By Lucy Brooks, President of Sussex Online Speakers, 2022-2023.
You are invited to a virtual ball on 26 June 2023 at 7:00 pm, doors open 6:30. Register in advance here.
I am completing a year as the President of Sussex Online Speakers - one of Toastmasters International’s thriving online clubs.
Since the club started in January 2021, we have seen the club grow (and shrink at times). We have laughed together, we have grown together, we have progressed together. And best of all, we have become a firm community of international friends. Our circle has included members from Africa, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Poland, Ireland, and of course the UK.
English as a second language
The club has its roots in Sussex – hence our name – but our branches reach throughout the world. We have welcomed visitors from Australia and New Zealand, Nepal, India, and many other countries. Every guest is given a very warm welcome and many of them join the club. Speaking English as a second language is a major goal for many of our members, and our club is the perfect place to practice.
Why do they join? To feel part of an international community, to learn, to grow, and to thrive. To learn public speaking and leadership skills in a perfect and friendly environment.
On June 30th I hand over the President role to Amy Jones. Amy and I founded this club and could not be prouder of our successes. We have achieved the accolade of President’s Distinguished Club in both years since our founding. (Basically, that means we achieved all our goals each year).
But before I hand the presidency over to Amy, I invite readers of this blog to attend a virtual President’s ball on 26th June 2023 at 7:00 pm. Doors open at 6:30. The meeting will be almost as normal, but there will be a celebratory table topics theme, with many opportunities to join in. Dress code: add some bling to your outfit!