Talking the talk: South Louisiana gains first Gavel Club for Youth – The Advocate

The Young Voices of Ascension Gavel Club became the first Gavel Club in Toastmasters District 68 when members met in March.

Toastmasters, a nonprofit organization that focuses on developing public speaking and leadership skills, recognized the Ascension Gavel Club as the first of its kind in southern Louisiana.

Mohammad Qayoom, the program quality director of Toastmasters District 68, congratulated club members for their hard work and progress during the March 26 club chartering ceremony held at the Ascension Parish Sheriffs Training Center in Gonzales.

Among the 10 most common fears, public speaking ranks above the fear of committing suicide, Qayoom said, commending club members for overcoming their fear of public speaking.

Skye Taylor, an eighth-grader at Gonzales Middle School, said being in the Ascension Gavel Club has helped her conquer her No. 1 fear: public speaking.

Im very shy, and this helps me get out there and say the things I want to say," Taylor said. "Its really brought me out of my shell."

Michelle Taylor, Skyes mother, said the club program is free, and they are working on building membership.

Members will do peer reviews of each others speeches and progress, said Michelle Taylor. They learn to give constructive criticism, and it also teaches them listening skills.

Im really noticing my daughters improvement, she added.

Nia Comery said that joining the club has jump started her future. She is working on getting an associates degree along with her high school diploma.

U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy acknowledged the program in a letter read during the chartering, and Gonzales Mayor Barney Arceneaux spoke to students encouraging them and designating Sunday as Ascension Gavel Club Date.

State Rep. Tony Bacala also made an appearance, congratulating club members in his speech.

I applaud you guys, not for wanting to learn to speak, said Bacala, but for wanting to learn to be leaders.

I only wish I had this opportunity when I was growing up, said Qayoom, who has volunteered for the program for four years.

You are going to make a difference in your life, the life of your parents, the community and the world, Qayoom told club members in his final remarks.

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Talking the talk: South Louisiana gains first Gavel Club for Youth - The Advocate