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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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. …
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 …
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. …
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 & …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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: …
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 …
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 …
Spicing Up Your Meetings The Power of Themes Ever feel like your Toastmasters meetings are a bit…well, routine? Inject some much-needed spark and pizzazz by introducing themed meetings! A theme provides a unifying thread that can elevate your club’s atmosphere and make each gathering memorable. The beauty lies in the flexibility: Simple & Fun: “Pets,” “Food”, ” Hobbies”– these lighthearted themes offer easy entry points for members and guests. Deep & Meaningful: “Personal Growth,” “Self-Development,” “Overcoming Challenges” – these more …
Secrets to Success President’s Distinguished Clubs Share Their Strategies for Engaging Members and Celebrating Achievements Have you ever wondered if a Presidents Distinguished club does anything different to engage their members to achieve the consistent success that they seem to achieve? I wondered if they had some different approaches that might make a difference for other clubs that were struggling to build or keep their membership. My DTM project team and I thought that we should check it out. We …
From Supportive Parent to Distinguished Toastmaster My Toastmasters Journey When I joined Toastmasters in April 2013, I never thought of earning a DTM—in fact, I didn’t even know what that was. I joined to be the moral support for my daughter. But as I attended meetings, I fell in love with Toastmasters and couldn’t stop bragging about it to anyone who would listen. The Beginning of the Journey At the start, my focus was simply on gaining confidence and improving …
Building Momentum Celebrating Progress and Embracing New Opportunities Happy New Year, Fellow Toastmasters! As we reflect on the past six months and look forward to the next, we have a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our accomplishments and embrace the excitement of what lies ahead. The state of our district is encouraging and continues to improve month by month. Our club base remains at 106, with 89 clubs in good standing—a growth of two clubs in good standing since last month! …
Celebrating Mentors: Guiding Stars of Our Toastmasters Journey Do you know about the District Guiding Star Award? Do you have a mentor in your club who consistently supports and inspires members? Here’s your chance to show appreciation for their dedication and impact! Mentorship is the cornerstone of personal and professional growth in Toastmasters. A mentor’s guidance can transform a member’s journey from uncertain beginnings to confident leadership. By sharing their expertise and wisdom, mentors create ripples of positive impact that …
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 …
Exciting Opportunity for Future Leaders: Youth Leadership Project with the Navy League of Canada Hello, Toasties! Did you know that when I’m not busy “toasting” up a storm at Toastmasters and perfecting speeches, I’m volunteering as the Board President for the Navy League of Canada, Calgary Branch? In light of this, I’m thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership between Fluor Communicators, District 42, and the Navy League of Canada. Starting January 2025, we’ll be launching a ground-breaking Youth Leadership …
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 …
Glenmore RSVP Toastmasters Celebrate 30th Anniversary! Oh, what a night!! Have you ever met a friend from the past …. suddenly you are back to those days of laughter and good times! Those connections were definitely made at Glenmore RSVP Toastmasters 30th Anniversary Celebration. It was a heartwarming evening as past, present, and new members and TM friends from other clubs united to celebrate with Glenmore RSVP. It was a special honor to have D42 Director, Daisy Wei and …
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 …
Unlocking the Secrets to Successful Mentorship In today’s fast-paced world, mentorship has emerged as a cornerstone for personal and professional growth. The right mentor can transform challenges into opportunities, guiding mentees through the intricacies of their careers and helping them achieve their goals. One such opportunity to explore the magic of mentorship is through the upcoming workshop, “Mentor Magic,” led by Toastmasters Arobo Ako and Marcy Field, DTM, from Fluor Communicators. **Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 7 PM**, this online …
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 …
Messages from the OTY’s Champions Rookie of the Year: Kathleen Goebel (Mosaic Masters) Testimonials: Completed levels one through three in the Presentation Mastery pathway, thereby achieving Triple Crown Pin. Have been a Club Officer, and a Mentor of a member. Played a crucial role in developing the Club Success Plan. Set the tone for their club’s journey to become President Distinguished. Participated as Nomination Committee Chair; Awards Committee Member; Moment of Truth Oct 2023 and Led MOT April 2024. Highlighted …
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 …
Program Quality Report: Exciting Updates and Acknowledgments Our teams are diligently preparing for the next phase of our initiatives, and we’re thrilled to share some important updates with you! Transition to the New Pathways Platform Chuck Leblanc is currently leading the transition to the new Pathways platform. If you haven’t enrolled yet, now is the perfect time to do so—make sure you complete your enrollment before the October 9 deadline. During the upcoming outage, please continue to work on your …
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 …
Road to DTMPW Along the path to Distinguished Toastmaster, we learn the value of leadership and team building. When I began my Pathways journey 4 years ago, I was unaware of the Pathways requirements for achieving a DTM designation. I had just earned my second DTM and had no interest in earning another one. Four years later after completing two Pathways, Engaging Humour and Team Collaboration, and starting on my third I saw an item about completing your DTM. Upon …
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 …
Exploring Boundless Opportunities Beyond Home Club in Toastmasters Whether you’re a Toastmasters novice or a seasoned speaker, the journey toward mastering communication and leadership is an ongoing adventure. As you progress in your Toastmasters experience, you might crave more challenges and opportunities to hone your skills. Fortunately, the Toastmasters community extends beyond your home club, offering plenty of resources to help you grow. Here’s a list of educational resources and opportunities available to all Toastmasters in District 42: Monthly Pathway …
Messages from the OTY’s Champions Rookie of the Year: Fola Alabi (Igniters Club) As I reflect on my journey through Toastmasters, winning the Rookie of the Year award at the club, area, and district levels has been an extraordinary honour. It’s more than just a title; it’s a testament to the growth, dedication, and passion I have poured into this incredible organization.Toastmasters has been my guiding light, illuminating a path of self-discovery and personal development. Each meeting, speech, and evaluation …
Circle of Gold Story It’s Contest Time!!! There are no sweeter words to the ear of a contest junkie, nor the ear of the core team of Circle of Gold! During contest season, the Circle of Gold comes alive and offers support and feedback to our contest speakers. Circle of Gold was the brainchild of Darlene Davies, a well-known and much-loved Toastmaster in District 42 more than 20 years ago. It began as a way of helping the competitive speakers …
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 …
In-Person TM Meetings – Many Member Benefits!!! Toastmaster District 42 provides opportunities to create clubs that fit all Toastmasters’ needs. At last count, D42 offers 26 In-Person Clubs, 35 Hybrid Clubs and 41 Clubs that meet online. There is something for everyone and advantages to every format. Here are some Benefits of In-Person Clubs. Personal Connections At an In-Person meeting, the first thing one may notice is members shaking hands and introducing themselves. A friendly greeting makes guests feel …
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 …
Celebrating a half-century adventure in Toastmasters Embarking on a half-century journey with Toastmasters, Dave Cartledge is a living testament to the incredible power of effective communication and leadership. Speaking with this seasoned Toastmaster to celebrate his remarkable 50th anniversary, we learn of a wealth of experiences, wisdom, and invaluable lessons learned throughout this extraordinary half-century adventure. Dave Cartledge, an active member of MVP Advanced Toastmasters interviewed by Christina Kruis. Which was the first club you joined? Foresters Toastmaster Club, Edmonton …
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 …
Nurturing Growth and Success In the Next Six Months As we embark on our journey of the next six months, it’s crucial to define our aspirations and set clear objectives for the betterment of our Toastmasters clubs. Here are some key focus areas that could potentially shape the path forward: 1. Grow Membership: Initiating targeted outreach programs to attract new members. Implementing retention strategies to ensure a sustainable increase in our club’s size. 2. Help Members Achieve Personal Goals: Conducting …
Humorous Gala Recap December 5th was an auspicious date! It was the Humorous Gala date hosted by Inspired Toastmasters and Sponsored by Circle of Gold. A well-known past Toastmaster, Palmo Carpino, was the Master Of Ceremonies and led the large crowd through an evening of laughter and fun! More than 110 people attended to watch 8 of the funniest Toastmasters in District 42 present their original speeches. Stanley Vong, Dave Dyck, Bob Rodgers, Mona Cooley, Amanda Cronin, Lucas Steeves, Laura …
Road to Regina Paving the Way https://youtu.be/hq2bavwrTmY?si=sZP6UkAvabraOs91 I am the Education Chair for the District 42 Spring Conference which will be held in Regina, May 3 – 5, 2024 and I (along with the entire conference committee) have been hard at work planning for a fantastic event!In 2022 I attended my first-ever District conference which was in Ontario. When I flew out there my mindset was, “This is an opportunity of a lifetime,” and it proved to be life-changing! By …
Building Success Establishing Schneider Calgary Toastmasters Club Several years ago, as a member of the Kalamalka Toastmasters Club in Vernon, BC, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Toastmasters in fostering personal and professional growth. The experience left me convinced that establishing a dedicated Toastmasters club for our Calgary office staff could yield similar benefits. In this article, I will outline the steps taken to create and charter the Schneider Calgary Toastmasters, emphasizing the importance of executive support, budget planning, …
Nurturing Leadership A Toastmasters Journey In this article, we delve into the heart of the Toastmasters mission and explore practical strategies for fostering leadership and personal growth within the club. The mission statement encapsulates the essence of Toastmasters, emphasizing creating a supportive learning environment for developing oral communication and leadership skills. However, the challenge lies in consistently putting “people first” as we navigate the leadership landscape. Making Personal Connections to Inspire To inspire individuals rather than merely motivating them to …
20 Years In The Making It was one cool December 2004 evening when I had dinner with a university friend. It had been years since we saw each other, and it was an excellent opportunity to reminisce about our school days.One thing that night stuck in my mind; a new strange word I hadn’t heard before. Toastmasters.I started to become curious about what it was about. First, I thought it was a group of people baking and cooking something; like …
Are you struggling to make the most of LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional networking platform? With over 500 million members across 200 countries, it can feel overwhelming to stand out and effectively leverage this powerful tool. A professionally crafted LinkedIn profile is more than just an online resume – it’s a branding powerhouse that can open doors to opportunities and networks you never knew existed. But how do you create a profile that truly represents your professional brand and catches …
District Director’s address NOVEMBER 2023 In last month’s article, we emphasized the importance of planning and using the plan. This time, we want to address how we execute it. There are so many approaches; I will summarize them into these categories: quickest, easiest, or the soundest. Throughout my career, I have applied them all. The question is, what do you think is best to use? Different types of approach: I fell into the “quickest” approach when my focus was only on the end …
Exciting Updates for Toastmasters Brand Ambassadors Introducing the New Brand Manual Hello Toastmasters Brand Ambassadors! We hope this message finds you well and ready for some exciting news. Toastmasters International is thrilled to announce the release of the new Brand Manual, and trust us when we say, you’re going to love it! A Refreshing Design Upgrade Toastmasters International’s talented design team has been hard at work to create a brand manual that not only provides valuable guidelines but is also …
District Director’s Address This quote from Benjamin Franklin: “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail!” is very timely when we start our year. For that matter, it is invaluable in anything that we seek in life. I heard our Program Quality Director, Daisy Wei, use this quote when addressing our new leaders last year, and it was well received. It was an excellent reminder to all of us. Other district leaders referred to this passage in our …
Newly Chartered Clubs in D42 The Southern Alberta Mandarin English Club (SAME) chartered on July 1. Past District 42 Club Growth Director and current Program Quality Director, Daisy Wei, and Princeton Lau were the club sponsors and worked with club members to get the club chartered. Following the District 42 spring conference, the club had an open house which PID Richard Peck attended. Grace Wang and Joyce Allen are the club mentors now working with the club. Pembina Club also …
Embrace Excellence Awards and Incentives Await Your Club’s Triumph District 42 is rolling the red carpet to honor clubs that reach for the stars and achieve the prestigious Club Fitness Award and the inspiring 7 out of 7 Incentive. The Club Fitness Award is your golden ticket to recognition. Clubs that dazzle us by meeting three remarkable requirements before October 31, 2023, will be in for a treat. Update your TMI Roster, Conduct the “Moments of Truth” from the Successful …
Acknowledge and Add There are so many useful and excellent articles on the TI website. Here is one that I read recently on “How to Disagree Diplomatically“: It gave three tips: Depersonalize; Acknowledge and Add, and Use “I agree” cautiously. The one that resonated with me more is “Acknowledge and Add.” It refers to first listening and not shutting the other person down. You don’t necessarily agree but acknowledge the other person, then add your points. It happens all the …
SCAM ALERT! Scams are everywhere around us. With the advent of email and social media, scammers have become better and better at deceiving people. How can you avoid being a victim of email scams? 1. Don’t open emails from a person or company you don’t recognize. If you do open these emails, avoid clicking any links. 2. If you recognize the name of the sender and you open the email, check the following Are you addressed personally? If so, is …
District 42 Conference In Regina May 3-5, 2024 Dig out your party hats and dancing shoes as we prepare to celebrate Toastmasters’ 100th anniversary at the District 42 conference in Regina on May 3-5, 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned Toastmaster or just starting on your journey, this conference promises to be an exciting celebration of achievements, learning and camaraderie. Theme “As we are talking about what we want to achieve with the conference, three overall themes kept coming up. We …
HELPING CLUBS FOR SUCCESS I am so excited to be part of this year’s District Leadership team. This is a great opportunity for me to give back to this organization where leaders are made and to help our clubs succeed. One of the initiatives that was introduced in the past couple of years was the 30-60-90 days plan to help clubs stay informed on what needs to be accomplished to reduce any surprises. 30-60-90 Days Plan Round 1: Club Officer …
DTM II, Electric Boogaloo As I am nearing the end (for now) of my Toastmasters Journey it’s time to reflect. I joined Toastmasters to be like my Big Brother Bob. Bob is a professional public speaker, leadership coach and published author. I wanted to be just like him. Confident, eloquent, and charismatic. What I got out of Toastmasters was much, much more. Confidence Before Toastmasters, I was shy, and insecure and could not talk to people at a party without …
D42 at the Toastmasters International Convention Nassau, Bahamas | August 16-19, 2023 From August 16 to 19, 2023, our district’s leaders and members have gathered in the beautiful Nassau, Bahamas, as well as online to participate in the Toastmasters International Convention. This event stands as a beacon of communication excellence, bringing together speakers from across the globe for 11 captivating speaking sessions. Esteemed presenters delivered both educational and entertaining speeches, captivating an audience of nearly a thousand attendees. The annual …
Pinnacle of Achievement: My Second DTM Award- With the Grace of God Hats Off to Weekend Wordmasters Toastmasters Club for Being the Greatest Support for Achieving My Second DTM Honour How I Started This Journey First of all, I want to thank all my dear members at Weekend Word-masters Toastmasters Club, DTM Randall Edge, and DTM Laurel Wingert my mentors. Also, DTM Michele Fisher has been so supportive whenever I needed help since the day I joined the club. I …