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Supporting Our Clubs to Reach the Finish Line Our primary goal is to support challenged clubs and help them become Distinguished. To be recognized as a Distinguished club, remember that you must meet your education and administrative goals and have either 20 members or a net growth of at least three members by June 30. Consider using these tools to grow membership: Attract New Members Club-Building Communication Scripts Turning Guests Into Members Article  From Guest to Member Article Prospective Member …

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District 42 Leadership Legacy Collection Every year, dedicated leaders step forward to guide District 42 through new opportunities, challenges, and achievements. Their service represents a commitment to helping members grow as communicators, leaders, and community builders. Our website is updating our District 42 Wall of Fame. This District 42 historical collection preserves the stories, accomplishments, and experiences of our District Governors/Directors and leadership teams. It honors the individuals who helped shape our district while creating a valuable resource for future …

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District 42 “Of the Year” Awards Key Dates & Submission Process One of the final duties of District 42 is to recognize and celebrate the outstanding members and leaders across our District through the annual “Of the Year” Awards program. As we prepare to close this chapter of District 42, we are proud to continue this important tradition of recognizing excellence and dedication. The process will remain the same as in previous years. For more information and to download the …

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Closing Reflections Program Quality Director, District 42 A Meaningful Journey As this Toastmasters year comes to an end, it’s hard to put into words just how meaningful this journey has been for me. Serving as your Program Quality Director has been more than a role; it has been an experience that has truly touched my heart. Lessons in Leadership When I first stepped into this position, I knew it would be a year of growth and challenge. What I didn’t …

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Celebrating 30 Years A Special Milestone I am honoured to share this special milestone in my Toastmasters journey — celebrating 30 years of membership and receiving a wonderful commemorative plaque. Celebrating at the Final District 42 Conference It was incredible to mark this achievement at the final District 42 Conference, surrounded by many friends and fellow Toastmasters who have been part of this journey.I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked alongside Nandini, the District 42 Contest Chair, and …

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From Courage to Distinction My Journey to Becoming a Distinguished Toastmaster I am proud to share that I have officially achieved my Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) designation with Toastmasters International. More Than a Title This milestone is more than a title; it represents a journey of transformation. When I first explored the DTM requirements, I realized something unexpected: I had already been building toward it through every speech delivered, every leadership role taken, and every moment I stepped outside my comfort …

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The Content Creators Behind District 42 The Team That Carried the Brand to the Finish Line  As District 42 prepares to close its final chapter on June 30, one team has remained quietly but powerfully consistent in shaping how the District shows up to its members and the world: the Content Creators. A Team Working With Purpose For the past 11 months, this volunteer team has been the engine behind District 42’s visibility. Their work has not been accidental, spontaneous, …

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Reviving a Struggling Club Leadership, Change, and the Power of Community What should we do when a Toastmasters club begins to struggle? Many leaders face difficult questions: Should we continue operating with declining membership? Should we remain online because change feels risky? Or should we make bold decisions to rebuild? These questions became very real for the Circle T Toastmasters Club. Like many clubs during and after the pandemic, Circle T survived because of a small group of dedicated online …

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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 …

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Toastmasters and Rotary members at a demo meeting at Tsuut’ina Nation, building community through public speaking and leadership

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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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, …

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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 …

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My DTM Story The proud little princess has grown up Before the Toastmasters program At a very young age, I went to my mom’s company and met her colleagues for the first time. I hid behind my mom and didn’t dare to say a word to those friendly adults. That was when I was given the nickname “a proud little princess.” From that moment on, I became nervous about speaking in front of even a small group. I avoided asking …

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Seeds Planted at Beacon Hill: A Demo Meeting Opens Doors What does it take to plant the seed of a new Toastmasters club? Sometimes, it starts with a single lead. In February, that lead brought a team of dedicated volunteers to the Beacon Hill condominium residence in Calgary — and the result was an evening no one will soon forget. Club Extension Committee Co-Chair Marcy Field and Area A10 Director Greg Ptashny organized a demonstration Toastmasters meeting for residents and …

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Rotatary Exchange Students and Toastmasters facilitators with national flags

What happens when Toastmasters take their skills beyond the club? Youth Leadership Programs are opening doors—for participants and for members. Across District 42, Toastmasters are supporting youth and young adults in building communication and leadership skills, while growing their own in the process. It’s leadership in action, collaboration in motion, and impact that reaches far beyond a meeting agenda.

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Two women travelers with luggage stand smiling beside a world map graphic under the title “Toastmasters Across Borders,” representing global connection through Toastmasters.

Toastmasters Across Borders: Finding Community While Travelling How visiting Toastmasters clubs abroad creates instant connection and community For years, I had been intrigued by stories of Toastmasters who visited clubs in other countries and instantly felt at home. One story in particular stayed with me. A dear friend, Distinguished Toastmaster Geetha N, often spoke about how finding a Toastmasters club whenever she moved for work gave her something invaluable: an instant community. A familiar room. Familiar rhythms. Familiar encouragement. Her …

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Doses of Connection Finding Connection Beyond the Screen As someone who happily works from home, I found that something was missing: the simple connections and built-over-time friendships that used to happen naturally in my office setting. I craved social connection and also terribly missed all the events (professional, volunteer, and social) that I used to attend pre-pandemic, as they often recharged my spirit. Toastmasters fills the gap and then some. More Than Meetings: A Community That Grows With You I joined …

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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, …

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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 …

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Public Mandarin Speech Contest Draws Interest with Toastmasters On February 22, 2026, there was an inspiring example of community engagement through a public Mandarin Bilingual Speech Event organized by the SAME Toastmasters Club. Timed beautifully during the Lunar New Year season, the event created a vibrant space where culture, communication, and leadership came together. Although registration was capped at 50 due to room limitations, an estimated 55 attendees arrived. More than 50 people filled the room, and several stood in …

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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 …

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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, …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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Do, Tell, Amplify Building a Personal Brand That Works for You Do, Tell, Amplify: Personal Branding for LinkedIn Impact was more than a session on profiles and posts – it was a powerful reminder that everyone already has a personal brand. The real question is whether we are intentionally shaping it. Led by Khurram Salman, DTM, the session explored personal branding as a living promise – the story, experience, and value people associate with you, online and offline. Khurram opened …

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February Update 5 Months to Go! It’s February, which means we are just five months away from the end of the Toastmasters year, and June 30 will be here before we know it! Our goal? To make District 42 a Distinguished District, every small step gets us closer. Here’s where we stand: We currently have 94 clubs in good standing. 9 clubs need just members to reach the required 8 for full standing. We also need new clubs to be …

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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, …

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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 …

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District 42 Conference Update Save the Date: District 42 Conference 2026 – Calgary, Alberta As we move through the holiday season and toward the close of the 2025 calendar year, we are also entering the second half of the 2025–2026 Toastmasters year. This is an exciting time, with many important announcements ahead. Conference Dates: April 24–25, 2026 Conference Venue: The Glenmore Inn & Convention Centre1000 Glenmore Court SECalgary, Alberta, Canada, T2C 2E6 ReservationDesk.com: 866-994-2074 Space is limited. For alternative accommodations, …

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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 …

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How Toastmasters Helped Me Write a Book I joined Toastmasters in 2009 to become a better public speaker. What I didn’t expect was that the skills I developed while working through the Toastmasters materials would help me publish a book. After more than two decades in the Canadian Armed Forces, including deployments to Afghanistan, I carried a collection of experiences and lessons I wanted to capture. The challenge was not the content; it was organizing those ideas into something clear …

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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 …

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Choosing Positivity The Toastmasters Way Forward Toastmasters is built on a powerful foundation: a positive, safe, and supportive environment where every member can grow. From the nervous newcomer giving a first introduction to the seasoned speaker refining their craft, each of us deserves a space where encouragement, respect, and kindness are the norm. As leaders and members, our words matter. How we speak about each other and how we handle challenges shape the culture around us. When we share unverified …

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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 …

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A Year of Growth How Toastmasters Shaped My Leadership Journey Stepping Into the New Year with Purpose At the start of 2025, I was a member of just one club, Calgary Talking Toastmasters, and serving as Division C Director with a fantastic team of Area Directors. We began the year deep in preparations for the Division C Contest and our Circle of Gold event. I knew I couldn’t pull off these projects alone, so I leaned on fellow leaders across …

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My Secret Writing Ally How Grammarly Helps Me as a Toastmaster As Toastmasters, we spend a lot of time working on how we speak—but just as much of our success depends on how we write. Whether it’s preparing a speech, drafting a blog post, or sharing a club update, our words set the tone long before we say them out loud. That’s why I rely on Grammarly—my silent writing partner that keeps me on track every time I write. Why …

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Toastmasters Connects with the Community at TEDx Calgary Toastmasters made a strong impression at this year’s TEDx Calgary event where members of District 42 Toastmasters attended an engaging and welcoming booth that drew steady interest throughout the day. Visitors were eager to learn how Toastmasters can help them build confidence, improve communication, and develop leadership skills. Our volunteers shared personal stories of growth and success, helping attendees see how Toastmasters can support both personal and professional development. The booth’s friendly atmosphere …

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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 …

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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 …

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Lessons from the Club Membership Summit The Club Membership Summit held on Saturday, October 25, offered a wealth of insights, reminders, and lessons that can help every club strengthen its foundation and grow. Thank you to everyone who attended, participated, and stayed engaged throughout — your enthusiasm and willingness to share made the summit a true success! Here are some of the key takeaways to help every club build strong, vibrant membership and quality meetings: Plan Ahead Have your agenda …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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A Toastmasters promotional graphic featuring an older man in a suit and tie smiling, with text reading “Why a 90-Year-Old Joined Toastmasters—Again. Tom Shindruk, Heritage Go-Getters Toastmasters Club

What prompted Tom Shindruk to join Toastmasters for the third time? Let’s go back 68 years. At age 22, Tom secured a position with Sunkist Growers Inc., a citrus farmers’ co-op in California. Living in Winnipeg, his sales territory stretched across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Western Ontario to Thunder Bay, North Dakota, and Northern Minnesota. This meant extensive travel and frequent presentations. But Tom was terrified of public speaking. Determined to improve, he found a retired school teacher in Elmwood (a Winnipeg …

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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 …

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"Group of enthusiastic Toastmasters celebrating together, alongside the title ‘Beyond the Checkmark: How Servant Leadership Shapes Lasting Toastmasters Clubs’ with sponsor, mentor, and coach icons."

Many Toastmasters start with the goal of improving their speaking skills. But the real growth happens when we move beyond checkmarks and titles and embrace servant leadership. True leadership is not just about advancing yourself—it’s about creating more leaders and shaping clubs that last. Club Extension: Planting the Seeds of Growth Serving as a Toastmasters Club Sponsor, Club Mentor, or Club Coach is more than a requirement on the path to Distinguished Toastmaster. It is an opportunity to make a …

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What’s New in Pathways Heads up! Pathways is changing again, and Toastmasters International has finally listened and is going to start incorporating the legacy program back into Pathways.  Changes are scheduled to start in Q4.   At the end of July, the District’s Pathways adoption was sitting at 89% and my goal this year is to bump this above 95%.  To assist in achieving this goal, D42 has created some fun new incentives surrounding pathways this year.  Here is a summary, …

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Office background with three face images—two women and one man—framing the article title “The Best Volunteer Role You’ve Never Considered.”

When people think about volunteering, they often imagine serving food at a shelter, coaching a youth sports team, or lending a hand at a community fundraiser. Few, however, think of becoming a Club Sponsor or Club Mentor in Toastmasters. Yet this is one of the most rewarding roles you may never have considered. A Front Row Seat to Growth As a Club Mentor, I had the privilege of guiding Heart of the Rockies Toastmasters during its earliest days. Watching a …

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Guests and members smiling together at the Bondfire Open House

Building Buzz Before the Event Over the course of two months, the Fluor Communicators PR Team created excitement with social media video messaging leading up to the Open House. The results were clear: 65 individuals RSVP’d and 60 attended. This was one of our strongest turnouts yet! A Warm “Bondfire” Welcome Our “Bondfire: Igniting Connection and Community” Open House was about more than speeches. It was about connection. The event began with a warm welcome from Toastmaster Marcy Field, DTM, …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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My Journey as District Director As your District Director, I’ve had the privilege of serving as an HR specialist, identifying and nurturing future leaders. I’ve also managed the district’s finances with budget and expenses, overseeing district operations while guiding a team of over 60 leaders to achieve our District Success Plan- to be Distinguished. What I’ve Learned Resilience in Leadership: This journey wasn’t always smooth—there were ups and downs, and not every decision met with immediate approval. But these challenges …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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Talking to a Room & a Webcam How to Survive (and Shine) in a Hybrid Toastmasters Meeting I belong to a hybrid club, and I have found that whether you’re delivering a powerful keynote or giving your first Icebreaker, there are some keys to impressing both the folks sitting in the room and those watching from their couches in fuzzy slippers. I want to share what’s worked for me, in hopes it helps you too. Say Hello to Everyone—Even the …

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Finish Strong Energize Your Toastmasters Club Before the Summer Break At this time of year, it can be tempting to mentally check-out of Toastmasters. But June can be the perfect time to reflect on progress, celebrate wins, and set the stage for a vibrant new year. Here are some tips for clubs and individuals to finish the year on a high note. Hold a “Year in Review” meeting where members highlight their growth, complete final Pathways projects, or receive recognition. …

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Crafting Connection How to Create a Show-Stopping Toastmasters Newsletter with Canva In the world of Toastmasters, communication is everything, and a well-designed newsletter is your club’s megaphone. It informs, inspires, and unites. It’s where stories are shared, successes celebrated, and future events teased with excitement. And the best part? You don’t need to be a graphic designer to make it shine. With Canva, you can turn simple updates into scroll-stopping content. Why a Newsletter? Because your club has a story …

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When Losing Isn’t Losing What a Speech Contest Taught Me About Winning Last weekend, I competed in the Toastmasters District 42 International Speech Contest—and came in second. Now, let’s be honest. The goal was first. The dream? To advance to the next level and eventually stand on the World Championship of Public Speaking stage. That didn’t happen this time. But here’s the thing: losing doesn’t always mean losing. When I enter a speaking contest, I always carry an ulterior motive. …

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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 …

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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 …

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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. …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 & …

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Why Speech Contest Roles Are a Goldmine for Skill-Building Speech contests often feature a select group of well-prepared contestants, but have you ever wondered how much effort goes into making these events successful? Behind every contest is a team of dedicated volunteers, each playing a crucial role in ensuring the event runs smoothly. And here’s the best part: Each of these roles helps you develop essential leadership and organizational skills. Let’s explore the key roles in a speech contest and …

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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 …

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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 …

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Empowering Women: Leadership, Communication, and Community Impact March is widely recognized as a time to celebrate International Women’s Day, and this year, I took a moment to reflect on my journey, one of impact, advocacy, and leadership, particularly within the community of female immigrants and youth. Redefining Possible Through Leadership I had the honor of co-hosting the Women Techmakers (WTM) IWD event, themed “Redefine Possible,” as a WTM and Google Ambassador. In this role, I led conversations on leadership and …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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 …

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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: …

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Step Up and Lead: District 42 Extends Leadership Nominations Deadline We understand that the nomination process for district leadership can be demanding, and to support everyone in putting forth their best candidates, we are extending the deadline by an additional two weeks to March 7, 2025. We hope this extra time will help encourage more nominations, allowing us to better assess our proposal to DEC on April 13.   The roles that require nominations include: Division Directors, Area Directors, and other …

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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, …

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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 …

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