http://www.arunspeakers.net/, https://www.facebook.com/groups/791209902879624/

Arun Speakers Club, Friends Meeting House, Priory Road, Chichester (2026)

22/05/2026

What a wonderfully full and bustling meeting we had this week; truly a hive of activity as we celebrated World Bee Day! 🐝

Bettina embraced the theme brilliantly as our very own “Queen Bee,” bringing plenty of creative buzz to the evening.

Marci opened the meeting with a lively warm-up session on favourite fictional characters, sparking responses that ranged from beloved children’s stories to classic literary figures.

We then heard David’s confessional and entertaining Ice Breaker speech, “A Naked Surprise,” marking the start of what promises to be a fantastic Toastmasters journey.

A real highlight of the evening was Gina completing her Level 5 project with the inspiring speech, “I Thought I Was Just Popping In.” Gina reflected on the confidence and growth she has gained since first visiting the club — sharing how taking on roles, speaking opportunities, and receiving supportive real-time evaluations helped her develop step by step. Her speech beautifully captured what Toastmasters is all about: a supportive environment where members can grow, celebrate successes, take risks, and even fail publicly while being encouraged every step of the way.

Don then led an eclectic and entertaining Table Topics session covering everything from royal celebrations and nature to AI and even frogspawn!

Thank you to our evaluators, Mandy, Phil, Will, Jonathan, and Colin, for their thoughtful and encouraging feedback throughout the evening.

The meeting concluded with Gina presenting the evening’s awards:
🏆 Level 2 Competition - Paul
🏆 Ice Breaker - David
🏆 Best Table Topic - Anil
🏆 Best Evaluator - Jonathan

One particularly lovely comment came from guest Amber, who said she “didn’t know what to expect but certainly didn’t expect the evening to be so full of humour and so much fun.” We couldn’t ask for a better summary of the night!

We were also delighted that two other guests, Alex, and Simon, have now joined as new members and were warmly welcomed to our family.

Overall, it was a fabulous meeting that truly showcased the many benefits of Toastmasters: confidence, communication, growth, support, laughter, and community.

30/04/2026

What a fantastic evening at Arun Speakers! 🎤✨

We had a brilliant meeting on the 29th of April as we dove into the “Successful Club Series.” It was a night packed with insights on how we can all grow together and keep our club thriving.

🌟 Meeting Highlights

The Successful Club Series: We heard three incredible presentations:

Bettina Ringsdorf on "Keeping the Commitment."

Andy Hammond on "How to Be a Distinguished Club."

Colin Simmons on "Going Beyond Our Club."

Table Topics: Our impromptu speaking session was absolutely great! A huge shoutout to Will, who won the evening with a stellar performance! 🏆

Expert Evaluation: We were lucky to have Colin Simmons, a District Evaluation Finalist, provide the Table Topics evaluation.

A big thank you to our Toastmaster of the evening, Andy Hammond, and our SAA, Debra Hall, for keeping everything running smoothly.

📅 Join Us Next Time!
Interested in boosting your confidence and leadership skills? Come visit us! We meet every 1st and 3rd Wednesday.

Upcoming Dates:

May 6th (AGM)

May 20th

June 3rd

📍 Find us: www.arunspeakers.net
🌐 Learn more: www.toastmasters.org

22/04/2026

🎤 Could you speak for 1 minute in front of friendly people?

That’s how confidence starts.

At our recent Arun Speakers Toastmasters meeting, members took part in:

✨ Inspiring speeches
✨ Fun impromptu speaking games
✨ Laughter and encouragement
✨ Supportive feedback to help people grow

We heard stories of resilience, personal change, athletic achievement and imagination — from Ironman competitions to fictional worlds balanced on giant turtles!

Whether you're confident already or terrified of public speaking, Toastmasters helps people become stronger communicators in work and life.

You do not need experience.

You do not need to speak on your first visit.

You’ll receive a warm welcome.

📍 Arun Speakers Toastmasters
👥 Guests always welcome

Message us if you'd like to visit our next meeting. We meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month - https://arunspeakers.net/

22/04/2026

Rapporteur’s Report – Toastmasters Meeting15th April 2026

The evening began with our President announcing that Arun Speakers has been recognised by Toastmasters International as a distinguished club!

Today’s meeting transported us through language, learning, courage, humour and personal growth. With the theme of “Slang Through the Ages,” we were treated to a lively and varied programme full of warmth, wit and wisdom.

We opened with a smooth introduction from our Toastmaster, who guided us confidently through the evening’s agenda. Roles for the evening were clearly explained, helping guests and newer members understand the flow of a Toastmasters meeting.

Warm-Up Session George got us started with an energetic warm-up designed to “get into the flow.” We explored languages our members would like to learn, with mentions of Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, Latin, Welsh and even the language of love. It was a lively reminder of how communication connects cultures.We were also given a memorable “Japanese lesson,” where words such as shiver, angry and constipated somehow became unforgettable audience favourites!

Prepared Speeches Sandra introduced Colin, who delivered a thought-provoking speech titled “The Architect of the After.” Speaking on the subject of change, Colin reminded us that change can feel scary, uncomfortable and uncertain – yet often brings growth and opportunity. It was a well-structured speech with a clear message and strong examples.

Sarah then inspired us with her powerful story of becoming an international Ironman athlete. She spoke honestly about the ups and downs of training, setbacks, moments of self-doubt and the determination needed to keep going. Her achievements included world championship success and her upcoming participation in the London Marathon and a triathlon in June. Her speech was a moving example of courage, resilience. She didn’t give up, she gave back.

Table Topics

Our impromptu speaking session was lively, creative and full of surprises.Topics included:
What significant date in history coincides with an important date in your own life?
What book should have been made into a film instead?
If you could holiday in a fictional world, where would you go?

Responses ranged from the Bluebell Championships, to Terry Pratchett’s Discworld and referencing four elephants and a giant turtle. One speaker suggested that “the Hex equivalent needs changing regularly” – a line that certainly caught attention!Another imaginative topic asked what invention should never have been developed. How would you have answered that question?

Evaluations

Our evaluators offered thoughtful, constructive and encouraging feedback.
Colin’s evaluator praised his calm delivery, strong theme and ability to engage the audience.

Sarah’s evaluator noted how her story left the audience wanting more, and commended the structure and emotional honesty of her speech.

The General Evaluator commended the smooth running of the meeting, clear role explanations and positive atmosphere throughout.

Grammar and humour were also carefully monitored, with some bold language choices and memorable one-liners highlighted for special mention.

Awards

At the close of the meeting, congratulations went to:🏆� Best Table Topic: Sandra🏆� Best Evaluator: ColinClosing ThoughtsToday’s meeting reminded us that Toastmasters is about much more than speaking. It is about courage, learning, laughter, creativity and supporting one another to grow.Whether discussing history, humour, personal triumph or giant turtles in space, every speaker contributed something valuable.

Thank you all for another excellent meeting.

22/04/2026

Rapporteur’s Report – Toastmasters Meeting15th April 2026

The evening began with our President announcing that Arun Speakers has been recognised by Toastmasters International as a distinguished club!

Today’s meeting transported us through language, learning, courage, humour and personal growth. With the theme of “Slang Through the Ages,” we were treated to a lively and varied programme full of warmth, wit and wisdom.

We opened with a smooth introduction from our Toastmaster, who guided us confidently through the evening’s agenda. Roles for the evening were clearly explained, helping guests and newer members understand the flow of a Toastmasters meeting.

Warm-Up Session George got us started with an energetic warm-up designed to “get into the flow.” We explored languages our members would like to learn, with mentions of Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, Latin, Welsh and even the language of love. It was a lively reminder of how communication connects cultures.

We were also given a memorable “Japanese lesson,” where words such as shiver, angry and constipated somehow became unforgettable audience favourites!

Prepared Speeches
Sandra introduced Colin, who delivered a thought-provoking speech titled “The Architect of the After.” Speaking on the subject of change, Colin reminded us that change can feel scary, uncomfortable and uncertain – yet often brings growth and opportunity. It was a well-structured speech with a clear message and strong examples.

Sarah then inspired us with her powerful story of becoming an international Ironman athlete. She spoke honestly about the ups and downs of training, setbacks, moments of self-doubt and the determination needed to keep going. Her achievements included world championship success and her upcoming participation in the London Marathon and a triathlon in June. Her speech was a moving example of courage, resilience. She didn’t give up, she gave back.

Table TopicsOur impromptu speaking session was lively, creative and full of surprises.
Topics included: What significant date in history coincides with an important date in your own life?
What book should have been made into a film instead?
If you could holiday in a fictional world, where would you go?Responses ranged from the Bluebell Championships, to Terry Pratchett’s Discworld and referencing four elephants and a giant turtle. One speaker suggested that “the Hex equivalent needs changing regularly” – a line that certainly caught attention!

Another imaginative topic asked what invention should never have been developed. How would you have answered that question?

Evaluations
Our evaluators offered thoughtful, constructive and encouraging feedback.

Colin’s evaluator praised his calm delivery, strong theme and ability to engage the audience.
Sarah’s evaluator noted how her story left the audience wanting more, and commended the structure and emotional honesty of her speech.
The General Evaluator commended the smooth running of the meeting, clear role explanations and positive atmosphere throughout.
Grammar and humour were also carefully monitored, with some bold language choices and memorable one-liners highlighted for special mention.
Awards
At the close of the meeting, congratulations went to:🏆� Best Table Topic: Sandra🏆� Best Evaluator: Colin
Closing ThoughtsToday’s meeting reminded us that Toastmasters is about much more than speaking. It is about courage, learning, laughter, creativity and supporting one another to grow.Whether discussing history, humour, personal triumph or giant turtles in space, every speaker contributed something valuable.

Thank you all for another excellent meeting.

14/04/2026

No Jokes Here (Mostly!) – Another Great Night at Toastmasters!
What a way to kick off April! We had a packed house tonight, full of energy, "shenanigans," and a few early Easter treats.

🎙️ The A-Team
Our Toastmaster Jonathan opened the meeting with his signature relaxed and humorous style—the perfect antidote to a busy Wednesday. Debora, our Sergeant at Arms, leaned into the date with a classic April Fools' Day joke to get us laughing from the start!

🗣️ Word of the Day & Warm-ups
Chris (Grammarian): Challenged us to use the word "shenanigans" (there were plenty!).

Alex (Warm-up): Led a great chat about the clocks changing. From gardening plans to long evening walks, we are all ready for those lighter spring days! 🌷

📜 Prepared Speeches
Anil (Ice Breaker): Delivered a fantastic first speech! He showed us how to use "spin words" to land a point with impact, all while keeping us chuckling with his great sense of humor.

Gina: Gave us some food for thought on Vision and Mission. She challenged the room to think: Are you just busy, or are you being productive? # # # 🏆 Efficiency & Impromptu Fun

Collin kept the whole evening running with his usual elegance and efficiency.

Sandra (Table Topics): Led our impromptu session with a seasonal twist! She rewarded our brave speakers with Easter bunny prizes 🐰—because speaking off-the-cuff is always easier when there’s chocolate involved!

Interested in joining the "shenanigans"? Whether you want to improve your public speaking or just find your voice, you’re always welcome. Drop us a message to join our next meeting!

31/03/2026

After a delightfully sunny day the toastmasters were greeted by our Sergeant at Arms Debra.

Our President, Gina, warmly greeted everyone, dealt with club business, and then handed over to our Toastmaster of the Day, Will, who introduced the team supporting the evening: Alex as Rapporteur, taking notes of the evening’s highlights.
Marci as timekeeper, explained it was her 'rst time with a role – and what a great role to kick o) with!
Our Grammarian and Humour Evaluator, Andy explained he will be looking for both intentional and unintentional humour – along with the subtle use of the word of the day ‘Resolution’! With todays theme being around Recycling Andy would be looking for both new and ‘recycled’ humour!
And our General evaluator, Don who will be evaluating anything and everything else giving feedback to encourage!
Anil kicked things with the warm-up, reassuring guests they are free to ‘pass’ if they wish and promised there would be no ‘booing’ or ‘tutting’! Mixing things up tonight we started in reverse order – some what of a shock for those at the back – we spoke about topics we light to talk about. Lots of talk of food, and pets and even the weather!
Our first speech, “The Subconscious as a Prediction Machine” by Emma, introduced by evaluator Gina, was thought-provoking and detailed how our brains try and protect us using experiences from the past.

Next, Debra introduced Kate’s speech, “Great Expectations” detailed just that, how they had great expectations and although not met – there were positive outcomes to be had!

In Colin’s speech “Postcards from beyond” introduced by Mandy we learnt a lot about his family holidays as a child. The world of the 70s and 80s through the power of postcards. How heartwarming and certainly got us all vowing to send more post cards.

After a well-deserved refreshment break, Bettina led a Table Topics session inspired by today’s date.
Alex kicked us of talking of habits from the past that would now be recycled.
David spoke of his superpower to be invisible and listen in on conversations!
Anil spoke of how he might de-clutter something in his life if forced!
And Chris had the pleasure of telling us if Spring were starting a new job, it’s resume might say.. ‘Has the opportunity to make people inspired’

We then moved to the evaluations of the prepared speeches, followed by Table Topics evaluator Colin who did well to keep to time evaluating that many!
Andy gave his Grammarian and Humour report, and we were ablet o re-live some of the funniest moments of the evening.
Don provided a very thorough general evaluation, we concluded with the Timer’s Report, the voting for our favourites, and the presentation of awards by Gina.

The meeting closed on a high note — a wonderful way to spend a Spring evening, full of warmth, humour, and inspiration.

23/03/2026

Huge congratulations to Colin for an incredible win at the Division Evaluation Contest this past Saturday! 🏆🎉

The competition was incredibly tough, with some of the sharpest analytical minds in the division bringing their A-game. But Colin’s insight, clarity, and poise truly stood out, earning him the top spot on the podium.

Colin will now be moving on to represent our Division at the District Contests this May! We are so proud to have him carrying the torch for us.

Please join us in celebrating this well-deserved victory and wishing him the best of luck as he prepares for the next level. We know you’re going to crush it, Colin! 🌟👏

11/03/2026

Last week's meeting captured exactly what Toastmasters is all about: growth, courage, humour and becoming the person we are capable of being. The theme of the evening was ‘Becoming’.

Prepared Speeches

We heard a series of inspiring prepared speeches that demonstrated the many ways communication can challenge and transform us.

The first speech explored “The Maratona”, drawing parallels between endurance training and developing as a speaker. The message highlighted the importance of vocal variety, persistence and the pathways we take as we strengthen our communication skills. It was a reminder that improvement, like marathon training, happens step by step — sometimes even climbing what feels like a 10km mountain.

The second speaker delivered a speech titled “Learning from the Best.”
This was an engaging reflection on mentoring and influence, referencing iconic comedians such as Marty Feldman, Jack Dee, Bill Bailey and Bill Hicks. One memorable insight stood out:

“Don’t try to be funny — try to have a good memory.”

Great speakers and comedians often succeed not by chasing laughter, but by observing life closely and remembering the details that resonate with audiences.

The final speech, “Actions Can Be Louder,” reminded us that leadership and inspiration are often demonstrated through behaviour rather than words. The speech reflected on lessons from the Covid era, when many people were reminded how precious freedom can be. A powerful example shared was that of a 92-year-old gym-goer, showing that determination and resilience can push boundaries regardless of age or circumstance.

Table Topics

Our Table Topics session, led by George, sparked some creative and entertaining responses. What do you think your impromptu response would be?

Questions included:
• What superpower would you choose?
To be incredibly strong — and not need AI to achieve it.
• What would you do if you received a gift from someone you secretly disliked?
This prompted reflections on honesty and the challenge of being a people pleaser.
• If you could live in any retail store with one week of unlimited spending power, where would it be?
Harrods — of course! With all those departments to explore, plenty of food, change of clothes and anything else you could lay your hands on!
• When did you almost feel famous?
For one speaker, it was the unforgettable experience of standing inside the Olympic Stadium, feeling like a VIP.
A special mention goes to Lesley, who ran the session with great pacing, encouragement and energy — using applause, pauses and supportive prompts to help speakers warm up and find their flow.

Supportive Community

One of the real strengths of Toastmasters is the way members support each other while still developing their own authentic speaking style.

Every meeting demonstrates that progress doesn’t require perfection — only practice, courage and encouragement.

Final Reflection

A powerful closing thought captured the spirit of the evening:
Release old fears and worries…
and stay open to the person you are becoming.

That is the essence of Toastmasters.

Every speech, every table topic and every evaluation moves us forward.

And tonight, that journey continued.

02/03/2026

"I always look forward to seeing everyone and try to keep Wednesdays free for the group."

There is a special energy at Arun Speakers. It’s not just a class—it’s a community of people dedicated to raising each other’s abilities. If you’re looking for a mid-week boost of inspiration and leadership training, we have a seat saved for you.

📍 Find us at: Friends Meeting House, Chichester wed Schedule: 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month 🕖 Time: 7:00 PM

Come for the communication skills, stay for the "awesome people."

Arun Speakers Club

22/05/2026

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22/04/2026

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14/04/2026

31/03/2026

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02/03/2026

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