Posted by Dorothea Stuart
Creating traditions. Making your club even more special.
In London (Div B) we all get involved in annual club contests culminating in the UK & Ireland finals or beyond. But some of our clubs have special contests of their own. Unique, fun events reflecting the culture and interests of those particular clubs. And also giving members another outstanding opportunity to hone their speaking skills.
Two such events will be happening soon. Get out your diary and put in the annual Persuaders Contest at London Corinthians (this Thursday 12th June) and the Socrates Cup (Tuesday 8th July), an annual debate between London Athenians and West London Speakers.
Describing the Persuaders Contest Amy Jackson VPE, London Corinthians says "it gives a opportunity for new members to take the plunge and enter a contest, as well as challenging all the participants."
How does it work? In the first round everyone gives a three minute persuasive speech on any subject they wish. Having attended last year I can confirm that there was an extraordinary range of passionately argued speeches both serious and humorous. The second round, for the five finalists is topics style so you hear very different persuasive arguments on the same subject. As Amy says, "Persuaders is now a tradition. We couldn't imagine the end of the Toastmasters year without it."
At West London Speakers President Kimra Argus is looking forward to the next Socrates Cup debate. Having just celebrated their second birthday in effervescent style the "Champagne Club" of Hammersmith is more than ready to field its team for the debate with its sister club.
Why did they choose a debate? As Hakan Akbas, President London Athenians confirms, with the proud tradition of ancient Greece behind them they really had no choice. He particularly values the Socrates Cup as "a way to encourage members to think more creatively." The debate team members use all their Toastmaster speaking skills in a format demanding persuasiveness and quick thinking. "The debate brings out the skills we practice in table topics, as well as encouraging the audience to evaluate the arguments put forward. It's also an opportunity to bring the two clubs together in friendly rivalry."
All three clubs would love you to visit them on their big nights. Perhaps they can persuade you to start up your own special tradition.
