Thomas Thottukadavil
New Jersey: “Interpersonal Communication,” a training program offered by Toastmasters International, was hosted by Saint Joseph’s Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Tampa, Florida, from July 28 to August 2, 2025. Fr. Jimmy James, the pastor of the church, encouraged the community to enroll their high school students in the program and opened the church facilities for the youth. Ms. Eslyn Leon (VP of Education at Brandon Toastmasters) conducted the training for 16 high school students. The program was inaugurated by Hon. Dr. Aney Paul (Rockland County Legislator), the first Malayalee woman elected to public office in New York. Rev. Fr. Jimmy James also spoke, stressing the importance of communication skills throughout one’s career.
This program extended Toastmasters’ Youth Leadership Training by identifying each participant’s Interpersonal Communication Style, imparting the art of active listening and effective responses, managing emotions during social interactions, and handling difficult situations in various social settings. Communication becomes meaningful when the listener empathizes with the speaker and when both can respectfully exchange their thoughts.
The participants were also taught how to engage in debates and make them successful by focusing on the topic or issue being discussed. While it is necessary to point out flaws in arguments, the intention should never be to disparage another participant. During a spirited debate on the final day, the participants demonstrated that they could effectively debate general topics by presenting strong arguments, acknowledging credible points from the opposing team, and identifying weaknesses in their own arguments.
Another highlight of the program was a presentation by Derek Lott (Distinguished Toastmaster, Brandon, FL) of his winning speech at the regional competition — one of 28 selected from 45,000 participants — which qualified him for the semi-final of the World Champion of Public Speaking Competition by Toastmasters International. All participants provided feedback, identified areas for improvement, and suggested refinements to enhance their chances of winning the World Championship.
Throughout the training, participants assumed various roles, demonstrating their ability to take responsibility, lead teams, and contribute constructively to group activities. They learned to confidently address an audience, modulate their voices, and bring their personalities into their speeches. They also developed the ability to understand speakers by considering background, body language, tone, and expressions.
This training was coordinated by Mr. Thomas and Mrs. Maria Thottukadavil, who once again proved their ability to organize successful leadership programs for youth. Other contributors included Mr. Raul Marin (Brandon Toastmasters), Sr. Dr. Philo Jose, Dr. Babu Joseph, and Dr. Babu Mani. The entire team, led by Ms. Eslyn Leon, evaluated participants’ progress, provided constructive feedback, and introduced essential skills for successful interpersonal communication.
Congratulations to all 16 participants, soon to enter adulthood and armed with skills they can use every day — in their remaining school years, higher education, and future professions!
