Crescendo 125: A Grand Symphony of Voices, Vision & Leadership

Pune, May 17–18, 2025 — When purpose meets passion, magic unfolds—and that’s exactly what happened at Crescendo 125, the much-anticipated District 125 Annual Conference of Toastmasters International. Held at the prestigious Symbiosis Ishanya Auditorium, Pune, this two-day celebration brought together the best of communication, leadership, and inspiration.

From the moment the flag march opened the event to the final applause echoing through the auditorium, Crescendo 125 was not just an event—it was a movement. It celebrated the power of the spoken word, the essence of leadership, and the strength of community.

Day 1: Wit, Wisdom & Wonder

The opening ceremony featured motivational addresses by the district’s top leaders:

• Milind Patwardhan, DTM – District Director
• Sushil Pawar ,DTM – Program Quality Director
• Uday Jagavkar ,DTM – Club Growth Director

A powerful Fireside Chat with Sujit Sukumaran,DTM , International Director (Region 8), set the tone with insights on growth beyond comfort zones.

The stage then lit up with the Humorous Speech Contest, filling the hall with laughter, creativity, and impeccable timing.

Post-lunch highlights included a Book Launch, cultural entertainment, and a deeply moving keynote by renowned storyteller Usha Venkataraman, who reminded us that stories shape leaders. The Evaluation Speech Contest followed, where Toastmasters showcased their ability to analyze, inspire, and uplift.

Day 2: Momentum, Mastery & Meaning

Day 2 began with a captivating orchestral performance, setting the rhythm for a day of inspiration.

Savinder Puri delivered a thought-provoking keynote on “Beyond Fear: AI as Your Growth Partner”, sparking meaningful conversations on the future of leadership and technology.

The Table Topics Contest tested quick wit and spontaneity, while Dr. Lloyd D’Souza’s session “Save Lives” delivered life-saving CPR knowledge—proving that communication can indeed be a matter of life and death.

The grand finale, the International Speech Contest, left the audience inspired by powerful stories, eloquent delivery, and deeply human emotions. The winners of the International Speech Contest will now represent District 125 at the next level of the World Championship of Public Speaking of Toastmasters International.

More Than a Conference—A Community Legacy

The event closed with heartfelt gratitude and celebration, led by

Convenor TM Preeti Thorat, and Co-Convenors TM Archana Pande and TM Padmaj Nikam, whose vision, coordination, and leadership were instrumental in making Crescendo 125 a resounding success.

Crescendo 125 wasn’t just a stage for speeches—it was a platform where every voice mattered, every story found meaning, and every leader discovered their next chapter.

With over 500+ participants, electrifying contests, world-class keynotes, and an atmosphere filled with learning and joy—Crescendo 125 proved that the future doesn’t just speak here… it speaks loud, proud, and together.

If you wish to be a part of this wonderful community just reach out to one of these officers and they will happily assist you-

Rohan More -7447769277; Swathi-9764392186; Biman Gandhi- 9822666355; Padmaj Nikam-9975162098