THE Rotary Club of Georgetown yesterday collaborated with Digicel and Soctiabank, among other sponsors, to commence a two-day workshop on Elocution and Public Speaking for Rotaractors, under the theme “Speaking for Success”. It has been observed in recent times that difficulties with elocution, including the proper use of grammar, correct pronunciation and enunciation, and appropriate dress and deportment, have become pervasive in the society; and evidence of this malaise has been observed especially among young professionals. Therefore, according to the President of the Rotary Club of Georgetown, Mr Khalil Alli, the workshop was organized that young professionals might be taught to speak with confidence, and command authority with their words.

While delivering opening remarks at the workshop, held at the Georgetown Club on Camp Street, the Rotary president noted that when this idea was bought up at a meeting, the board felt strongly about making it a reality.

Ms. Marilyne Trotz, the Rotarian responsible for conference services and events management, said the overall objective of the workshop is to give participants a fundamental grasp of effective and efficient communication skills and practices with regard to interpersonal and group communication. She said the workshop was specifically aimed to provide the basic guidelines for social etiquette within group interaction; to refresh participants with regard to accepted norms of English grammar and pronunciation in their various social and professional interactions; and to provide participants with the opportunity for practicing the guidelines referred to above.

The workshops will see facilitators such as Ms. Joyce Sinclair, Management and Training Consultant; Dr. Rovin Deodat, Communications Consultant; and broadcaster and dramatist Ms. Margaret Lawrence, Executive Director of Merundoi Incorporated, among others.

The Rotary Club plans on making this event an annual one. The entire board supports this idea, being convinced that this activity will go a far way in preparing young professionals to be more effective in their work places and in their communities, thereby making the new generation a dynamic one.