📝 Meeting Summary

What an energizing start to 2026! Our first meeting of the year featured a special format – the Club Prepared Speech Contest! The hybrid session brought together members and three wonderful guests to witness four outstanding contestants deliver powerful speeches about risk-taking, leadership, family relationships, and personal growth. The evening showcased not just exceptional English speaking skills, but the authentic stories and personal journeys that make our club so special.

🎉 Opening & Recent Updates

TM S. opened the meeting as Toastmaster of the Evening, welcoming three enthusiastic guests including area director TM N. Members shared their New Year’s holiday experiences with genuine warmth – from snowy adventures in Kanazawa and Yamagata to family gatherings watching the Hakone Ekiden. TM M. shared his unique story of working until the last day of the year followed by alternating between late-night drinking sessions and complete rest days! The energy was immediately welcoming as everyone reflected on their year-end experiences and looked forward to a fresh start.

🗣 Table Topics Session

4th Speaker: TM M.

TM M. brought his characteristic energy and unique perspective to the stage, sharing an engaging speech that captured the audience’s attention from the surprising opening through to its thoughtful conclusion.

🎙 Prepared Speech Session

1st Speaker: “Would You Take?” – TM T.

TM T. transported us to the dangerous streets of Barcelona where she faced a suspicious stranger who tried to offer her drinks. Her gripping narrative had everyone on the edge of their seats as she described the moment she had to decide – would you take that drink? The speech brilliantly balanced courage and caution, delivering a powerful message about life’s calculated risks. Her metaphor comparing life to different types of drinks – some beer, some whiskey – resonated perfectly with the audience. The key takeaway? “Don’t fear the risk, but never be too careless.”

2nd Speaker: “Our Leadership” – TM S.

TM S. shared an honest and inspiring reflection on the club’s 8-year journey, particularly the challenging COVID period when membership dropped to just 7 members. Rather than closing the club, the remaining members chose a different perspective: “The fewer members we have, the more opportunities to speak English we have!” This positive mindset, championed by VP Education TM M., transformed the club’s trajectory. Today, with 14 members and strong momentum, the speech demonstrated that quiet, supportive leadership – creating safe spaces where people feel comfortable trying – can be just as powerful as bold slogans. A truly moving testament to our club’s resilience!

3rd Speaker: “Knock the Door” – TM Y.

TM Y. delivered an emotionally powerful story about reconciliation with his father after more than 10 years of avoidance. The metaphor of the locked door came to life as he described his friend’s simple suggestion at 3 AM: “Why don’t you go have a drink with your father?” That alcohol-fueled moment of courage led to a simple text message and eventually a meaningful meeting at a Portuguese bar in Shibuya. The speech beautifully illustrated how sometimes we need to unlock the doors we’ve kept closed for too long. The sincerity and vulnerability in his delivery made this an unforgettable performance.

4th Speaker: “Power of laughter” TM M.

TM M. brought his characteristic energy and unique perspective to the stage, sharing an engaging speech that captured the audience’s attention from the surprising opening through to its thoughtful conclusion.

🔍 Discussion Session & Feedback

Members and guests provided thoughtful feedback on the contest speeches. TM S. commented on how the speeches were persuasive and story-driven as always. Area Director TM N. praised all contestants, noting that “their preparation and dedication clearly showed.” The discussion session highlighted the supportive atmosphere that makes Visionaries special – everyone felt comfortable sharing honest, constructive observations while celebrating each speaker’s strengths.

🏆 Awards

• Best Table Topics Speaker: TM A.

• Best Prepared Speaker: Split decision between multiple contestants

• Contest Champion & Area Contest Representative: TM T.

  A special congratulations to TM T. who will represent Visionaries Toastmasters Club at the Area Contest on February 22nd!

🚀 Interested?