Page 24 - 2015-08.pub

Why I Decided to Join
Toastmasters

By Liliana Bastres

I joined Toastmasters because I wanted to communicate my ideas effectively in meetings, during
presentations and with my supervisors. I believed my voice needed to be heard since I had a different
cultural perspective. I also wanted to make meaningful contributions in my position while serving
Clackamas County residents.

It has been a challenge for me to find the right words at the right time and speak assertively since
English is my second language. I could hear my heart racing, my mouth becoming dry, and my
frustration increasing when I couldn’t express my thoughts completely. It was stressful giving
presentations. I knew that if I could find a place where I could practice my communication skills
in a safe and supportive environment, I would overcome anxiety and express my ideas well.

One year ago, I received an email invitation to attend a Toastmaster meeting sponsored by the County.
After attending the first meeting, I knew I had found an opportunity to practice my communication skills
and be encouraged by my peers.
At my first speech, I provided information about my background, interests and goals. I was extremely
nervous and read from my notes. Afterwards, I was told that they liked my story and received a couple of
suggestions for improvements. I was relieved and motivated to continue this journey. I found my training
wheels to become a confident speaker.
During my last meeting, a Toastmasters member congratulated me on how well I was doing since I started.
Her encouragement meant a lot to me. My peers at Toastmasters are native speakers, and like me are
being challenged to improve their communication skills. It’s the best decision I have made recently.
If you think you could benefit
from joining Toastmasters,
you are invited to come and
visit us.
The County has two
Toastmasters clubs for
employees:
1) The Clack-Orators meet
every Tuesday from 12:05-
1pm in Development
Services Building, Room
#209.
Do you have a 5-7 minute
presentation coming up?
The Clack-Orators will offer
you suggestions to improve
your speech. You can drop
in and practice in front of a
small, fun, and friendly group
of County employees.
2) The Clackamas County
Toastmasters meet every
Wednesday from 12:05-1pm
in Development Services Building,
Room #209.

24 Volume 2 Issue 2 - AUG 2015