After preparing and competing for the speech contest for the past 3 months, I’ve received the notice from above that it’s time I deserve a rest. Today I was competing in the Division contest. My competitors are heavy weights from over 30 clubs including those from Ipoh and Batu Gajah!

I did not manage to win the Challenge trophy, but I’ve gained a lot of experience along the way. In the club contest, I fought against 3 senior TM members and only came in 2nd. But 2 weeks before the contest, the Club Champion-cum-Club President, WHYap was sick and hospitalized, and hence I took his place and won the Area Contest on his behalf.

Nesohu performing in Area Contest

After winning the Area Contest, a group of people approached me to give me enormous encouragement and support. Thanks to the effort of my mentors – (DTM) Shankar, (ACB) Noorida, (CC) Sabri, and (CC) Muthu. For the past week, I’ve been training hard with the help of (2B) IreneT and my fellow mentors.

I have sleepless nights as the speech is racing in my mind. On the contest day, the other contestants are mostly twice my age. I almost turn cold feet and throw in the towel. Yet after drinking gulps of warm water, I managed to get up to the stage and present my topic perfectly. Before I arrive at my seat, I received handshakes, and congratulatory SMS from “Past District 51 Governor”-cum-“My x-big boss”.

Before the results are announced, the Tally Counter gave me a sad face and shake his head. I started to feel sorry and I was thinking, “Man, I’m going to disappoint these people…” I turn my head down and pray hard, “God, if I can’t get 1st, please…give me a placing at least!” And then I heard my name being called! Yay~ I got THIRD!!!

This is really a milestone for me because firstly – it’s my 1st time competing, and secondly, most of my competitors are seasoned (and professional) speakers. After receiving the award, I tell myself, “I’ll be back!” This will not be the end of my Toastmasters journey. I’ll continue to come back and fought for the champion’s cup.


Photo with the winners


Irene who helped me all the way