Over the past two years “Revitalized Educational Program” later known as “Pathways” was one of the most anticipated advents in my Toastmasters journey. Being an ardent Toastmaster who loves to take up new challenges especially when it involves opportunities to improve my competencies in effective speaking and leadership skills, and with all the excitement created by the District, I couldn’t wait to embark on this journey.
This new learning experience was a major change in the world of Toastmasters and it required a well executed smooth transition for every member to ensure that all were well equipped with the nuances of the program once it was introduced. Hence Toastmasters International (TMI) introduced the roles of Pathways Guide and Pathways Ambassador as the key players to educate about the program to every single club and its members. When the District sent out the invitation for volunteers to take up the roles of Pathways Guide and Ambassador, with no hesitation I enrolled myself and fortunately I was selected as the Guide for eight clubs in my division.
As the roll out date for the program in the District arrived, I had already completed all my visits and I was certain Pathways was the right tool that you need to make your journey in Toastmasters a memorable and meaningful one. However, it wasn’t until the day I did my first project; the Ice Breaker in Pathways that I realized how invaluable this program is regardless of the experience you possess. As, with Pathways you not only learn the objectives of a speech, but also how to organize, write and deliver presentations with confidence & poise.
I appreciated the fact that the Pathways script writing method will help all those who struggle to put a speech into perspective, as it simply guides you to put your thoughts into paper and eventually a complete speech at the end without even your realization.
The evaluation criteria has been revamped and now it is more focused on where we can improve than merely where we can get compliments from.
The more I progressed through my Path taking one project at a time, the more I realized how close I am getting to where I am guaranteed to be with the Path I chose, which is “Leadership Development”.
I sincerely believe for anyone who still struggles to choose what to do next, go ahead and take the assessment and start your journey, I am certain you will receive what you seek.
Pathways sets you on your journey of personal and professional development. It offers many different avenues for you to explore and achieve. Pathways is indeed a journey of possibilities…!
DTM Muhammed Sheikh Ahmed
Pathways Guide
