Empowering the Next Generation

Over the past few months, I was privileged to work with and support several Youth Leadership Programs alongside dedicated Toastmasters who took the lead. This experience reinforced for me that when Toastmasters deliver leadership beyond the club, some of the most meaningful growth opportunities are created.

From the Calgary Hitmen Introduction to Public Speaking program (now in its third year under Christina Kruis, Heart of the Rockies Toastmasters) to the Future Leaders Teen Toastmasters online program through Richmond Hill Public Library, successfully delivered by Olanari Okungbowa (Fluor Communicators TM) and her team of volunteers, the impact is both wide-reaching and deeply personal.

In Calgary, new and growing programs continue to emerge. The Calgary Bridge Foundation for Youth launched its first year under Wendy Ireland (Literally Speaking), while the Navy League of Canada (Calgary) program, led by Masoud Shahanaghi (Fluor Communicators), brought communication skills to youth in a structured leadership environment. The St. John Choir Escola program, coordinated by John Hallet (MVP Advanced Toastmasters), also marked its first year of delivery.

Additionally, for the third consecutive year, District 42 Toastmasters continued to support global-minded youth through initiatives like the Rotary International Youth Exchange Program. The team coordinated by Christina Kruis assisted exchange students in preparing to introduce themselves and their stories abroad. We continue to assist in building confidence through communication, while honing our own presentation, communication and leadership skills.

Across these programs, participants ranged from youth to young adults, with sessions delivered in person, online via Zoom, and in hybrid formats. All this demonstrates the adaptability and relevance of Toastmasters in today’s learning environments.

Develop Leadership by Doing

Participating in a YLP is more than volunteering. It is real, hands-on leadership development. Toastmasters has the opportunity to:

• • Support program planning and delivery
  • Facilitate activities and guide discussions
  • Provide feedback and mentorship
  • Adapt to diverse audiences and formats

Whether you’re leading a session or supporting behind the scenes, each role strengthens your ability to lead with confidence and clarity.

Strengthen Communication Skills in New Ways

Working with youth and young adults challenges Toastmasters to refine how we communicate. Concepts we use regularly must be simplified, demonstrated, and made engaging. It’s a powerful reminder that communication is not just about speaking. It’s about ensuring others, especially the next generation of leaders, feel heard and empowered.

YLPs are inherently collaborative. Toastmasters works alongside fellow members, community partners, and program participants, building meaningful relationships along the way.

Toastmasters Youth Leadership Beyond the Club: Where Growth Meets Community Impact

What stood out to me wasn’t just what the participants gained but what we gained as Toastmasters. You don’t have to be the lead facilitator to benefit from a Youth Leadership Program. Supporting roles matter, and they stretch you in ways that are different from club meetings. Furthermore, they provide an orientation and prepare you for coordinating a YLP team.

You find yourself adapting on the spot, simplifying ideas, encouraging participation, and sometimes just listening more closely than you normally would. It’s leadership in action; practical, immediate, and shared.

Additionally, working with youth and young adults is a reminder that communication isn’t about polished speeches. It’s about connection. We learn to make ideas accessible, meet people where they are, and offer encouragement that builds confidence. In doing so, we become better communicators ourselves.

These programs are never a solo effort. They bring Toastmasters together with community partners and with each other. The shared sense of purpose, supporting growth in others, naturally builds stronger teams and broader networks. At its heart, this experience is about more than public speaking. It’s about helping the next generation find their voice and, in the process, rediscovering our own purpose as leaders.

For those of us in District 42, it’s an opportunity to take everything we value about Toastmasters and bring it into the community in a meaningful way.

Ready to Get Involved?

If you’re looking to strengthen your leadership, grow your network, and make a meaningful impact, consider joining or supporting a Youth Leadership Program in District 42.

Because sometimes, the greatest growth happens when we step just slightly outside our comfort zone and into service.

Marcy Field, DTM
Club Extension Committee Co-Chair