Allen Paul

Spotlight on Leadership: Helyn Ashford, Division J Director

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In this month’s spotlight, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Helyn Ashford, the charismatic Division J Director, to discuss her Toastmasters journey, leadership style, and her vision for the division. Here’s what she shared:

Allen Paul: Helyn, can you share a bit about your background and what initially led you to join Toastmasters?

Helyn Ashford: Absolutely, Allen. I have always been a nervous, anxious person with low self-confidence. A few friends in Texas advised me of a club that helped with confidence through public speaking. The prospect of this scared the hell out of me however I could see how it may help me. After a couple of failed attempts to join a meeting, due to my nerves, I finally joined online during covid. I never thought TM would have given me so many new skills and led me down a leadership path that I never envisaged when I joined.

Allen Paul: That’s inspiring! Speaking of memorable experiences, do you have any particularly humorous moments from your Toastmasters journey that you could share?

Helyn Ashford: Oh, definitely!I’ll never forget attending my first area contest. One speaker who was taking part in the humorous contest gave a speech on a clown that couldn’t stop breaking wind! I found it hilarious and really showed me that speeches didn’t have to be serious and could be on anything you want it to be.

Allen Paul: How would you describe your leadership style, and if you could compare it to a movie genre, what would it be?

Helyn Ashford: Well my ADs may say it’s like a horror film! I would like to say a rom com as we all get on with each other like family. We aren’t just Toastmasters but friends after all. I love my division and really try to encourage and empower every member. I also love to laugh and think it’s important we enjoy ourselves cause what is the point in doing it if we don’t!

Allen Paul: What’s the most unusual or creative idea a team member has brought to the table under your leadership?

Helyn Ashford: I always love an alternative meeting. Lately I have had the opportunity to participate in a wedding workshop. The creativity of the sessions with speeches, poems and raps was amazing to see and experience. Everybody dressed the part and really encouraged each other. I’d recommend it to anyone.

Allen Paul: Before we dive deeper into your division’s plans, what’s one quirky thing you always do before a Toastmasters meeting?

Helyn Ashford: I always make sure I take a bathroom break before any meeting, especially DEC as you never know when you will be able to go next.

Allen Paul: Away from Toastmasters, what are some of your hobbies or activities?

Helyn Ashford: When I’m not doing TM stuff, I really like walking and spend most of my time doing coastal walks. I enjoy the gym…sometimes. I love spending time with family and friends, enjoying a good cocktail and a lovely meal. I’m a foodie at heart! I do like a gig or two as well, spending lots of time, and expense, on country and rock music tickets

Allen Paul: If you were stuck on a desert island, which three Toastmasters resources would you want with you?

Helyn Ashford: Firstly a copy of Robert’s Rules; that will help me fall asleep at night. I’d also like a copy of the book ‘Surrounded by Idiots’ so I can learn more about human interaction and personalities just in case I ever make it home. Then finally a copy of a classic like Moby Dick to read to my new best friend, Wilson!

Allen Paul: Looking ahead, what are some exciting plans or events on the horizon for Division J?

Helyn Ashford: I have big plans for Div J. This year my biggest aim is to get those clubs who are struggling up to at least a distinguished standard. I’d love for Red Dragon TM to charter this year too. I also want to put wheels in motion for a second area in South Wales, although that goal may take longer than a year! We are also planning a division contest weekend!!! Where members can celebrate and network all weekend long

Allen Paul: Lastly, what advice would you give to anyone considering taking on a role as a division director?

Helyn Ashford: My advice for anyone thinking of doing the divisional role in the future would be just do it! It is such a learning opportunity and it really tests your leadership skills in a completely different way than Area Director. Make sure you have a selection of ADs you can rely on and who will grab their role with both hands. Communication with them is key. Talk all the time. Run ideas together and don’t dictate them. Remember to check in with Ads too as their role can be so full on. Don’t be afraid to question DLT too; you may come up with something that they never thought of!

Here’s Helyn Ashford, our esteemed Division J Director, demonstrating her unique approach to ‘conflict resolution’ with Area Director Alex. In Toastmasters, even our most ‘intense’ leadership training sessions are all in good fun!

Celebrating District Success – An IPDD’s view of the Centenary Convention

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The Hall of Fame event is worth attending the Toastmasters International convention in its own right and this year was no exception. For many it is the event of the year and for others only the opening ceremony and parade of flags surpasses it. It is one of the many highlights of the convention. 

The atmosphere was electric, the energy was off the scale and the volume was turned up to 11 no 15! As Immediate Past District Director (IPDD) I had the pleasure to attend and collect the recognition plaques and certificates as we became a Presidents Distinguished District last year for the first time in eight years. 

With around 1,500 members in a huge room all cheering each Districts success, the party atmosphere had already kicked in by the time it was District 91 turn to receive its awards. I stood on the side of the stage waiting for our que to walk on with Steve and Mo from last years trio in close attendance, followed by Debbie and Seema who are in this year’s trio and about 20 other D91 members including three Past District Directors who made the long journey to Anaheim, California to celebrate the Centenary Anniversary of Toastmasters International. 

Walking on stage to receive the district recognition awards I became aware that the only other times I had a similar feeling was when I received my certificates and degrees at art college and university. The mix of relief, on successfully completing a demanding yet worthwhile task, the excitement in being recognised for achieving a goal and the feeling of elation you have when hundreds of people want to congratulate you is something I have not felt that often before. Making for an intoxicating mix of emotions. 

I am delighted that both Steve and Mo also were able to receive awards for Program Quality and Club Growth respectively for their achievements last year. 

After the awards are made everyone takes photos and celebrities long into the night. It is most definitely I night I will remember for a long time. I’ll also remember that whist I, Steve and Mo were honoured with the awards, we could not have achieved what we did without the support and devotion on the other District Leadership Team members, Val, Janet, Nikita, Susan, Aayushi, the Division and Area Directors, club officers and members who contributed by either leading their division, area or club and members completing pathway levels. 

I would like to thank you all for your support in the 2023/24 Toastmasters International program year. 

 

Photo credits:  

  • Maud Nale, used with permission, Diane and members of D91 receiving a Presidents Distinguished Plaque from Morag Matterson DTM, International President 2023/24 
  • Richard E Peck DTM Past International President, used with permission Diane receiving a Club Strength Award from Morag Matterson DTM, International President 2023/24 
  • Diane Richardson, Mo with his Certificate of recognition and Club Growth Trophy 

From Idea to Impact: The Journey of Founding LSEG London Toastmasters Club

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I joined LSEG in January 2023. I was so full of gratitude for receiving a new job in such a great company that I revived my old idea to start a Toastmasters club in my workplace.  

During my first year I was testing the waters by telling everyone I met in the office about Toastmasters. I discovered that Toastmasters was a perfect small talk topic, a great answer to “What are your plans for the weekend?” question and an ideal excuse for not staying in the office after 6pm. During my first year at the company I identified three groups of colleagues that could potentially be interested to join a club as members: women’s network, Business Analysts network, and recent graduates.  

A year has gone by, but the club still was in the idea phase. My fellow Toastmasters were enquiring if I chartered the club yet. But I was puzzled about my next steps.  

At some point in January 2024, in one of the women’s network’s catch-ups I heard that there was someone willing to launch a Toastmasters club at LSEG. I grabbed the opportunity with no hesitation nor delay. I was there to help! It turned out that Mani Janakiraman, Senior Global Product Manager and enthusiastic public speaker, secured some budget for the club earlier. That meant I suddenly found a supporter and a co-sponsor. It was so wonderful! 

We had our Demo meeting on the 1st of February 2024. My fellow Toastmasters were so supportive and helped to run it to the highest standard. I would like to thank Mo Dawodu, then Club Growth Director, Scott Baker, then City of London Toastmasters Club President, Marc Lottig, VP Education from the City Limits club in the Area C2 which I was leading at that point, Martin Madden, whose St Paul’s Speakers club is located just round the corner from LSEG’s London office, and Greg Smith, a fellow Area C5 Director at that time. 

The Demo meeting generated a lot of interest, and we started running our meetings every two weeks on Thursdays. We were regularly promoting the club via MS Teams team, Viva Engage, London communities and networks, and on LinkedIn. Mani has a wide network, so he routed a lot of people to the club. Every active participant was inviting their colleagues. The club has got some visibility among senior management, too. 

It was not easy to reach a cherished number of 20 members. A few people expressed their interest but never joined any meeting. A few people joined once or twice but decided it wasn’t a priority. Some joined as members and dropped along the way due to other commitments.  

Despite all challenges, LSEG London Toastmasters club chartered on the 5th August 2024. 

Our regular meeting invite now goes to about hundred people. We have a core of 10-12 members who attend almost every time and a very dedicated club committee (Mani Janakiraman, Maurizio Morabito, Alam Chowdhury).  

What’s next? This year our District 91 has a vision to be Distinguished or better. Division C which I lead has the same vision. LSEG London Toastmasters should be Distinguished or better in 2024/25. I believe in this club so much that I have no doubt we will achieve our goal together. 

 

Olga Galaiko 

LSEG London Toastmasters Club President 2024/25  

Division C Director 2024/25 

 

Trailblazing Women in Toastmasters: Empowering Voices and Leading Change

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As we celebrate 100 years since Toastmasters International was founded by Ralph C Smedley, it is interesting to note that women were not allowed to join initially and for nearly five decades, it remained a men-only organization. This changed in 1973, when women were officially welcomed into Toastmasters as full members, forever altering its course. 

Today, women are not just participants but key drivers of the organization’s growth, consistently reaching new milestones and breaking barriers. Some of us from District 91 were lucky to witness the first woman of Indian origin, Radhi Spear DTM, become the International President for 2024-25.  

   

Ripple Effect 

In 1985, Helen Blanchard became the first woman to serve as International President, paving the way for female leaders to follow in her footsteps. Her achievement sends a clear message: it’s possible. 

Another milestone came in 2008 when LaShunda Rundles became the first woman of colour to win the prestigious World Championship of Public Speaking. This Role Model effect motivated other women to participate and we witnessed an all women winning team in World Championships of Public Speaking in 2018, 2023 and 2024. 

Diversity and Representation 

One of the greatest strengths of Toastmasters in District 91 is the diversity of its members. Women leaders from various backgrounds, cultures, professions bring their unique voices to the organization and share stories as well as insights that might otherwise go unheard. By creating an inclusive space for all members, regardless of gender, race, or background, Toastmasters continues to evolve into a more representative and forward-thinking organization. Be the champion, be the sponsor and bring a friend to your club showing the world just how powerful their voices can be. Together we Rise.  

 

At your service, 

Seema Menon DTM 

Club Growth Director 

A Message from Your Program Quality Director: Charting a Path to Success in the New Toastmasters Year

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As we embark on a new Toastmasters program year, it’s the perfect moment for reflection and goal setting. This is an ideal time to conduct a “Moments of Truth” (MOT) session—a tool that helps clubs assess their strengths and identify areas for improvement. By engaging in this structured evaluation, you can discover the best aspects of your club and pinpoint opportunities for growth. My focus this month will be on education, and how we can all use these insights to drive our personal and collective success. 

 

Harnessing the Power of Education 

Our vibrant learning community offers a structured curriculum with clear milestones, providing us with the tools to measure our progress and set ambitious goals for the months ahead. This period of renewal presents the perfect opportunity to assess our Toastmasters journey so far and to map out new objectives that will propel us to even greater heights. Remember, we’re in it together, supporting each other every step of the way. 

One of the first steps you can take is to confirm your enrolment in Pathways with your VP of Education or Secretary. If you’re already enrolled, challenge yourself to complete at least one level of your path this year. Pathways offers a wide range of competencies, from public speaking and leadership to strategic planning and project management. The online platform is designed for flexibility, allowing you to progress at your own pace and fit learning into your schedule. By participating in various meeting roles, you can refine your skills and gain practical experience in a supportive environment. 

In It Together: The Importance of Training 

Training plays a crucial role in our growth as both individuals and club members. It equips us with the knowledge and tools necessary to excel in our roles, ensuring that we can effectively support our clubs and fellow members. The knowledge and skills gained through training are not just for personal development—they are essential to the health and success of our clubs. I would like to extend my gratitude to all the club officers who have recently attended training. Your dedication to honing your leadership skills is invaluable to the success of your clubs and our district. 

 

The Importance of Submitting an Education Award 

Submitting an education award is not only a personal milestone but also a significant contribution to your club’s success. Here’s why it matters: 

  • It recognizes your hard work and progress, boosting your confidence and encouraging further development. 
  • Each education award submitted helps your club meet its Distinguished Club Program (DCP) goals, which are crucial for the club’s overall health and recognition. 
  • Your achievements can inspire other members to pursue their goals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and support. 
  • Helping your club achieve Distinguished status enhances its reputation, attracting new members and retaining current ones. 
  • For VPE’s there is a special webinar on Sunday 1st September providing top tips on submitting education awards. 

 

Upcoming Webinars 

This month, we have several webinars lined up, detailed in our District Calendar of Events. Topics include: 

  • Submitting Pathways Education Awards 
  • Membership Renewals 
  • Contest Masterclass – (how to run a successful contest) 
  • Speechcraft 

…. And more! 

 

All webinars take place on Sundays at 5pm.  I encourage you to check the D91 calendar for the full program of events and take advantage of these learning opportunities. 

 

Contests 

In January 2024 the Toastmasters International Board of Directors announced that all contests from the Area Level must be held in person only, removing the previous exceptions to allow a remote option, which has been in place since the COVID-19 pandemic.   

 

Club contests can be held in any format (e.g. online, hybrid, in-person).  This decision only affects contests from Area level upwards. 

While insisting that all contests must be in person, they have given the option to run an online speech contest, which can run all the way to the District level. However, the board did not increase the number of contests available, meaning that we can still only run a total of 4 English speaking contests. 

A consultation process started on 16th July where Area Directors were asked to consult their clubs for feedback on whether we keep the same contests or remove the Humorous Speech contest to accommodate an online contest.   

The District Executive Committee (consisting of the District Leadership Team, Division and Area Directors) will be making a decision regarding the contests that will run during this program year on 1st September 2024, which will take into consideration the feedback received during the consultation. We will then write to all clubs shortly after this date. 

 

Could You Be Our Next Conference Director? 

Are you curious about what it takes to be a Conference Director? In our exclusive interview with five former Conference Directors, we explore the challenges and rewards of this role. If you’re interested in submitting a bid to host our next conference or would like more information, please get in touch. 

 

 

As we commence this new Toastmasters year, let’s seize the opportunity to reflect on our journey and set ambitious goals. Whether you’re exploring Pathways for the first time or aiming to achieve new educational milestones, now is the time to take proactive steps towards personal and professional growth. Each step you take not only enhances your skills but also contributes to the success and vibrancy of your club. Let’s support each other in reaching new heights and making this year our most successful yet. Remember, we’re in it together! 

 

Warm regards, 

 

Debbie Williams 

Program Quality Director, 2024-2025 

 

P.S. I’ve just enrolled in a new Pathway! If you have too, let me know—let’s embark on this journey together!  I’m looking for an accountability buddy!