Mangaluru: Toastmasters District 121 Conference Inaugurated

Mangaluru: Toastmasters District 121 Conference Inaugurated

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, May 17, 2025: The Toastmasters District 121 Annual Conference, Crescendo100@Kudla, was inaugurated on Friday, May 16, at The Avatar Hotel Convention Centre in Mangaluru. Set against the vibrant and culturally rich backdrop of Mangaluru, the inaugural ceremony marked the beginning of a landmark three-day event, organised by the Toastmasters clubs from Mangaluru and surrounding towns. Drawing over 425 delegates from Toastmasters clubs across Karnataka and Kerala, the conference coincides with the centenary year of Toastmasters International. It promises a dynamic blend of inspirational talks, speech contests, workshops, cultural showcases, and networking sessions that celebrate excellence in public speaking and leadership.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The highlight of the event was the keynote address by Dananjaya Hettiarachchi, the acclaimed Sri Lankan orator and 2014 World Champion of Public Speaking. In his talk, Hettiarachchi spoke about the importance of preparation, character and perseverance. “Before you become a world champion, you must be a champion off-stage,” he said, noting that the stage magnifies both strengths and flaws. He urged the audience to commit deeply to their goals, take calculated risks, and cultivate the endurance required for sustained success.

Pawas Chandra, International Director for Region 13 (India and Southeast Asia), was the guest of honour. He reflected on the values of integrity, respect, service, and excellence as fundamental to personal and collective growth. “If you have to go higher, you must be willing to go deeper,” he remarked, encouraging participants to reflect on their inner motivations and guiding values.

District Director Savita Salian, who served as the chief host, praised the organising team for creating a meaningful platform for learning and connection. “This conference brings together the energy of many, fostering a spirit of community and individual growth,” she observed.

The inaugural ceremony featured a ceremonial flag march, national anthem and the traditional lighting of the lamp. Conference Chair Amith Ananda gave a unique Yakshagana-themed welcome, while Co-Chair Pandiarajan R. extended a formal greeting. The occasion also witnessed the release of the official conference souvenir and the felicitation of 13 members who earned the Distinguished Toastmaster certification. Sixty long-standing members were honoured for completing decades of active participation.

Cultural performances by various clubs added vibrancy to the evening, showcasing the diversity and enthusiasm of the region. The programme was anchored by Niranjana of VR Advanced Toastmasters, Bengaluru, and Anju Ann Thomas from Allianz Services Toastmasters, Trivandrum. All district officers including M. N. Pai (District Finance Manager), Dr. Sophia Zacharias (Area Director) and Dr. C. K. Ballal (Sponsorship Chair) were present along with other guests.

Toastmasters International is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to developing communication and leadership skills with over 300,000 members across 149 countries.