rki.news

Doha, May 23, 2026 — The District 116 Toastmasters Annual Conference (DTAC 2026), themed Echoes of Excellence, concluded at Pullman Doha West Bay after two days of inspiring speeches, contests, training sessions, and celebrations. With more than 500 attendees from across Qatar and the wider region, the convention was hailed as a grand success, reaffirming its place as one of the premier communication and leadership events in the Gulf.

A Vibrant Opening
The conference opened on May 22 with registration, networking, and a colorful banner parade that filled the ballroom with energy and pride. DTAC Chair Hamad Al Nesf and Co Chair Pavithra Philip welcomed participants, while District Director Alar Mel Mangai, DTM, delivered the opening address.
The morning featured a keynote by Cyril Anand titled “After the Applause”, setting the tone for reflection and growth. The day continued with the District Evaluation Contest, showcasing analytical skills and constructive feedback.
In the afternoon, laughter filled the hall during the Humorous Speech Contest, followed by a powerful keynote from World Champion of Public Speaking Mark Brown (“Echoes of Excellence”). Delegates then moved into training sessions led by experts such as Periyanayaham, DTM (High Performance Leadership), Mahmoud Reda (Connect to Win), Carolyn Sidgwick (The Transformational Power of Journaling), and Dr. Nerieza Dimalao (Latitude of Mind).
The evening culminated in the Hall of Distinction, where Program Quality, Club Growth, and Public Relations awards were presented, celebrating excellence across the district.

Day Two Highlights

The second day began with the Table Topics Contest, testing quick thinking and creativity. Dr. Aisha Alsheikh inspired the audience with her keynote “Conquering the Mountain Within”, followed by Mohamed Ali Shukri, DTM, AS, with “The Great Chase: A Smarter Path to Significance”.
The District Leadership Awards honored outstanding service, and anticipation built toward the International Speech Contest, the most prestigious event of the conference. The afternoon also featured the installation of district officers for 2026–27, recognition of sponsors, and heartfelt thanks to the organizing committee.
The conference concluded with the Prize Distribution Ceremony across Tamil, Malayalam, and English categories, before District Director Alar Mel Mangai, DTM, formally adjourned DTAC 2026.

Contest Results

International Speech Contest
Nisha Shivram
Roshan Sukheja
Fawad Kasu

District Evaluation Contest

Roshan Sukheja
Abhishek Chattopadhyay
Fawad Kasu

Humorous Speech Contest
Sheeja Anis
Swetha Raghuraman
Sheik Kader

Table Topics Contest
Roshan Sukheja
Pratiksha Diwakar
Ram Mohan Nair

Malayalam Language Contest
Saira Hyder
Midhila Grace
Sajna Jasir

Tamil Language Contest
Manikandan Karuppaiah
Sagaya Mala
Sheik Kader
A Celebration of Excellence

From keynote speeches to contests, training, and recognition, DTAC 2026 embodied the spirit of Echoes of Excellence. Delegates left inspired, motivated, and committed to carrying forward the values of Toastmasters.
The event was not only a platform for competition but also a celebration of fellowship, learning, and achievement. With its seamless organization, diverse agenda, and enthusiastic participation, DTAC 2026 will be remembered as a milestone in District 116’s journey.