On 16 June 2008, I accepted the invitation by Sienna Lazaro to be the installing officer for the new Executive Committee of Nee Soon South Toastmasters Club.
This is my first experience as the installing officer. Excited as I was, I pored through the Area Leadership Handbook for guidance on how to conduct the installation ceremony.
From my memories, the installation ceremony is a solemn ceremony. Before that, I discharged the current exco of their duties. They had done well to lead Nee Soon South Toastmasters Club to achieve President’s Distinguished Club status.
Then, I installed the new exco officers one by one. I followed the script word-for-word. To me, it was “painfully” boring. Then, I called upon all members to take their pledge to stand by the new exco. There were few members present. Most of them are guests and visitors. I was thankful that the ceremony was completed without any hiccups!
Charanjit, the new President, saved the night with his inaugural speech. He quoted Mahatma Gandhi, “The true beauty of a country lies in the warmth of the people.” Charanjit said, “The true beauty of a Club lies in the warmth and love of the members.”
True to his words, members of Nee Soon South Toastmasters Club exude warmth and two of the visitors commented that they were so comfortable that they would sign up as members.
Thank you, Nee Soon South Toastmasters Club, for giving me this opportunity to share this moment with you, to install the new exco and to work closely with you throughout the year to reach greater heights! I’m confident that under Charanjit’s leadership, Nee Soon South Toastmasters Club will once again achieve President’s Distinguished Club for the term 2008/2009.
