Hope is the thing with feathers

Sometimes we take for granted how wonderful our use of language can be. Last week's Speakeasy Meeting was a prime example of beautiful language and everyday phrases that enrich our conversation. 

Olivia Cashman delivering her speech

It all began with Rose Murphy whose choice for the Poetry Corner was Emily Dickinson's inspiring poem "Hope is a thing with feathers". Is there a more beautiful opening line than "Hope is a thing with feathers that perches in the soul"?

It continued with Rachel Liston  and her speech "New Beginnings". She spoke about how Toastmasters helped her overcome her fear of public speaking, especially overcoming the dread of Impromptu Speaking   and "locking eyes with the Topicsmaster".

Rose Murphy reading her poem

Paul Corcoran continued the linguistic flurries in his contribution "Learning from the best" with lines lines like "the bells and smells of Catholicism". Paul delivered another uplifting line  that encapsulated the entire speech programme "Isn't that just perfect?"

Even the animal kingdom provided some memorable lines about "the waggle dance" which is a worker bee informs the rest of his hive about a newly discovered source of pollen! Peter Patton's "Dog gone crazy" took us on a journey of life from an animal's perspective. 

Olivia Cashman's speech "Hidden Treasures" was a fascinating tale of one family's contribution to the establishment of the Irish State in 1922." It contained, perhaps, the most profound contribution of the evening - not all Treasures are visible" but exist as memories that are handed down to each new generation. 

One of the main attractions of Toastmasters is the miscellany of ideas and opinions we hear. It's ordinary people leading ordinary lives presenting their ideas and gaining in confidence by so doing.

Peter Patton delivering his speech

Speakeasy Toastmasters returns to The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow on Thursday, 1st October at 7.45pm.  Now is always a good time to come along and witness what Speakeasy can offer. If enhanced communication skills can assist you in your job or in job interviews,  Toastmasters can help you achieve those goals.  If you require assistance with that"Special Occasion" speech or in the art of conducting a Meeting, Speakeasy can help you. 

Everyone is welcome to attend our Meetings and guests are not obliged to speak unless they wish to do so.

For further information, please check out our website speakeasytoastmasters.com or on Facebook. 

Off the cuff

We have all experienced the discomfort of being "put on the spot". Our brains slow down,  we can't find the right words and we feel dissatisfied with the responses we make. And then the right response comes to us later! 

In Speakeasy Toastmasters, we help our Members become more accomplished at impromptu  speaking.  Our Table Topics Session puts Members on the spot in a friendly  and non threatening way. And over a period of time, we become more adept at speaking confidently in interpersonal situations,  be it in conversations with family,  friends and work colleagues. It helps Members to put the right message across in job interviews and work situations. 

James McConville did the honours as Topicsmaster at our last Meeting. Like a discussion leader,  he elicited responses on a range of subjects. "What is your favourite smell" evoked some beautiful images. We were reminded of the mix of smells in Buckley Brothers Hardware store and the fresh fragrance we experience after rain. The plans for the regreening of Africa led to the question of similar initiatives in Ireland.  Reflections on the Summer just passed  included the prevalence of "the green and red of Mayo". Other subjects included a member's experience of his first night at a Toastmasters Meeting,  a very desirable magic power and the relearning of a skill. 

The Session was both enjoyable and insightful. And the part of the brain that engages with impromptu speaking  was well exercised. It was a hugely beneficial exercise in the art of "thinking on our feet".

Our next Speakeasy Meeting takes place on this Thursday night, 17th September in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.45pm. 

As always,  guests are welcome to attend our Meetings and are never obliged to speak unless they wish to do so.

For more information,  please check out our website speakeasytoastmasters.com or on our Facebook page. 

Michael Cronin in full flight as he speaks off the cuff.

James McConville,  Topicsmaster at the last Speakeasy Toastmasters Meeting. 

In full voice!

Speakeasy Toastmasters returned to it's Meeting Programme last week, not with a whisper but in full voice. In front of a large crowd of Members and guests, it was a Meeting that had humour, reflection and inspiration in equal measure.

Margaret O'Regan asked the question  - "Who do you think you are?" How do we introduce ourselves? And in this mad world of Artificial Intelligence, what does our profile look like? Quite boring it seems!

Bobby Buckley regaled us with a warning "Leave the kids alone!" It was a tale of a teacher trying to "herd mice" or rather Secondary School students at star studded productions of Shakespeare plays. What can possibly go wrong with a wild group of teenage boys who become over involved in the scene where Desdemona dies in Ophelia or in the great monologue in Hamlet? Quite a lot it seems. 

Don McSweeney gave an inspiring talk on the power of Altruism. "Help" is not just the title of a Beatles song, it is a cry for assistance from the less fortunate.  Even in these dark times,  people are willing to reach out and help others or contribute to the community. Dolly Parton's Imagination Library has given thousands of children worldwide the gift of reading. Doctors give their time and expertise to volunteer for organisations like Doctors without Borders. Random people provide vital organs to save the lives of others. Altruism is a quality to be found among religious believers and non believers alike. Altruism is the power to transform lives,  of both the givers and the receivers. 

In Toastmasters, all speeches are evaluated. Michael Cronin, Pat Sexton and Paul Corcoran provided positive and helpful feedback to the speakers. In Speakeasy,  we have a motto - "Evaluate to Motivate". This is how all Members develop the skills and the confidence to communicate with ease. 

Our programme is designed to allow Members to progress at their own pace, while acquiring the necessary skills of good communication. 

Our next Meeting takes place on Thursday, 17th September  in The Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.45pm.  As always,  guests are welcome to attend our Meetings and are under no obligation to speak unless they wish to do so.

For more information,  please check out our Facebook page or on speakeasytoastmasters.com

A Celebration of Stories, Humour and Reflection at Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters gathered once again at the Hibernian Hotel for an evening filled with thoughtful speeches, humour, poetry, and engaging discussion. As always, the club welcomed members and guests alike into a warm and supportive environment where communication, confidence, and community continue to flourish.

Opening the Evening

Club President Paul Corcoran opened the meeting and warmly welcomed attendees to another vibrant evening of learning and connection. Guiding proceedings for the night was Toastmaster James McConville, who confidently introduced the evening’s speakers and supporting roles, helping to ensure the meeting flowed with warmth and professionalism.

James McConville as Toastmaster for the evening

Supporting the evening were Olivia Cashman as Topicsmaster, Rachel Liston as Timekeeper, Trevor O’Sullivan as General Evaluator, and Liam Fitzpatrick as Grammarian. Members were also treated to a poetic moment, with Marie Lynes reading Percy Shelley’s Ozymandias — a reflective and timeless poem that offered an early pause for contemplation.

A Variety of Prepared Speeches

The prepared speeches on the evening offered a wonderful mix of emotion, humour, creativity, and personal reflection.

Rose McCarthy opened the speeches with “Peace,” a Presentation Mastery speech that encouraged reflection and thoughtful consideration, setting a calm and meaningful tone for the evening.

President Paul Corcoran followed with “An Bradan Feasa” (The Salmon of Knowledge), an engaging and humorous speech that blended storytelling with insight while progressing work on his evaluation and feedback pathway.

Paul Corcoran delivering his speech 

Bobby Buckley delivered “Toastmaster People,” a speech exploring visionary communication and the importance of descriptive language, reminding members of the richness thoughtful expression can bring to public speaking.

Bobby Buckley delivering his speech

Adding further humour to the evening, Michael Cronin entertained the audience with “The Casting Couch,” an engaging speech filled with personality and wit that kept the room captivated.

Michael Cronin delivering his speech

Rounding out the prepared speeches was Pat Sexton, who continued work on Presentation Mastery and speaking style, once again demonstrating the commitment of Speak Easy Mallow members to developing their communication skills.

Pat Sexton delivering his speech - the final one of the 2025/26 season

Poetry, Topics and Shared Learning

Following a well-earned tea break, members moved into the ever-popular Table Topics session. As always, the impromptu speaking section brought spontaneity, creativity, and plenty of laughter as participants were challenged to think quickly and speak confidently on the spot.

The meeting concluded with evaluations coordinated by Trevor O’Sullivan, where speakers received constructive and supportive feedback designed to encourage growth while celebrating strengths. These evaluations remain one of the most valuable aspects of Toastmasters, helping members continuously improve in a positive and encouraging environment.

Celebrating a Successful Year Together

The celebrations continued the following evening as members gathered once again in the Hibernian Hotel for the club’s end-of-year dinner, taking time to reflect on the achievements, friendships, and progress made throughout another successful Toastmasters season.

Speak Easy Group Celebrations closing out the 2025/26 year

The evening marked an important moment in the club calendar with the official handover of the Presidency, as Paul Corcoran formally passed the role to incoming President Rachel Liston, who will guide Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters through the 2026/27 year. Members expressed gratitude to Paul for his dedication, leadership, and commitment during his term as President while warmly welcoming Rachel into her new role.

Outgoing President Paul Corcoran handing over the role to incoming club President Rachel Liston

A particularly special highlight of the evening was the presentation of Jerry Mulcahy Toastmaster of the Year award, awarded to James McConville in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the club. James was acknowledged not only for his commitment to the club’s Public Relations efforts, but also for his consistent willingness to support fellow members in developing their meeting roles and confidence throughout the year.

James McConville receiving the Jerry Mulcahy award for 2025/26

Looking Ahead

As one Toastmasters year closes and another begins, Speak Easy Mallow looks ahead with excitement to another season of growth, communication, leadership, and friendship.

📅 First Meeting of the New Toastmasters Year: Thursday, 3rd September 2026, 7:45pm
📍 Hibernian Hotel, Mallow
🎟️ Guests are warmly welcome (€7 admission to cover room rental costs)

Whether you are hoping to improve your public speaking, develop leadership skills, boost workplace confidence, or simply meet like-minded people in a supportive environment, Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters promises a warm welcome.

A Night of Reflection, Multiple District Successes & Looking to the Future at Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters

Second-last meeting of the season blends engaging speeches, club leadership and celebration of district achievements

Contest Chair Tina Norbury (right) presents the results of the Table Topics Competition at the 2026 Rose Conference in Tralee. Pictured from left: Satya Morarji (2nd), James McGinty (1st), and Pat Sexton (3rd).

Peter Patton as Toastmaster for the Second Last Speak Easy Meeting of the Year

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters gathered on Thursday, May 14th in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow for the second-last meeting of the 2025–26 Toastmasters year, bringing together members and guests for another enjoyable and engaging evening of communication, confidence-building and personal development.

With the season gradually drawing to a close, the evening reflected the warmth, energy and supportive atmosphere that has defined the club throughout the year. Members stepped forward to take on roles, deliver speeches and continue developing their skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.

🌟 A Smoothly Run Evening of Learning and Leadership

The meeting was led by President Paul Corcoran, with Peter Patton taking on the role of Toastmaster and guiding the evening with confidence and professionalism. The Topics session was delivered by Paul Gallagher, encouraging participants to think on their feet and step outside their comfort zone through impromptu speaking. James McConville acted as General Evaluator for the evening. 

A reflective poem, “The Guy in the Glass” by Peter "Dale" Wimbrow Sr, added a thoughtful moment to proceedings and helped set the tone for an evening centred on growth and reflection. Read by guest Folusho Ishole, it was a welcome first time speaking opportunity in the club.

Folusho Ishole performing during Poetry Corner

🎤 Speeches That Entertained and Inspired

The meeting featured an engaging selection of prepared speeches, each showcasing the development and individuality of members on their Toastmasters journey:

• Trevor O’Sullivan delivered “The Mountain Pursuit Challenge Experience”, an engaging speech that entertained the audience while demonstrating creativity and strong storytelling. He was evaluated by Olivia Cashman, who provided supportive and constructive feedback as a first time evaluator.

• Liam Flynn presented “Funny Ways to Grow”, a Presentation Mastery icebreaker speech, combining insight and humour to connect with the audience. His evaluator, Juan Miguel Camarasa, highlighted strengths while offering valuable guidance for continued development, even for Liam, an established speaker in the club.

Each speech reflected the club’s focus on building confidence and communication skills in an atmosphere where every member is encouraged to grow at their own pace.

📚 Constructive Evaluations and Shared Learning

As always, a key strength of the evening was the quality of evaluations. Members received thoughtful, practical feedback designed to encourage progress while recognising achievements.

This spirit of support and development remains central to Toastmasters — ensuring every meeting becomes an opportunity to improve, connect and grow.

Juan Miguel Camarasa evaluating Liam Flynn's speech

🌹 Celebrating District Success at The Rose Conference 2026

There was further cause for celebration for Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters as club member Pat Sexton proudly represented Division A at the prestigious District 71 Finals during The Rose Conference 2026, held in Tralee from May 7th–8th in all 3 competitions - International Speech Contest, Evaluation Contest & Table Topics Contest respectively. No small feat! Overseeing the proceedings for the International Speech Contest was Speak Easy's very own President and Area Director Paul Corcoran. We are very proud of both club members for representing Mallow this year and look forward to their continued success.

The Rose conference brought together Toastmasters from across Ireland and the UK for a weekend of leadership, learning and high-level competition, culminating in the district speech contests.

Competing in the highly challenging Table Topics Contest — Toastmasters’ impromptu speaking competition — Pat took to the stage alongside the district’s strongest speakers, demonstrating composure, quick thinking and the courage that defines the Toastmasters spirit.

👏 A huge congratulations to Pat Sexton, who secured an outstanding 3rd place finish at District level — an incredible achievement and a proud moment for Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters and the wider Mallow community.

To place on the podium at District level against competitors from across the UK and Ireland is no small accomplishment and reflects Pat’s dedication, experience and continued commitment to public speaking excellence.

Every contestant who competed at District level demonstrated remarkable courage and skill, showing the very best of Toastmasters in action. Pat’s success is a reminder of what is possible when individuals are willing to step outside their comfort zone, continue learning, and develop confidence through practice and perseverance.

Pat Sexton competing in the Table Topics Competition at the Rose Conference 2026   

Paul Corcoran named Toastmaster of the Year 2025/26 

Speak Easy President Paul Corcoran was awarded the Toastmaster of the year by District A Director Patricia Radley. To raucous applause, Patricia acknowledged all of the hard work Paul has put into the club and district over the past year. A very large congratulations and sincere thanks to Paul for all his contributions during a challenging year. Comhghairdeas, a Phóil!

Patricia Radley presenting Paul Corcoran with the Toastmaster of the Year trophy

🗳️ AGM Marks an Important Club Milestone

Following the meeting, members remained for the club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), reflecting on the achievements of the year and looking ahead to the future of Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters.

The AGM provided an opportunity to discuss the continued growth of the club, celebrate progress, and begin preparations for another successful Toastmasters year.

🎯 Looking Ahead – The Final Meeting of the Season

Excitement is already building for the final meeting of the 2025–26 season, taking place on Thursday, May 28th in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow.

The evening promises another night full of energy, learning and laughter, with speeches, impromptu speaking and evaluations in the supportive and encouraging environment that members and guests have come to value.

👉 Guests are warmly invited to join us at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, from 7.45pm for an 8pm start, finishing at 10pm.

Whether you are looking to improve public speaking, build confidence, strengthen leadership skills or simply try something new, all are welcome.

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters continues to provide a space where members and guests alike can grow, connect, and find their voice. 🎤

A Night of Insight, Storytelling and Continued Growth at Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters

Engaging speeches and strong evaluations mark another successful evening in Mallow

Speakers on the night - Trevor O'Sullivan, Claire O'Connell, Anastasia Svezhentseva, Maria O'Donnell & Pat Sexton

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters hosted another enjoyable and engaging evening on Thursday, April 30th in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, as members and guests gathered for a night full of communication, creativity and connection. With the Toastmasters year shortly drawing to a close, the energy and enthusiasm within the club continues to build for the year ahead.

Anastasia Svezhentseva & Paul Corcoran

🌟 A Smooth and Supportive Meeting

The meeting was led by President Paul Corcoran, with Noel O’Connor taking on the role of Toastmaster, guiding proceedings with confidence and ease. James McConville led the Topics session, encouraging members to step outside their comfort zone through impromptu speaking. With all-encompassing topics such as designing a ride at Disneyland to becoming the "Banksy" of Mallow - the session was thoroughly enjoyed by all. 

Supporting roles were expertly carried out, with Michael Cronin as Timekeeper and Paul Corcoran as General Evaluator, ensuring a well-structured and high-quality meeting. Anastasia Svezhentseva delivered the evening’s poem "Wings" by Lina Kostenko, while Rose Murphy and Helsa Giles fulfilled the Ah Counter and Grammarian roles respectively — all contributing to a supportive and encouraging environment.

🎤 Speeches that Inform and Inspire

The evening featured a diverse and engaging line-up of prepared speeches, reflecting the continued development of members across their Toastmasters journeys:

• Maria O’Donnell delivered “Intuition and Instinct”, a Presentation Mastery speech exploring the balance between logic and inner guidance. She was evaluated by Margaret O’Regan, who offered thoughtful and constructive feedback.

Maria O'Donnell giving us a lively, humorous and inspired speech

• Trevor O’Sullivan entertained the audience with “My Cruise Experience”, an engaging humour speech with purpose. Rachel Liston provided a supportive evaluation, highlighting both strengths and opportunities for growth.

Trevor O'Sullivan during his speech

• Claire O’Connell presented “The Thing with Feelings”, connecting with the audience through authenticity and reflection. Her evaluator, Marie Lynes, commended her delivery and offered valuable insights.

Claire O'Connell giving her speech

• Pat Sexton delivered “Until You Hear the Bell”, a Visionary Communication Level 2 speech, showcasing his experience and strong stage presence. He was evaluated by Brendan Foley, who provided encouraging and insightful feedback.

Pat Sexton giving his competition winning speech

Each speech demonstrated the core Toastmasters principle of building confidence and communication skills through practice and feedback.

📚 Learning Through Evaluation

A key highlight of the evening was the quality of evaluations, with each speaker receiving constructive, encouraging and practical feedback. This emphasis on growth ensures that every meeting contributes to the ongoing development of members in a positive and structured way.

Marie Lynes evaluating Claire O'Connell's speech

☕ Community and Connection

The meeting also included a relaxed tea break, offering members and guests the opportunity to chat, connect and strengthen the welcoming community spirit that defines Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters.

Marie Lynes & Claire O'Connell

Liam Flynn & Pat Sexton

🎯 Looking Ahead – Second Last Meeting of the Season

With just two meetings remaining in the 2025–26 Toastmasters year, anticipation is building for the next gathering on Thursday, May 14th, which will be the second last meeting of the season.

Brendan Foley & Bobby Buckley

This meeting promises to be another night full of energy, learning and laughter, and will conclude with the club’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), where members will reflect on the year and look ahead to the future of the club.

👉 Guests are warmly invited to attend the meeting portion of the evening at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow at 7.45pm for an 8pm start.

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters continues to provide a space where members and guests alike can grow, connect, and find their voice. 🎤

Claire O'Connell & Margaret O'Regan

An Evening of Growth & Leadership at Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters

Area Director visit highlights a night of engaging speeches and strong community spirit

Group Photo from the evening.

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters hosted another enjoyable and engaging evening on Thursday, April 16th 2026 in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow. With a special visit from Area Director Paul Corcoran, the meeting was a celebration of communication, leadership and the continued growth of members in a supportive and encouraging environment.

Top Table for the evening - Rose Murphy, Paul Corcoran and Helsa Giles

🌟 A Well-Run and Inspiring Programme

The meeting was led by President Paul Corcoran, who also attended in his role as Area Director, bringing an added sense of occasion to the evening. Helsa Giles guided proceedings as the evening's Toastmaster, ensuring a smooth and welcoming flow throughout.

The Topics session was led by Rose Murphy on her first outing in the role, encouraging members to step outside their comfort zone with impromptu speaking. While Anastasia Svezhentseva kept time with precision. Noel O’Connor served as General Evaluator, overseeing the quality and effectiveness of the meeting.

Rose Murphy, first time Toastmaster with Michael Cronin answering a topic.

Additional roles added depth and richness to the evening, with Maria O’Donnell delivering a reflective reading of “The Journey” by Mary Oliver, Peter Patton as Ah Counter, and Paul Corcoran also taking on the role of Grammarian.

🎤 Speeches that Showcase Development

A strong line-up of prepared speeches highlighted the diversity and progress of members on their Toastmasters journey:

• Olivia Cashman delivered “Having fun with scammers”, a Presentation Mastery Level 1 speech, sharing insights with clarity and confidence. She was evaluated by Maria O’Donnell, who provided supportive and constructive feedback.

Olivia Cashman during her speech

• James McConville presented “Become a PRO at P-R-O” from the Visionary Leadership pathway, offering a compelling and engaging delivery. His evaluator, Brendan Foley, highlighted his strengths while offering valuable guidance for further growth.

• Paul Gallagher delivered a prepared speech as part of his pathway development, demonstrating commitment and progress. He was evaluated by Pat Sexton, who provided thoughtful and encouraging feedback.

Paul Gallagher during his speech

• Rachel Liston brought creativity and humour to the stage with “Green fingers”, an Engaging Humour Level 1 speech. Claire O’Connell evaluated her speech, recognising her strengths and encouraging continued development.

Liam Flynn with Marie Lynes

Each speech reflected the Toastmasters ethos of building confidence and communication skills, with every member progressing at their own pace in a positive and constructive setting.

📚 Learning Through Evaluation and Leadership

The evaluation segment of the meeting provided valuable insights, with each speaker receiving feedback designed to support their continued improvement.

A highlight of the evening was the address from Area Director Paul Corcoran, who shared words of encouragement and recognised the strength and momentum of the club, reinforcing the importance of leadership and community within Toastmasters.

☕ Community, Connection and Continued Success

Noel O'Connor as General Evaluator

With a well-structured programme, enthusiastic participation, and a welcoming atmosphere, the meeting was another great success — filled with energy, learning and laughter.

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters continues to thrive as a place where members and guests alike can grow, connect and find their voice.

👉 The next meeting will take place on Thursday, April 30th at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, at 7.45pm for an 8pm start. All are welcome.

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters continues to provide a space where confidence is built, skills are developed, and voices are heard. 🎤

Spring Energy and Strong Voices at Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters

 An Evening of Growth and Connection at Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters

Prepared speeches, thoughtful evaluations and a supportive community atmosphere

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters hosted another enjoyable and engaging evening on Thursday, April 2nd in the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, bringing together members and guests for a night full of learning, confidence-building and connection.

🌟 A Smooth and Welcoming Programme

Our Speakers - Brendan Foley, Bobby Buckley, Noel O'Connor & Maria O'Donnell

The meeting was led by President Paul Corcoran, with Liam Flynn taking on the role of Toastmaster, guiding the evening with warmth and professionalism. Juan Miguel Camarasa delivered a lively Topics session, while Helsa Giles, as General Evaluator, ensured the meeting maintained a high standard throughout.

Supporting roles were expertly carried out, with Rose Murphy as Timekeeper, Trevor O’Sullivan presenting a reflective poetry reading, and Ah Counter and Grammarian duties fulfilled by Olivia Cashman and Claire O’Connell. Together, the team created a supportive and encouraging environment where members could thrive.

🎤 Speeches that Inspire and Challenge

The evening featured a strong line-up of prepared speeches, each highlighting the journey of growth and development within the club:

• Maria O’Donnell delivered a thought-provoking speech titled “There is no education like adversity,” exploring the value of resilience and personal growth. She was evaluated by Pat Sexton, who provided insightful and supportive feedback.
• Brendan Foley presented an entertaining speech focused on mastering presentation skills, demonstrating clear progress and confidence. His evaluator, James McConville, offered constructive guidance to support his continued development.
• Noel O’Connor also delivered a prepared speech centred on presentation mastery, showcasing strong engagement with the audience. He was evaluated by newer member Peter Patton, who highlighted both strengths and opportunities for growth.
• Bobby Buckley presented “The red apple of friendship” as part of his Visionary Communication project, bringing creativity and storytelling to the stage. His speech was evaluated by Paul Corcoran, who commended his delivery and message.

Each speaker demonstrated the essence of Toastmasters — stepping outside your comfort zone and developing confidence through practice and feedback.

📚 Learning Through Evaluation

A key strength of the evening was the high quality of evaluations, with each speaker receiving constructive, encouraging and practical feedback. This focus on development ensures that every member continues to build confidence and communication skills in a positive setting.

☕ Community and Connection

The meeting also included a relaxed tea break, giving members and guests the opportunity to connect, share experiences and strengthen the welcoming community spirit that defines Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters.

🎯 A Continued Success

With a well-structured programme and active participation from members across all roles, the meeting was a great success — a true reflection of the club’s commitment to growth, learning and community.

👉 The next meeting will take place on Thursday, April 16th at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, at 7.45pm for an 8pm start. Guests are always welcome.

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters continues to provide a space where members and guests alike can grow, connect, and find their voice. 🎤

New Voices Take Centre Stage at Mallow Toastmasters

An evening of first speeches, confidence and community in the Hibernian Hotel

New members, New Voices in Mallow, Anastasiya Svethentseva, Juan Miguel Camarasa, Rose Murphy and Peter Patton.

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A Night Dedicated to New Beginnings

Speak Easy Toastmasters gathered on Thursday, 19th March 2026 at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, for a special meeting themed “New Voices.” The evening focused on giving the newest members the opportunity to step up and deliver their first speeches in a the most supportive and encouraging environment.

Club President Paul Corcoran opened proceedings, before handing over to Toastmaster Claire O’Connell, who guided the meeting with warmth and professionalism, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere for both members and guests.

Rose Murphy with her Evaluator for the evening, Michael Cronin

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A Strong Team Behind the Scenes

A full team supported the evening’s programme. Marie Lynes led the Table Topics session as Topicsmaster, while Maria O’Donnell carefully managed time. Bobby Buckley took on the role of General Evaluator, overseeing the quality and flow of the meeting.

General Evaluator Bobby Buckley, Margaret O'Regan and Pat Sexton

Additional roles were carried out by Rachel Liston as Ah Counter and Noel O’Connor as Grammarian, both contributing to the educational aspect of the evening.

 Evaluator Brendan Foley

A reflective moment came during Poetry Corner, where Michael Cronin delivered Seamus Heaney’s “When All the Others Were Away at Mass,” adding a thoughtful and cultural touch to the proceedings.

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New Members Step Into the Spotlight

The highlight of the evening was the series of prepared speeches, particularly from new members taking their first steps on the Toastmasters journey.

Anastasiya Svezhentseva opened with “Finding Myself Again,” an Icebreaker speech that introduced her poignant story to the audience.

Speaker Anastasiya Svenhentseva and her Evaluator Margaret O'Regan

 This was closely followed by Rose Murphy with “The Edge,” another Icebreaker that demonstrated confidence and honesty. Both speeches were warmly received and evaluated by Margaret O’Regan and Michael Cronin respectively.

Speaker Rose Murphy

More experienced speakers also took to the stage. Juan Miguel Camarasa delivered “When You Wish for Something, but It Goes Wrong,” a Presentation Mastery Level 1 speech evaluated by Pat Sexton. 

Pat Sexton, Evaluator for Juan Miguel Camarasa 

The final speech of the night came from Peter Patton with his original piece “Luck or Maven,” evaluated by Brendan Foley.

Evaluator Brendan Foley and Peter Patton

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Beyond the Club: Opportunities to Go Global

During the meeting, PRO James McConville shared an informative update on the opportunities available to members beyond the local club. From attending online meetings in Blarney to Australia, Toastmasters offers members the chance to connect, learn and speak on a global stage — one of the many unique benefits of joining.

 

Speaker Peter Patton

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A Supportive Finish and Looking Ahead

Following a sociable break with tea and coffee, the meeting concluded with a comprehensive evaluation session led by Bobby Buckley, reinforcing the supportive and developmental ethos of Toastmasters.

The evening was widely regarded as a great success, with new members already looking forward to returning to the podium.

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Join Us at the Next Meeting

Speak Easy Mallow Toastmasters meets every second Thursday at the Hibernian Hotel, Mallow, from 7.45pm for an 8.00pm start, finishing at 10.00pm.

The next meeting will take place on April 2nd 2026, and new guests are always welcome. Anyone interested in building confidence, improving communication skills, or simply trying something new is encouraged to come along and experience it for themselves.