Installation Dinner Speech

Date: 2 August 2008 (Sat)
Time: 7.00 pm
Venue: Royale Bintang, The Curve


Good evening ladies and gentlemen.

On behalf of the committee, I would like to record thanks to the organizing chair, Lee Wei Seong, for his gallant effort tonight. It is probably the first event in the last year that he has organized. Without my help. Also, thanks to his carefully chosen organizing committee, specially invited guests, representatives from other respected Toastmasters Clubs, and most of all, to D’Utama Advanced Toastmasters for gracing this event with your presence.

I received an SMS this morning from a fellow member who missed the last meeting and is not present this evening. It read, “Have fun at installation dinner tonight. The work begins tomorrow. Hahaha.” I sent out this reply, “Hahaha, the work began a month ago actually.”

The executive committee is privileged to be selected to run this term. Thank you for the honour and confidence in us to take you through your TM journey in 2008 / 2009. We are here to meet your goals and needs, to be competitive, and to be in the company of other like-minded Toastmasters.

Ladies & Gentlemen,

I personally had a wonderful term as VPE last year with many fond memories I’d like to share. But I am not here to talk about the past. Let’s talk about the future.

I foresee a bumpy road. And I am sure as we move along on this journey, there will be butterflies in the stomach. Yet, the anxieties, many as they come, will make our journey towards becoming better and greater communicators one worth travelling.

Collectively, the EXCO, we want very much to be able to be there, to provide you the platform, the support, the encouragement, the mentorship. It is a privilege for us to be there for you. Indeed, our job is to create the opportunity for you to meet your goals every step of the way.

I learned in the last term not to have lofty goals. So this year, I am going to say - it’s not about being President’s Distinguished Club or champion of the world. We do not promise you great things. But we are determinedly realistic about our desire to help you take one step forward from last term towards achieving your goal. And hopefully, along the way, we do become President’s Distinguished and champion of the world. As my boss always tells me, “It’s not the winning that matters. It’s the process of getting there that makes a difference.” We want to see you "Be The Change", which coincidentally is the club's theme for the year.

Division B Governor, DTM Zaharah Ibrahim said earlier in her address that she once visited a DU Advanced meeting, but she didn't have the courage to join the club. I tell you honestly, Zaharah, "I'm glad I did!"

Thank you and good night.


Best regards,

Deborah Hoe, CTM
President 2008/2009