When you think of Toastmasters, what comes to your mind? Perhaps speeches, stage presence, or maybe that nervous flutter before public speaking. But on one unforgettable day, SAIM Toastmasters Club of Division C broke that mold-literally and metaphorically.

The ever-enthusiastic SAIM Toastmasters Club of District 41, Division C and Area C3, organized 'Taekwondo Toastmasters'. This special session was designed to blend the boldness of Taekwondo with the brilliance of Toastmasters. The event brought together two powerful disciplines: the physical strength and discipline of Taekwondo, and the mental confidence and clarity of Toastmasters.

The goal of the event was simple yet impactful: to teach participants the basics of Taekwondo while integrating essential elements of self-defense, flexibility, and the kind of mental presence that both martial arts and public speaking demands. In place of traditional speeches and table topics, participants laced up their shoes for self-defense training, Taekwondo fundamentals and a series of energizing games that left everyone sweating, smiling, and thinking a little deeper.

Taekwondo, often perceived as a sport or a series of choreographed moves, is so much more. It's a philosophy. It's a discipline. At its core, Taekwondo teaches self-control, resilience, confidence, and above all, respect-values that align remarkably with the goals of personal development at Toastmasters.

The event was expertly led by Mr.Tonil Karmacharya, a 7th Dan black belt in Taekwondo who has been giving training for more than 3 decades, along with his dynamic student Nitendra Bajracharya, a 3rd Dan black belt in Taekwondo. The talented duo broke down the complex moves into simple understandable steps. In the starting the duo enlightened participants with the knowledge about the history and origin of Taekwondo. Then moving forward, in first session the participants did some warm up and stretching, learned some basic moves of Taekwondo. In the second session, Mr. Karmacharya proceeded towards teaching various techniques of Self-Defense.

With their expert guidance, participants kicked, stretched, laughed, and learned. SAIM Toastmasters Club was able to blend martial arts with public speaking in a way no one had expected but everyone surely enjoyed.

Toastmaster event is never complete without a dose of laughter-and 'Taekwondo Toastmasters' didn't disappoint. Along with the trainings, there was moments to loosen up the situation: a game session. There was a balloon-popping game where participants tied balloons to their ankles. They tried to burst other's balloon while defending their own. The laughter, shouts and flying feet turned the training floor into a joyful arena of strategy and agility.

The event was also graced by the presence Area Director of Area C, Ankush Adhikari and Division Director Saroj Tamrakar, both of whom had encouraging words and expressed admiration for the innovative and impactful initiative.

The event wasn't just a break from the norm-it was a bold statement: 'Toastmasters is not just a platform for public speaking. It's a place to grow, to connect, and to empower yourself in every arena of life.'

At first glance, martial arts and leadership may seem worlds apart. Many might even question the significance of Taekwondo in Toastmasters-but look closer, and the connection is undeniable. Both are rooted in self-mastery, confidence, and purposeful action.

Taekwondo teaches discipline, focus, and resilience through movement. It strengthens the body, sharpens the mind, and builds confidence to face external challenges.

Toastmasters nurtures self-expression, leadership, and clarity through communication. It empowers individuals to organize their thoughts, speak with intention, and grow in a supportive community.

Both these arts teach us the importance of being present, the power of practice, and the courage to step forward-whether it's on the mat or the stage. Taekwondo and Toastmasters demand respect-for others and for oneself, and both remind us that true strength isn't just about fighting or speaking, but about choosing when and how to act.

Together, they create a powerful blend of inner strength and outer expression-a reminder that we can be both grounded and graceful, bold and balanced.

The event successfully achieved its objective of building a bridge between two powerful worlds and also proved how learning can be engaging, accessible and empowering.

Taekwondo Toastmasters successfully created a space where people from two diverse fields connected, learned, and grew together. It sparked interest among Toastmasters to explore Taekwondo while those from Taekwondo background found themselves intrigued by Toastmasters experience. This fusion of kicks and communication proved to be a win-win for everyone involved.

The event proved, Toastmasters is not about repetition or routine. Each meeting brings a new theme, a new vibe, a new energy. Meeting in Toastmasters is never just 'another meeting.' It's an experience and beyond the speeches and evaluations, there's something even more powerful: connection. Toastmasters becomes a place where friendships are formed, confidence is built, and belonging is found. Toastmasters is not only for aspiring speakers but for anyone who wants to be heard, anyone who wants to grow, and anyone who wants to belong.

In today's fast-paced world, Taekwondo Toastmasters reminded us that sometimes, the best way to recharge is through a perfect combo of movement and motivation, punches and punchlines. Taekwondo Toastmasters was also a reminder that the path to becoming our best selves is rarely linear. Sometimes it involves sweaty socks and sore legs. Other times, it involves standing up and sharing your truth. All it takes is support and a little courage to step out of your comfort zone.

Taekwondo Toastmasters was not just an event- it was a celebration of courage, community and connection.

SAIM Toastmasters Club meets Every Wednesday at SAIM College, Old Baneshwor from 6 pm onwards.