'I can mix and mingle with the best:' Limerick Toastmaster earns national recognition

LIMERICK Toastmasters member Adam Cronin has made his mark on the national stage, securing an impressive second place in the Division D final of the Toastmasters Evaluation Contest.

Division D stretches from Wicklow to Kilrush taking in Waterford, Wexford, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Limerick and Clare.

Adam progressed through two qualifying rounds to reach the national final held at the Anner Hotel in Thurles on Sunday, April 13, including a standout victory at the Area Evaluation Contest in Roscrea.

At the Division level contest, he faced exceptional competition from top evaluators across Ireland.

Reflecting on his experience, Adam said: “The reason I put myself out there was to see how I measure up as an evaluator at both the area and national level. What I felt afterwards is that I can mix and mingle with the best.

READ MORE: Top educators and artists meet in Limerick for annual 'highlight' of teaching calendar

“At the same time, practice really does make perfect. This was my first-ever experience in a competition, and now that I know how to succeed, I’m eager for more.”

In a Toastmasters evaluation contest, participants listen to a test speech and then present a structured evaluation, highlighting strengths and offering constructive feedback. These contests showcase analytical and communication skills while offering valuable learning opportunities for participants and audience members alike.

Evaluation is at the heart of the Toastmasters experience. It fosters a supportive environment where members grow as speakers and leaders, helping one another refine their skills through thoughtful and actionable feedback.

Adam has been a member of Limerick Toastmasters since 2023 and regularly attends the club’s twice-monthly meetings at the Limerick Strand Hotel.

The club meets on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month from September to June, with meetings beginning at 8pm. Meetings are held in the John B Keane Library Room on the ground floor of the Limerick Strand Hotel. Guests are always welcome, and no booking is required. Your first visit is completely free.

Limerick Toastmasters supports members in building self-confidence and developing the communication skills needed for success in interviews, meetings, presentations, negotiations, and social events such as wedding speeches.