July 9, 2025

On Wednesday, we hosted an inspiring workshop centered on the theme of Storytelling. Led by past District Director Raji Bandanapudi, the session offered participants a practical and empowering approach to speechwriting. Raji walked us through an efficient and structured process for crafting compelling speeches – reminding us that great storytelling isn’t just about creativity, but also about clarity, purpose, and connection.

Raji outlined the workshop’s goals, emphasizing the importance of structure in speechwriting. She introduced a six-step process that participants could use to develop a speech in just five minutes. This approach was designed to help attendees create impactful messages that resonate with their audience.

1. Choose a Topic
2. Define the Purpose
3. Structure the Speech
4. Develop the Middle Section
5. Include a Personal Reflection
6. Conclude with a Call to Action

Participants were guided through an interactive exercise where they began drafting their speeches. Raji encouraged everyone to think about their personal experiences and significant events that could serve as topics. The workshop emphasized the importance of purpose, structure, and storytelling in crafting a memorable speech.

Raji elaborated on the three main sections of a speech: the beginning, middle, and end. She highlighted the need to establish a clear purpose, provide context, and deliver a compelling conclusion with a call to action. The session also included tips on how to incorporate storytelling elements to engage the audience effectively.

Attendees had the opportunity to share their drafted speeches, receiving constructive feedback from peers. As the workshop concluded, participants reflected on their learning experiences. Many expressed newfound confidence in their ability to write and deliver speeches. The emphasis on personal stories and relatable content resonated deeply with the group, reinforcing the idea that everyone has a unique voice worth sharing.

See you at our next meeting!