Royal Bermuda Yacht Club.

More than 20 members and guests attended the event where Carol Bassett assumed her role as the new president, succeeding outgoing president Susan Thompson.

Selena Lambert was instrumental in the growth of Toastmasters in Bermuda after its initial years of activity at the former US Naval Air Station in St.

David's.

She has also served as club president for fours year. For the coming year, other officers include vice president of education Latanya Richardson, vice president of public relations delMonte Davis, secretary Rohan Seneviratne, sergeant at arms Devon DeShields and treasurer Dr. Barry Whalley.

Beginning again in September, the club will highlight its programmes and services to Bermuda companies.

The club meets on the first and third Tuesdays of the month. Businesses around the world of every size and sophistication encourage select members of their staff to take advantage of the benefits of membership in Toastmasters.

Men and women can learn the art of speaking, listening and thinking -- vital skills that promote self-actualisation, enhance leadership potential, foster human understanding, and contribute to the betterment of mankind.

*** The Centre on Philanthropy and Alastair Grant will be holding a workshop on "Presentation Skills for Charity'' tomorrow evening.

Mr. Grant has had many years experience as a business consultant/trainer in Great Britain and Bermuda.

His company, Grant Pearson Brown and Co. believes "giving is good business'' and has partnered with the communities they serve through volunteer training for charities in England.

This includes the National Trust, MENCAP and The Putney Hospital and Home for Incurables, and Bermuda -- including the Council Partners Charitable Trust and respective agencies, and the 60 organisations participating in the Centre's workshops.

Mr. Grant believes communication is a key programme element in running a voluntary organisation.

Charity leaders must communicate to their fellow trustees, other volunteers, and donors, as well as to the charities' beneficiaries and users, policymakers, and the community at large. Clear communication most often includes the ability to speak well.

The evening workshop will cover the following: How to make the message come across clearly; How to make your personality come through; Hints on timing, eye contact, use of silence; Ideas on structure of your presentation; How to be creative; Visual aids and pitfalls to avoid; and Handling questions.

NEW ROLES -- The Toastmaster Club of Bermuda held its annual awards dinner recently where three members took on different roles. Ms Carol Bassett (left) assumed her role as the new president, succeeding outgoing president Susan Thompson (centre). Ms Selena Lambert (right) has been instrumental in the growth of Toastmasters in Bermuda and is also past president.