From left: DTM Sudash Liyanage, Rajeeva Bandaranaike, DTM Balraj Arunasalam, DTM Ganga Fernando, DTM Niroshan Nadarajah, DTM Bhathiya Hettiarchchi and TM Ashen Hirantha

District 82 of Toastmasters International, in collaboration with the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) recently rang the bell in honour of Toastmasters International’s 100-year legacy.

Since its founding in 1924, Toastmasters has empowered thousands of individuals worldwide to develop their communication and leadership skills through its voluntary, member-driven programmes.

The ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, including District 82DTM District Director Ganga Fernando, Past International President DTM Balraj Arunasalam, District 82DTM Programme Quality Director Niroshan Nadarajah, District 82DTM Club Growth Director Bhathiya Hettiarchchi, Region 13 Past Regional Advisor DTM Sudash Liyanage, CSE CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike, CSE Toastmasters Club President TM Ashen Hirantha, many past and present district officials of District 82 and officers from the CSE.

Opening the ceremony, Bandaranaike expressed, “At first glance, Toastmasters may appear to be a movement focused on enhancing public speaking and communication skills. However, it transcends that by cultivating leadership, self-confidence and personal growth, empowering members with a distinct competitive advantage in their professional lives.”

Reflecting on the significance of the event, Fernando remarked, “The bell we ring today symbolises Toastmasters’ profound global impact in empowering individuals as better communicators and leaders—a journey of self-discovery and authenticity. What started in 1924 as a humble community initiative by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley has evolved into a global movement, now spanning 150 countries with over 15,000 clubs. From its modest beginnings as a social gathering, it has grown into a life-changing organisation that instils the core values of integrity, respect, service and excellence, helping millions worldwide find their voices.”