Sri Lanka and India the Best Toastmasters

Toastmasters of District 82, comprising Sri Lanka and India were adjudged the Best District by Toastmasters International, USA during the Toastmasters International Convention held in Connecticut, USA, recently.

Officials of the District 82

This is the second consecutive year that District 82 has been recognized as the Best District of Toastmasters International, USA. However, this year's award is especially remarkable considering the fact that it was the first time that the District was steered and guided towards the pinnacle of success by a Sri Lankan, Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) Arunasalam Balraj.

This is indeed a rare honour and a moment of pride not only for Toastmasters but Sri Lanka as a nation.

District 82 was bestowed with the "President's Distinguished District" in recognition of Superior Achievement and Dedicated leadership. This top position was keenly contested by China, Middle East, UK and USA.

On his return from attending the convention in USA, District Governor - District 82, Arunasalam Balraj said "It was the best honour bestowed upon District 82. Success of District 82 could be viewed in two ways. It was the Number 1 District in the World as well as No. 1 in Spirit".

The District also won the President's Extension Award for Outstanding Achievement in club extension and retention.

This comprises the highest number (53) clubs in the world overcoming the earlier number of 51. "It was the largest number of clubs in a single year", said DTM Balraj.

The District was also honoured with the 20+ Award in recognition of keeping clubs alive for successfully motivating clubs to achieve and maintain charter strength. These are awards won in "the most ethical and alive" manner in the true sense of the words. This reflects the emphasis on qualitative aspects, where quality was not compromised to achieve the quantitative goals and objectives.

Toastmasters is a non profit organization, dedicated towards developing communication and leadership skills of individuals. Present in over 120 countries there are over 2000 Toastmasters in Sri Lanka in over 40 clubs.