Colin Hughes, DTM

Colin Hughes received his award on July 1, 2015. Colin is a member of several clubs but lodged the award with Victoria Quay.

I originally joined Victoria Quay  Toastmasters in 2002 to help me improve my public speaking, as I intended to begin a career in speaking to promote disability awareness. I was 18 years old, have cerebral palsy and I wanted to share my story.

Within 6 months, my Mum told me that Toastmasters has helped my day to day speaking more than going to speech therapy. Instead of spending $60 a week on speech therapy, I was spending $90 for 6 months in Toastmasters and improving exponentially more.

Before I realised it I had completed almost half of the requirements to achieve my DTM. David & Glenis Nicholas, Peter Law & Mark & Robyn Richards inspired me to stretch myself and complete the remaining criteria. With their help, encouragement and at times, an extra shove, I got  there. I found the year as Area Governor the most challenging year but I managed to complete it, thanks to that support.

Today I speak regularly to promote disability awareness and sit on panels for Disability Services.  Now I can present a speech on the spot if required, where it used to take me a week to prepare. Without Toastmasters, I would not be able to do this and will be eternally grateful. If I can can achieve a DTM, anyone can do it. What are you waiting for?

Colin Hughes DTM