.
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