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Celebrating the Gold in Toastmasters A thank you to hundreds of volunteers At the 2026 District 42 Conference, there was both celebration and a sense of sadness that 72 years of achievements, comradeship and joy were coming to an end. For me, it was bittersweet. Circle of Gold began in one club in 2003 and has grown into a district-wide phenomenon, helping participants become better speakers, evaluators, and leaders. On the last night of the 2026 Conference, I stood …
Toastmasters Demo Meetings Build Community On Tuesday, April 14, something meaningful took place at Tsuut’ina Nation. Toastmasters District 42 partnered with the Rotary Club of Calgary Heritage Park to host a demo meeting, with a simple goal: introduce communication and leadership development to a new community. However, what stood out wasn’t just the meeting—it was the teamwork behind it. Members from Fluor Communicators, Heart of the Rockies Toastmasters, MVP Advanced Toastmasters and Rise and Speak Toastmasters came together, each bringing …
Three Little Letters, One Incredible Journey Three Little Letters That Once Felt Out of Reach When I first joined Toastmasters on October 1, 2011, I kept hearing about three little letters: DTM. It didn’t take long to learn that those three little letters held great meaning: Distinguished Toastmaster. At first, I didn’t believe that was something I could achieve. I had suffered a traumatic brain injury that blew up my life. I was off work on long-term disability and floundering.I …
May 2026 Message Dear District 42 Members, As we step into May, we enter one of the most critical and exciting months of our Toastmasters year. The District mission is to build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence. With only two months remaining in this program year, our focus is on finishing strong and ensuring every club has the resources needed to succeed. Supporting Our Clubs to Reach the Finish Line Our primary goal is to support …
You Did It. We See It. There is something special about going above and beyond.Not because someone asked you to. Not because it was required. But because you chose to — to help, to lead, to make a difference. And I want you to know this: We see it. In District 42, one of the most meaningful ways we recognize that spirit is through the District Citation Award, one of the highest honours in our District. This award celebrates members …
Speechcraft Magic How Current Speakers Turned a Struggling Club Around From Almost Suspended to Almost Distinguished Speechcraft — I’d almost call it witchcraft, because it worked so much magic in our club. Current Speakers is a noon club based out of ENMAX Place in Calgary. We are now only four members and three Level 1s away from being Distinguished! This time last year, Current Speakers was almost suspended. We have come a loooong way, and Speechcraft has helped put us …
Finding My Voice on the Yellow Brick Road Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone Last year, I made a decision that pushed me far outside my comfort zone: I entered the 2026 International Speech Contest. My goal wasn’t just to compete; it was to challenge myself and grow as a speaker. Finding Inspiration in an Unexpected Place The first step was finding a topic that would truly resonate with an audience. That clarity came unexpectedly in December 2025, when I attended …
A Conference to Remember District 42 Stepped Into Forever There are rooms you enter without knowing that you are experiencing them for the last time. That was the recently concluded D42 Conference. There was a weight in the air that words alone struggled to carry. There was excitement and celebration, but there was also something more layered and human. It was the quiet awareness that this was our last conference as District 42. The subtle, almost unspoken realization that some …
From Nervous Newbie to Distinguished Toastmaster My Toastmasters Journey When I walked into my first meeting at ATB in April 2017, I wasn’t nervous about speaking in public. That was the easy part. It was the intimidation of meeting new people. Making friends at 54 is hard work! The Beginning: I had recently been laid off by my previous employer, having to look for a new job after almost 40 years of work. With blessings, I started with ATB Financial …
More Than a Destination A Toastmasters journey of service, learning, leadership, and lifelong connections Where the Journey Began A trip is not about a destination but about the journey. I began my journey in my childhood home. My mother and father gave a helping hand to others and volunteered in several organizations. This was the first stop along the way. The First Toastmasters Stop Cathy Morrell invited me to my first Toastmasters meeting. Cathy and I became charter members for …
From Praise to Performance Evaluation Laboratory The Scientist Evaluation Laboratory proved to be an engaging and impactful experience, bringing together more than 40 enthusiastic participants eager to strengthen their evaluation skills. The energy in the room was filled with curiosity and collaboration, as attendees stepped into the role of “scientists,” carefully observing, analyzing, and articulating feedback with greater precision. Throughout the session, participants explored five key elements of effective evaluations through the lens of the Pathways criteria: Clarity, Audience Awareness, …
District 42 Citation Award A Grateful Heart and a Very Surprising Moment I am still feeling honoured, grateful, and a little shocked after receiving the District 42 Citation Award at the District 42 Toastmasters Conference. The District Citation Award recognizes members who have made outstanding contributions that further the Toastmasters spirit and ideals. Recipients are selected through a nomination process by the Past District Directors Committee and have their name placed on the District Citation Banner. This award humbles me …
Club Growth Summit Summary On February 14, District 42 hosted a dynamic Club Growth Summit centred on the mission of Toastmasters International: to build new clubs and support all clubs in achieving excellence. The event reinforced a simple but powerful truth — growth begins and ends with members. The summit opened with a reminder that members are the engine of the organization. They run meetings, progress through Pathways, serve as club and district leaders, and step forward as sponsors, mentors, …
Brand Confidence Starts with Compliance PR Pulse Peer2Peer – 7 February On 7 February, District 42 VP PRs gathered for a practical and engaging Peer2Peer session on Toastmasters Brand Compliance, led by Vesna Ivkovic, DTM. The session delivered clarity, confidence, and actionable steps for every club communicator. Key Highlights Vesna guided participants through the official Toastmasters International Brand Portal, reinforcing essential principles: Clubs may not create or alter logos Official logos must follow proper placement and spacing rules Approved brand …
Say Yes Before You Feel Ready A few years ago, I said yes to becoming an Area Director.At the time, I only knew a handful of Toastmasters outside my own club. I remember wondering, Who am I to support multiple clubs? What do I really know? Here’s what happened. When Your World Expands Overnight My network exploded.Suddenly, I was surrounded by Toastmasters who didn’t just have years of experience. They had decades. Leaders who had built clubs from scratch. Mentors who …
Building Tomorrow’s Leaders Today Why Your Time Matters Across our district, dedicated volunteers from Toastmasters International are making a lasting impact—one young voice at a time. Through the Youth Leadership Program (YLP), members of Toastmasters District 42 are helping students discover confidence, communication skills, and develop strong leadership skills. The Youth Leadership Program in Action Recently, a group of Grade 9 students completed a six-week YLP. With the guidance of committed Toastmasters facilitators, they learned how to organize their thoughts, …
Seventeen Years In, Still Learning Where It All Began My Journey started many years ago. I was one of the founding members of The Estevan Toastmaster club on June 1, 2003. It was a great experience. I met many people who have remained good friends through the years. Brad Korbo was one of the sponsors of the Estevan club, and our paths have crossed continuously through the years. Marg Ustupski was a fellow member, and she and I have remained …
February 2026 Update As we get into the deepest chill of winter, I am warmed by the wonderful community of our District 42. It was great to see many of you in person at District mid year training thsi month and to connect while learning about how to be a better leader and communicator. I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for your continued dedication and enthusiasm in making our district a thriving community of communicators and …
Calgary Hitmen: Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders One Play at a Time What happens when Toastmasters step beyond the meeting room and into the community? Confidence grows, connections deepen, and leadership comes alive in powerful ways. Recently, District 42 Toastmasters YLP Facilitators: Marshall Ennis, Russ Dantu, Matthew Fox, Marcy Field, Geetha N, Irma Goosen, and Christina Kruis had the opportunity for a night at a Calgary Hitmen hockey game. It was a heartfelt gesture of gratitude for the time, energy, and passion these …
What Members are Saying Insights, Challenges & Opportunities As Pathways continues to evolve, members across the district have shared valuable feedback about their experiences—what’s working, what’s challenging, and where support is still needed. Recent discussions led by the Distinguished Toastmasters Mona Cooley and Bev Leblanc have highlighted a wide range of perspectives from new members, seasoned Toastmasters, and club leaders. Growing Pains and Progress Many long‑time members recalled the early days of Pathways, noting that the original platform made change …
Sustainable or Not Sustainable Set Your 2026 New Year Tone Right 2026 is here. New year. Same you. Same habits returning like laundry… it is never “done,” it is just “paused.” Real fact: big resolutions often crash because we overestimate willpower and underestimate systems. So, if someone followed your week, would they call your life sustainable? On Tuesday, Jan 13, Green Horizons Toastmasters is hosting a meeting that helps you reset without guilt, without perfection, and without pretending. Just clarity, …
My DTM Voyage Seven Seas, One Compass Every Toastmasters journey begins with a single step to the lectern, but a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) journey feels more like setting sail. As I reflect on mine, the image that keeps returning to me is the 1958 blockbuster, The Seven Voyages of Sinbad. Not the version where the hero is fearless and flawless, but the one where each voyage tests resolve, character, leadership, and belief. Each sea is different. Each storm teaches something …
The Future Speaks Here What began on the 5th of November as hesitant introductions blossomed into a celebration of confidence, courage, and transformation. Our Youth Leadership Program graduation and storytelling contest was a resounding success – filled with proud smiles, unexpected twists, and teens stepping boldly into their voices. Each participant began with the same opening phrase: “If you told me this morning what would happen, I would’ve laughed.” Although the planned props were forgotten in the excitement of the …
November PR Pulse Recap ‘’The Stop Scrolling Secret’’ Masterclass in Attention Science Our November PR Pulse session was a deep dive into the elusive “Stop Scrolling Secret,” and it delivered pure gold! A massive thank you to our expert facilitator, Paola Perina (District 109), a true communication professional who seamlessly blended psychology, business strategy, and real-world Public Relations to show us how to get noticed in the digital noise. Paola unlocked the secret behind the “Stop Scrolling” phenomenon, guiding participants …
A Big Month! What a BIG month for YLP in D42! We had a wonderful training for potential facilitators on November 1. That recording is on the D42 website (under Programs, Youth Leadership Program, Resources, Youth Leadership Training Videos). We had 5 leaders sharing knowledge! It’s the November 2025 video, and it’s great! We just wrapped up an in-person program at the Calgary Bridge Foundation, with Carolyn Kaldy and her team of 9 experienced Toastmasters! Hopefully, we’ll hear more from …
Lights, Camera, Connection! D42 VP PRs Master the Art of Video Creation The October PR Pulse: Peer2Peer session sparked creativity across District 42! Our very own Kelly Cheung, VPPR of Healthy Living Toastmasters Club, led “Videos That Connect” – a practical, hands-on session on using Canva to create brand-aligned, eye-catching videos that attract guests and boost club visibility. Kelly showed participants how to transform simple ideas into scroll-stopping video content – even for beginners! From animated posts to short club …
Together We Achieve Club Success Plans YOU are wonderful! Your direct efforts in submitting the Club Succes Plan before the September 30th deadline will make a difference for our District this year! I want to personally thank every club member, club officer, Club Coaches and Mentors, Area Director, Division Director, and the District leadership for your patience and contributions to the Club Success Plan submissions this year! I am pleased to inform our District 42 members, that 102 out of …
District Director’s Message District 42: Moving Forward After Renewals As we passed the October renewal deadline, I want to take a moment to thank each member, club officer, and leader who worked tirelessly to support their clubs. Renewals are more than just numbers—they represent the heartbeat of our organization: people choosing to continue growing, learning, and connecting through Toastmasters. While some clubs celebrated full renewals, others faced challenges. That’s okay—every club has its own rhythm and season. The important thing …
Thrilled to Kick Off the First D42 Synergy Hub Session What happens when passionate people come together to learn, grow, and embrace technology? You get an engaging, insightful session just like our very first D42 Synergy Hub event. As a member of the Synergy Hub team, I had the privilege of working behind the scenes to help bring this event to life. After weeks of planning and preparation, it was incredibly rewarding to see it all come together. But what …
Celebrating 72 Years of District 42 From Vision to Legacy Next year, District 42 proudly celebrates 72 incredible years of leadership, learning, and legacy! Our annual conference theme, “Celebrating 72 Years of D42 – From Vision to Legacy,” honors the remarkable journey that began with a bold, single vision and has evolved into a thriving legacy of excellence and a community of communicators and leaders. Our 2026 District Conference will celebrate the visionaries who built the foundation of District 42 …
Power Plays and Public Speaking Toastmasters Teams Up with the Calgary Hitmen When you think of the Calgary Hitmen, you might picture fast-paced hockey, roaring fans, and the determination it takes to win on the ice. But this season, another kind of growth was happening behind the scenes — one that focused not on goals and assists, but on communication, confidence, and leadership. Through a partnership between District 42 Toastmasters and the Calgary Hitmen, players participated in a Toastmasters Youth …
New Club Building CEC Action Items The other half of our district mission is building new clubs. If you know of a community or organization that meets regularly – even informally through WhatsApp or social gatherings – they could be a candidate for a new Toastmasters club! Recent leads include: A non-profit organization promoting Mexican culture and heritage A group of health and safety professionals Members of the Legacy community in Calgary We have conducted a market analysis and will be making calls to connect with …
District 42 Toastmasters October 2025 Update & Momentum Rising, Reaching, and Reconnecting in District 42 Hello District 42!Can you believe it’s already October? Four months into the Toastmasters year—how is your club doing? How are you feeling? Now that summer is behind us, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get back to business. District Leadership Update In September, the district trio has been busy setting District 42 up for success by creating the district success plan, district budget, marketing …
Rising Together Lessons and Inspiration from the Toastmasters International Convention 2024 A Journey of Growth Beyond the Rainstorm When I was down in Philadelphia, it was the first time I travelled that far without my family. It started off with a hard rain storm that delayed the flight by 3 hrs. I got in at midnight and only got a few hours of sleep, only to wake up and not get to rest for the next week. It really was …
District Trio at International Convention On August 15 and 16, the District Trio travelled to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to attend the District Leader Training. This annual event brings together district leaders from across the globe for intensive sessions led by Region Advisor teams. We were especially proud to see our own Chuck Leblanc serving as one of the Region Advisors, contributing his expertise to the training. Leadership Training in Philadelphia The days were packed, starting at 7:00 AM and running through …
The PR Pulse Is Beating Strong in District 42! District 42 PRs Rise Together – July Highlights July 19 marked the kick-off of our very first PR Pulse: Peer2Peer Meetup of the year – and wow, did we set the tone! Over 20 VP PRs from across District 42 came together and turned an ordinary Zoom room into a powerhouse of creativity. This wasn’t just another call. It was a buzzing hub of ideas and energy filled with: Branding gems …
From the Firehall to the Front of the Room How Toastmasters Keeps Me Growing in Retirement When I retired as a Captain from the Calgary Fire Department in 2009, I thought I knew what “busy” meant. After all, I’d spent 28 years responding to emergencies, leading crews, and making split-second decisions that sometimes meant the difference between life and death. On top of that, I served as the President of the Calgary Fire Department’s Cappy Smart Concert Band for 20 …
Voice, Vision & Visibility The PR Advantage for Leaders As leaders, everything we say and do sends out ripples – through our clubs, our communities, and even across the District. This is where Voice, Vision, and Visibility come in. Your Voice is what you stand for. Your Vision is where you’re leading. Your Visibility is how others experience it. When you align all three, you don’t just lead – you inspire, attract, and amplify. In leadership, your ability to inspire …
Why Every Accounting Professional Should Join Toastmasters After more than 30 years as an expense analyst, one lesson stands out clearly: numbers alone don’t drive decisions—clarity, confidence, and connection do. For years, every month, I stood before senior leaders to present financial reports, projections, and performance summaries. Many of these dedicated leaders didn’t come from accounting backgrounds, yet they were tasked with making mission-critical decisions based on the data I provided. If my message wasn’t clear, engaging, and impactful, it …
A Strong Start The Youth Leadership Program is up and running in District 42; the momentum is strong! Highlights from Last Year Last year saw a successful facilitator training program, 2 in-person programs, 1 hybrid program, and 2 online programs! Some programs were run by experienced facilitators who had done the program before, and others were run by facilitators doing this for the first time. I have training videos, files of program planning, and agendas to share. We can meet …
Speaker List and Meeting Role Project Elaine Balante and Ann Nakaska, with support from Debbie Stearns, are putting together a spreadsheet schedule of speakers and meeting-role participants to help clubs within District 42. The purpose of this project is to help strengthen the clubs in District 42. Many clubs need help. These clubs could use a club coach, but there are not always enough club coaches available. We are looking to create a list of Toastmasters members in our District …
Set the Tone for September Welcome Back! Welcome back to another year of Toastmasters! I hope you all had an opportunity to have a little adventure over the summer and create lasting memories. Whether you are a seasoned Toastmaster or just starting out on your journey, your club, your division and District 42 are here to support you in reaching your goals. Why Goals Matter What are goals? The textbook definition is that a goal is something you set out …
From Member to Mentor My Path to Distinguished Toastmaster Starting with Purpose I embarked on my Toastmasters journey with a clear goal in mind—not just to enhance my communication skills, but also to reach new heights in my leadership abilities. With a focus on both the Dynamic Leadership and Motivational Strategies paths, I was eager to learn and grow. Exploring Dynamic Leadership In the Dynamic Leadership path, I explored the nuances of my leadership style, aiming to create an inclusive …
Why I Joined an Advanced Toastmasters Club And Why You Might, Too After nine years of ocean breezes and coastal charm in Victoria, BC, I found myself packing up and heading back to Calgary. Among the “to-do” list—find winter boots, reconnect with old friends, and most importantly, find a new Toastmasters club. Now, I’d been a Toastmaster for two years already, and while my previous club was warm, welcoming, and filled with lovely people… it wasn’t quite what I needed …
A Night to Remember Celebrating Christina’s 30-Year Toastmasters Journey On the evening of May 28th, laughter echoed, stories flowed, and glasses clinked in celebration of a milestone that few reach—Christina Kruis’s 30-year journey with Toastmasters. Sixty guests gathered at The Park Restaurant, not just for a delicious meal, but to pay tribute to a woman who has inspired, mentored, and led hundreds of fellow Toastmasters with grace, wisdom, and unwavering dedication. The celebration was masterfully organized by Marcy Field, whose …
Grateful for the Journey Reflecting on a Year of Highs So hard to believe the year is almost over—wow! It has been an incredible experience. Working with my committee chairs and their committees, I have encountered the highs and lows of leadership, and I feel secure in saying there were far more highs! Club Growth Milestones The Club Extension Committee, led by co-chairs Brad Korbo, DTM, and Brian Fegan, DTM, have successfully chartered two new clubs, UCalgary and Marks. We …
Stay Alert Rising Email Threats Targeting Our District We’ve recently seen a concerning rise in spam and phishing emails targeting Toastmasters leaders and members across our district. These emails often impersonate District officers, request urgent actions, or contain malicious links or attachments. These attacks are part of a broader global trend — but together, we can reduce the risk by staying vigilant and taking a few important precautions. What Do These Emails Look Like? They may appear to come from …
Celebrating Service Wayne Cameron Honoured with the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal We are thrilled to share that Creighton (Wayne) Cameron of Moose Jaw, SK, has been awarded the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal for 2024—a distinguished recognition of his unwavering commitment to community service and leadership. Wayne is a true example of selfless dedication. His contributions span multiple organizations, showcasing his deep passion for volunteerism. A longtime supporter of the arts, Wayne served as a board member for RuBarb Productions, where he played …
Lessons from the Frontlines What This Year’s Speech Contests Taught Us Another inspiring contest season has wrapped in District 42, offering more than just trophies. Whether you were a contestant, judge, timer, or enthusiastic audience member, there were valuable lessons for all of us as speakers, leaders, and communicators. Let’s take a look at our contest season and share a few observations to make next season even better. What Went Well Clear Communication Boosted ConfidenceRegular updates and briefings, including participation …
How Wonderful A Youth Leadership StoryPart 2 of Our Story “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.” – Anne Frank A Chance Meeting That Sparked Change If you are lucky, you will meet someone who changes your life and brings new experiences that broaden your perspectives on the world. For me, one of those people is Dr. Sonja Robinson, who has worked as the country director at International Samaritan for …
Grant’s 50 and Fabulous Years as a Toastmaster The Chinook and Twin Rivers Toastmasters Clubs recently hosted an evening celebrating an extraordinary milestone—Grant Hanna’s 50th Toastmasters Anniversary. Grant, a pillar of both clubs, has spent five decades inspiring members with his leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to personal growth and communication excellence. To honour this remarkable achievement, club members organized a celebration fitting for a Golden Anniversary. The event brought together not only current club members but many former members …
The Key Lies In The Value We Provide We have recently experienced success through several key initiatives, all centred around the value we provide to our members. Ultimately, it comes down to what they gain from their involvement. When members recognize the benefits of their time spent with us, they are more likely to engage and participate, which is essential for fostering a healthy club. We are making significant progress towards regaining our Distinguished status and strengthening our club’s position. …
Mic-Drop Miracles Watching Confidence Set Sail One of the many beauties of Toastmasters is witnessing shy people blossom into confident, courageous speakers. It’s a transformative journey we often celebrate in adults, but when you get to see this unfold in children or youth, especially cadets preparing to one day command their own ship, stage, or boardroom, it takes on a whole different kind of magic. This is the story of a group of cadet youths I fondly call my mic-drop …
Rounding the Corner To a Strong Finish! District 42 Conference: See You in Lethbridge! Can you believe it’s already May? This Toastmasters year has flown by, and what a journey it’s been! As we approach the final stretch, there’s so much to celebrate and even more to look forward to.One of the biggest events of the year is just around the corner, our District Conference on May 2 and 3 in Lethbridge. I truly hope to see as many of …
Celebrating 30 Years of Dedication Alex Campbell’s Toastmasters Anniversary A Night to Remember: “Toast & Roast” The Calgary Pace Setters Toastmasters Club recently came together for a heartfelt and joy-filled evening to celebrate an extraordinary milestone—Alex Campbell’s 30th Toastmasters anniversary. A pillar of our club, Alex has spent three decades inspiring members with his leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to personal growth and communication excellence. To honour this remarkable achievement, club members secretly organized a surprise celebration titled “Toast & …
The Power of Less is More For the speech contests, at the club level, then the area, to the division, and to the district, it is a long road for contestants and volunteers. We all know how important it is to leverage volunteers’ time in order to host these speech contests. Efficient Planning at the Area Level At the area level, Division A Council was able to use the same volunteers in the morning to do 2 area contests, then …
Celebrating Distinguished Clubs The Road to Excellence As we approach the final stretch of the Toastmasters year, it’s time to celebrate the dedication and achievements of our clubs striving for excellence. The Distinguished Club Program (DCP) is a benchmark for success, guiding clubs toward growth, quality meetings, and member engagement. If your club isn’t yet on the distinguished path, there’s still time to take action and finish the year strong! What Is the Distinguished Club Program? The DCP is a …
Rotary Youth Exchange A World of Opportunity for Students In 2017, an exciting collaboration between Rotary International and Toastmasters International began, creating a unique opportunity for young people to enhance their communication, leadership, and cultural exchange experiences. Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) is a life-changing program that allows students to spend a year abroad, living with host families, attending local schools, and immersing themselves in new cultures. This year, D42 Toastmasters has facilitated a program for students traveling to Germany France …
Resolving Conflict in Toastmasters A Path to Growth and Unity Toastmasters is a unique educational institution where individuals come together to grow, learn, and develop essential communication and leadership skills. However, like any community, conflicts can arise. When they do, it’s important to remember the core values of Toastmasters—integrity, respect, excellence, and service—and use them as guiding principles to resolve disagreements constructively. Here’s how we can address conflict while staying true to these values: Identify Common Goals: At the heart …
A Dream YLP Project A LinkedIn Connection Sparks an Idea It started with a LinkedIn request. Who was attending the NCDA conference in San Diego this year? Did anybody want to connect? Count me in! DR. Sonia Robinson and I connected virtually on Zoom and the rest as they say is history. When I asked Sonja about her work in Jamaica for International Samaritan, I wondered if her group might benefit from holding a Youth Leadership Program as part of …
Club Growth Report shows continued growth The state of our district is encouraging and continues to improve. Our club base remains at 106, with 94 clubs in good standing—a growth of two clubs in good standing since last month! Of the 10 clubs not currently in good standing, three need just one additional member, four requires two more members, and three require three or more members. This still marks an improvement from last month. We are working closely with all …
Building Leaders My Journey as a Sponsor and Mentor for Schneider Calgary Toastmasters Taking on the role of both a sponsor and mentor for the Schneider Calgary Toastmasters Club has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my Toastmasters journey. It was an opportunity to help establish a new club while guiding its members in developing public speaking and leadership skills. The experience came with challenges, but the growth I gained made it all worthwhile. Sponsor vs. Mentor: Understanding …
WHAT ARE THE JUDGES THINKING?” Speech Contestants ever wonder In Toastmasters speech contests, judges compare contestants to their ideal speaker based on specific criteria to ensure a fair and consistent contest. What are the judges thinking? Check out these tips to help you align your speech with what judges are looking for: Understand the Judging Criteria: 50% is your message!! Craft Clear and Relevant Content: Create a clear road map for the audience to follow your “journey.” Tell Personal Stories: …
It Takes a Village My Journey to Earning a Second DTM When I started with Toastmasters, I never envisioned earning not one but two such awards. The first was under the legacy program and now this one is under the Pathways program. One thing I have learned is that no Toastmaster can achieve their DTM alone, as it takes a village to raise a Toastmaster. My DTM Committee at the Anniversary celebration. Left to right: Yvonne Gage, Sharon Spaargaren, me, …
Reflections On Six Months as District Director As I reflect on the past six months serving as District Director for Toastmasters District 42, I’m humbled by the incredible experiences, growth, and lessons I’ve gained along the way. The Power of Emotional Intelligence and Teamwork One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of emotional intelligence—understanding and managing emotions in myself and others. This has been especially critical when dealing with conflicts and making decisions objectively, without letting …
Paving the Way to Spring and Success The state of our district is encouraging and continues to improve. Our club base remains at 106, with 92 clubs in good standing—a growth of three clubs in good standing since last month! Of the 15 clubs not currently in good standing, five need just one additional member, one requires two more members, and one club, sadly, has chosen to dissolve. However, this still marks an improvement from last month. Share “The Secret” …
Green Horizons D42’s First Sustainability-Themed Toastmaster Club Rethinking the Future of a Toastmasters Club Many Toastmasters clubs continue to face membership challenges in the wake of Covid-19. How should a club respond? Division B’s Toastmasters At Palliser Club found themselves at a crossroads. They responded with vision and innovation, “refocusing” their purpose. Today, they are proudly known as Green Horizons, a sustainability-themed Toastmasters club inspired by the globally successful Sustainable Speakers Club of London, England. “We knew we had to …
Building the Future by Empowering Our Youth A Journey Through the Youth Leadership Program We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future. Franklin D. Roosevelt Imagine a future with confident, engaged, and well-spoken youth. The Youth Leadership Program (YLP) provides a platform for youth to stretch the skills they have, learn new skills, and take those skills on the road. As a facilitator of the eight-week program, I felt inspired, hopeful, and …
The Right Time! When is it the right time to do something? You might be surprised! Sometimes we get invited to take on a role or go on a trip on short notice. Sometimes we gracefully decline saying that the timing just isn’t right. I have responded that way on a few occasions only to discover that the opportunity never came my way again. The one that stands out for me was when I was working at a junior high …
So You Think You Can Judge! The Top 10 Reasons Toastmasters Speech Contests Are a Game-Changer Speech contests at Toastmasters offer a variety of benefits to contestants and officials, as well as the promotion of our organization. Consider whether any of these side effects of competition would interest you! Improved Presentation Delivery: Participants gain experience delivering speeches under pressure, which helps them refine their speaking skills and confidence. Enhanced Specific Skills for Connection: Contestants focus on effective speech delivery and …
Midyear Milestones and Momentum Celebrating Growth and Looking Ahead As the Julian calendar approaches its year’s end, the Toastmasters calendar reaches its midpoint. With six months behind us and six months ahead, we can celebrate our accomplishments while looking forward with optimism and anticipation for what lies ahead. This month, our district has increased its number of clubs to 103, thanks to the successful reinstatement of two clubs. Of these, 87 are in good standing. The reinstated clubs have also …
Distinguish Yourself and Your Club Every Toastmasters club strives to be distinguished, and for good reason—it reflects a commitment to excellence. A distinguished club is one where members grow, goals are achieved, and everyone thrives in a positive learning environment. But beyond the club’s success, remember why you joined Toastmasters: to distinguish yourself. Each of us comes to Toastmasters to grow—to develop our communication, leadership, and self-confidence. We aim to become the best versions of ourselves, step by step, one …
Applause for Our Dedicated Area Directors! By now, I hope all District 42 members have had the chance to meet your Area Directors. They’ve been working hard to conduct club visits and complete reports to support each club’s growth and success. Let’s take a moment to recognize and celebrate their dedication and commitment to Toastmasters! One of the key roles of an Area Director is to visit each club twice a year. These visits are more than a formality—they’re vital …
You Are Part of the District 42 Toastmasters Family Did you know you are a valued District 42 Toastmasters community member? You are not alone in your journey. Our Toastmasters community is filled with warm-hearted people, and you will always find guidance and support if you reach out. District 42, with its 104 clubs and nearly 2,000 members, is supported by a dedicated leadership team of 63 leaders and committee chairs. They work diligently in various aspects of district operations …
Staying Engaged During the Pathways Outage Toastmasters International recently announced that its Pathways Learning Experience will be migrating to a new Learning Management System, resulting in Base Camp being temporarily unavailable from October 9th to 25th. While this may seem like an interruption, it presents a unique opportunity for members to stay engaged and continue their personal growth outside of the digital platform. Here are a few tips to keep progressing during the outage: Leverage Previous Evaluations to Improve and …
Distinguished Leaders of 2023/2024 We are beyond delighted to extend our heartfelt congratulations to several of our past Area Directors and Division Directors who have achieved distinguished status. This prestigious recognition is a testament to their unwavering dedication and remarkable leadership during their time in office. However, we know that such accomplishments are never the result of one person’s efforts alone. It truly takes a village to reach this level of success. These leaders, through their tireless hard work, perseverance, …
District 42 Of the Year Recipients 2023/2024 We are excited to announce the recipients of our “Of the Year“ awards at the district level. The selection process was no easy task, as each of our nominees brought something exceptional to the table. A dedicated committee worked diligently, recognizing the incredible contributions from every candidate. Each member we considered exemplified excellence, making it nearly impossible to choose just a few. To us, every one of them is a winner, and we were honored …
How to Submit, Promote, and Publish an Event in District 42 Planning a successful Toastmasters event requires organization and attention to detail. Whether you’re organizing a workshop, a club contest, or a keynote presentation, following the right process to submit, promote, and publish your event can make all the difference. In District 42, we have a streamlined system that helps your event get the attention it deserves. Here’s how you can make sure your event is a hit from start …
Become a Better Speaker Are you a speaker? Chances are you are a speaker if you are a student, a parent, a lector, an usher, a catechist, a priest, a religious, a youth minister or someone who says hello to a person on the street. And I know how you can become an even better speaker. I have been giving presentations and speaking to groups of two to more than 500 people for more than 40 years, so I should …
Celebrating 40 Years of Toastmasters: A Heartfelt Milestone On Saturday, September 7, I was deeply honoured to be recognized for my 40 years as a Toastmasters member. The celebration was attended by 29 members and guests, and I was truly humbled by the experience. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Saya Sanyal for expertly organizing the event. It was incredibly moving to hear from so many who spoke about the influence I have had on their Toastmasters journeys. …
A Message from Your 2024-2025 District Director Dear fellow Toastmasters, Are you ready for a new Toastmasters year?! Serving as your District Director for 2024-2025 is an honour. Toastmasters has been an incredible source of growth and learning for me, and I am excited to give back to the District 42 family. I look forward to working alongside you, learning from you, and growing with you on this amazing journey of personal and professional development. First, I want to acknowledge …
District 42 2023/24 Club Growth Team Honored with Prestigious Award at Hall of Fame Event At the Hall of Fame event during the International Convention, I had the immense honour of accepting the District Club Growth Award on behalf of the entire Club Growth Team for the 2023-2024 term. This recognition is a testament to the collaborative efforts and unwavering dedication of a remarkable group of Toastmasters who worked tirelessly to support and grow District 42. This award is not …
Change is Coming Summer will soon be a fading memory. The colour of the leaves will change from green to the rich colours of fall. The season will change. There will also be a change to the colour of Toastmasters this fall. At the recent Toastmasters International Convention in Anaheim California, Toastmasters International Chief Executive Officer Daniel Rex updated members on the exciting change to the Learning Management System which Toastmasters will be rolling out in the near future. The …
Making a Real-World Impact Through Volunteerism My Journey to a Second DTM I decided all of the projects for my second DTM would include a volunteer organization and have an impact in the real world. As the videographer/photographer for the Medicine Hat Cowboy Poetry Foundation, I had the opportunity to film and edit a historical documentary of Bud Van Cleave, a 93-year-old Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame inductee. Watch the documentary here. The next opportunity was to learn how …
Closing the Toastmasters Year with a Bang: Join the Push for Good Standing As the Toastmasters year draws to a close, with June 30 just around the corner, we find ourselves on the cusp of achieving something remarkable. We only need three more clubs to get back into good standing, and with your help, we can do it! This is a call to action for all our clubs: let’s rally together, plan engaging open houses, and bring in potential members. …
Recognition and appreciation of our members’ contributions Recognition Recognition of people’s efforts and accomplishments is crucial and should never be overlooked or underestimated. Many individuals go to great lengths to support others, often making significant sacrifices in their personal, professional, and family lives to help others reach their goals. Their dedication involves spending countless hours caring, planning, and thinking, efforts that deeply impact our Toastmasters community. We must remember and appreciate these contributions. Recognizing such dedication is not only fair …
An Alliance Impacting Youth This year marked a significant collaboration between District 42 Toastmasters Youth Leadership Facilitators – Marcy Field, Irma Goosen, Geetha Nicodemus, Arobo Ako, and Christina Kruis – and Rotary International Exchange students, resulting in a profound impact on youth development. The facilitators lent their expertise to support Rotary students. Through a series of online sessions and a dedicated workshop during their family orientation weekend in April, the facilitators empowered these students to hone their communication and leadership …
Attending our Conference By investing in yourself and attending our District 42 Toastmasters Conference, you embark on a commendable journey. It’s not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about opening yourself up to unexpected discoveries and opportunities. Throughout my experiences attending numerous conferences, I’ve consistently found valuable insights and practical takeaways that have enriched my personal and professional life. Educational sessions and keynote speakers Step into the captivating realm of our educational sessions, where insightful speakers will take you on a …
Serving as a Club Officer Serving as a club officer with a Toastmasters Club is an invaluable experience that not only enriches your own life but also positively impacts the lives of those around you. The seven nominated club officer positions are president, vice president education, vice president membership, vice president public relations, sergeant at arms, treasurer and secretary. The responsibilities for each role are specific, though they may overlap or require cooperation between two or more officers. There are …
Encouraging members to take on leadership roles Leadership is a multifaceted responsibility that extends beyond simply directing a team’s actions; it involves nurturing and developing the potential leaders within that team. Identifying individuals with leadership capacity can be challenging, but by implementing a comprehensive orientation program, organizations can equip prospective leaders with the essential skills and knowledge needed for effective leadership. The orientation process can take different forms. It could involve a straightforward speech outlining the responsibilities associated with each …
And The Winner Is?? It’s contest time! This is part of the Toastmasters year where we challenge ourselves to step outside of our comfort zone and do something we’re not used to doing. Whether we act as a contestant or help out as a judge or contest officials, we can learn and grow in ways we don’t expect. By the time you read this, club and area contests will be completed, and our focus now becomes Division and then District …
Strengthening Character Muscles Through the Forest of Core Values In the hustle and bustle of modern life, where distractions abound, and priorities shift like sand in the wind, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Our character, the essence of who we are, often takes a backseat to the demands of the external world. Yet, amidst the chaos, there lies a sanctuary – a metaphorical forest where the trees whisper timeless truths and the air hums with the …
This DTM journey is not unlike the first! I found looking at the requirements for the Pathways DTM, that I had achieved most of them! And that’s how it was the first time around. But that was a Legacy DTM, this is a Pathways DTM – hmmm! The same objective, but slightly different requirements. When I investigated what achieving the DTM means it “represents the highest educational achievement in Toastmasters, in both Communication and Leadership.” The bottom line is, I …
Legacy and Longevity I recently attended the 10th-anniversary celebration of one of our clubs, the Healthy Living Toastmasters Club, where I had the pleasure of meeting numerous enthusiastic, fun, and dedicated members. During the event, participants were asked to share three words that encapsulated their feelings about the anniversary, and it was quite enjoyable to hear the diverse responses. Some of the words thrown around included “party,” “feast,” “food,” “booze,” “camaraderie,” and “having fun,” reflecting the vibrant and celebratory atmosphere. …
Celebrating Excellence An inside look at the Toastmasters District 42 “Of the Year” Awards Toastmasters in District 42 recognizes the outstanding contributions of individuals, clubs, areas and divisions annually. The Of the Year (OTY) Awards celebrate the hard work and dedication of those who make a difference in their Toastmasters community. This article offers a detailed overview of the awards, including their purpose, key players, selection process, and important deadlines. Why Recognizing Excellence? The District 42 Of the Year Awards …
Recognition Club & Individual Recognizing Individual Sponsorship If you have helped promote and sponsor new members to join your club, you have made a significant contribution to our membership growth and deserve recognition. Sponsor five or more members within one program year to qualify for the following rewards: a unique blue pin for 5 members, a unique burgundy pin for 10 members, and a special discount code for 25% off your next product purchase from the Toastmasters Online Store for …
My Third DTM Decision To Make About five years ago when the Pathways program was first introduced in our district I had a decision to make: Whether to continue in the old program to complete my Distinguished Toastmaster Award in the two-year grace period, as I was halfway through my Communication and Leadership manuals (older toastmasters will recall these fondly), or switch to the new Pathways program. This would have been my third DTM and I wrestled leaving my work …
Secrets To Success “There are no secrets to SUCCESS. It is the result of preparation, HARD WORK, and learning from failure.” ~Collin Powell We all have different reasons for joining Toastmasters. It was in the spring of 2015 that I moved to Calgary and other than the people I worked with; I didn’t know anyone in this wonderful new city. It was in 2016 that I joined Toastmasters after one of the worst years I had experienced. I will spare you …
Pathways Are Evolving! Pathways, the Toastmasters education program, is designed to help members build public speaking, communication, and leadership skills. Members access educational materials digitally through Base Camp, the online system where Pathways lives. Base Camp, the online system where Pathways is accessed, is moving to a new learning management system (LMS) early next year. This will lay the foundation for many exciting improvements to the Pathways learning experience, including easier platform navigation, more frequent content updates, and a future …
I wish I had joined earlier What if you had joined Toastmasters years ago?What if you possessed Toastmaster skills earlier in your career?Ask most Toastmasters and their response is “I wish I had joined earlier?” What if you could give a young person the opportunity for success academically, socially and professionally earlier and faster? Toastmasters Youth Leadership Program provides a safe environment to learn, practise and improve communication and leadership skills including Speaking spontaneously Developing effective listening skills Organizing and presenting …