NEW MEMBERS WELCOME: Debby Looney from Killarney Toastmasters says new members are welcome to the group which is currently using Zoom due to the restrictions. Photo: Michelle Crean

By Michelle Crean

COVID restrictions doesn't mean you can't take on a new hobby or learn a new skill - as one local club is proving - now that they've taken their classes online.

The local Killarney Toastmasters group is still very active - although now it's online - but they're seeking new members to join them and what a better way to meet new people and socialise.

Yes, they are a public speaking club, and as restrictions mean they cannot meet in person for now, they took to virtual meet ups and it's all very easy.

Now they're looking for new members and are inviting the public to come along as a guest via Zoom to give it a go.

"At Toastmasters we are certainly feeling this challenge, but are doing our best to rise to it," Debby Looney, a member of the club, told the Killarney Advertiser.

"For many of us, the thought of standing before a room full of people, be they a class of eager students, work colleagues, church attendees or friends and family at a function, is daunting at best, terrifying at worst. Toastmasters is an international organisation, which has helped members for almost one hundred years to overcome their nerves when speaking in public. A large part of this is also gaining the confidence to take on leadership roles. It is relevant to so many parts of life, at home, in the workplace and at other clubs and associations," she said.

"I personally joined Toastmasters following the funeral of a dear family member. I just could not face my family to say a few words about her, and this haunted me for a long time. I still regret having had such a fear, but am glad to have joined Toastmasters and conquered it. So, speaking from experience, Toastmasters works.
However, a large part of the experience of this club, and much of the enjoyment of going, is meeting new people from all walks of life, who give speeches on the most diverse topics – from hillwalking, travelling and sports to personal stories, life experiences and technical talks. You come away from each meeting knowing something new!"

ZOOM

"Our club now uses Zoom to conduct virtual meetings. There are downsides to this, of course. The personal contact is certainly something I miss. The thing is, there are many upsides also. There is a skill in presenting a speech to people via a computer, a skill which many people now need as they are working from home. When presenting via a computer, it is not just speaking; there is lighting, sound, background and even make-up to consider! Where better to practice than in the safe, positive environment of a club where everyone has your best interest at heart? Zoom meetings also cut out the travelling – you can now enjoy the club from the comfort of your armchair, which is very nice as the winter closes in. Members who live in remote parts of the county, as well as vulnerable members, can now continue to enjoy the social aspect of the club meeting," Debby said.

"Despite the new format our meetings have taken, we continue to offer the benefits Toastmasters offers, albeit in different ways. We continue to welcome new members, and encourage ‘guests’ to join our meetings, much like we always have. In fact, people who have long wondered what it’s all about have now joined a virtual meeting, and I would encourage anyone to do so!"

The group meet every second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Their online meetings run from 7.30pm to 9pm. Have a look at their Facebook page, email killarney.toastmasters@gmail.com, or phone Debby, on 086 6088156 if you are considering becoming a member or would like to join as a guest.