Allen Paul

Kevin Harrington: February’s Area Director of the Month

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For February, the answer is clear.

Kevin Harrington has been recognized as Area Director of the Month, not just for delivering results, but for how he supports members, strengthens clubs, and promotes Toastmasters beyond the organization.

Kevin’s impact spans across multiple areas of district growth and member development:

  • Delivering practical workshops and drop-in sessions to support clubs

  • Mentoring members to achieve success, including a District contest winner

  • Promoting Toastmasters externally through media coverage

  • Driving strong educational progress across clubs

  • Supporting clubs that are rebuilding and growing

Together, these efforts reflect leadership that goes beyond responsibility and focuses on real impact.

What Does an Area Director Do?

For those new to Toastmasters, Kevin explains it simply:

“Think of an Area Director as a coach and coordinator for several clubs.”

Someone who supports club leaders, strengthens meetings, and connects clubs to the wider organization.

It Started with a Simple “Yes”

Kevin’s journey into the role was not a carefully mapped plan:

“Kevin, you’d be really good at this. It won’t take much time.”

His response?

“Saying yes too often gets me into all sorts of trouble.”

But that one decision led to meaningful impact across his area.

A Leadership Approach Built on One Principle

Kevin brings a clear philosophy to everything he does:

Focus on the member.

As a marketer by profession, his thinking is simple:

  • Keep it practical

  • Keep it relevant

  • Put the member first

“Toastmasters is defined by its members.”

From workshops to training sessions, his goal has always been the same: help members today while building stronger clubs for tomorrow.

Thinking Beyond the Next Meeting

One of Kevin’s key strengths is long-term thinking.

Rather than focusing only on immediate outcomes, he challenges clubs to think ahead. What we do today should strengthen the club next year, not just this month.

This mindset has helped create more sustainable growth across his area.

Turning Success into Stories

One of Kevin’s standout contributions has been mentoring a member who went on to win a District contest and then taking that success beyond the club.

As he puts it:

“Toastmasters is a mystery to most people.”

The structure is strong. The learning is powerful. But what truly connects with people are stories.

By sharing real success stories, Kevin has helped bring Toastmasters to a wider audience and inspire others to get involved.

So how do you get a Toastmasters story into the media?

Kevin shares a simple but effective approach:

“Local papers have very few staff, but they still need content. The key is to write in the style they need so they can copy and paste.”

Here are his practical tips:

  • Write like a journalist
    Headline: four words
    Subheading: ten words
    First paragraph: summarise the full story

  • Focus on human stories
    Achievement, effort, struggle, and success

  • Avoid generic updates
    Instead, tell stories people care about

  • Match the publication style
    Study the paper and align with its tone and length

  • Use strong images
    Avoid plain headshots and use action-based visuals

  • Make it easy for editors
    Proofread carefully, get a second review, and send it ready to publish

“It’s about thinking like the editor, understanding your audience and their language.”

Supporting Clubs That Are Growing

Kevin’s leadership also shows in how he supports clubs that are rebuilding.

His approach is simple:

“Give them time. Give them recognition.”

Not pressure. Because growth is something you support, not force.

Leadership Advice: Just Say Yes

For those considering stepping into leadership roles, Kevin’s advice is clear:

“Just say yes.”

Even while launching a new business, he continues to contribute as an Area Director.

His belief is that leadership is flexible, you do not need perfect conditions, and impact comes from action.

“In a small but important way, being an Area Director gives you the opportunity to help members achieve their ambitions.”

Final Thought

Kevin’s journey shows that leadership does not start with a perfect plan.

It starts with a decision.

Say yes. Take action. Create impact.

Congratulations to Kevin Harrington
A well-deserved recognition for his leadership, initiative, and contribution to District 91.

Meet Barbara Saph: The Person Who Helps Shape Our District

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If you’ve ever wondered how Toastmasters clubs are organised across the district, who decides which club sits where, and how everything fits together, there’s a good chance Barbara Saph has had something to do with it.

But behind the role of District Alignment Chair is a story that many members will relate to.

Barbara’s Toastmasters journey didn’t start with confidence, quite the opposite.

Introduced to Toastmasters in 2011 (with a little encouragement from friends), she admits:

“For those who are really nervous about public speaking, take heart, things can sometimes get worse before they get better.”

In fact, the nerves were strong enough that she stepped away for a while… only to return in 2014 with a new mindset – Jump in and participate fully.

Since then, she has taken on multiple club officer roles, district roles, mentoring, and leadership positions across several clubs including Hallmark Speakers and Salisbury Online Speakers.

What Keeps Her Going?

For Barbara, it comes down to one thing:

Curiosity

“I enjoy watching the evolution and personal development of members as they discover new opportunities in their lives.”

That curiosity combined with a love for organization, naturally led her into leadership roles.

(And perhaps, she admits, sometimes more leadership than intended 😄)

Life Outside Toastmasters

When she’s not aligning clubs and supporting the district, Barbara enjoys:

  • Art and craft exhibitions
  • Reading science fiction, fantasy, and mystery
  • Jigsaw puzzles (self-confessed addict!)
  • Gardening and the occasional painting session

And while she no longer has pets, she still enjoys borrowing her daughter’s black Labrador and has a lifelong interest in horses.

So… What Does a District Alignment Chair Do?

In simple terms, Barbara helps ensure that:

  • Clubs are placed in Areas and Divisions where they can thrive
  • Area Directors can effectively support their clubs
  • The district structure aligns with Toastmasters International policies

Each year, this means reviewing:

  • Club locations and proximity
  • Membership levels
  • New clubs forming
  • Clubs closing or struggling

And yes sometimes making difficult and emotional decisions when clubs need to be moved.

The Balancing Act Behind the Scenes

One of the biggest challenges?

Making everything fit.

  • Each Area must have 4–6 clubs
  • Clubs need collaboration opportunities
  • Geography, online clubs, and corporate clubs all play a role

And as Barbara puts it:

“We can’t always make everyone happy.”

So what is alignment really like?

Barbara’s answer:

✔ A puzzle
✔ A game of chess
✔ A bit like organising a very large family dinner

…and sometimes:

“Trying to fix something with one piece that doesn’t seem to fit anywhere.”

Thinking About District Leadership?

Barbara’s advice is simple and honest:

  • Start with club officer roles (VPE, VPM, President)
  • Attend training, contests, and conferences
  • Talk to people already in the roles
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help

And most importantly:

“Everyone starts somewhere, no one knows everything.”

Barbara’s journey is a reminder that even the most experienced leaders once started with nerves, uncertainty, and a first step.

And sometimes, all it takes is returning… and deciding to fully take part.

Cardiff Toastmasters Leads the Way in AI technology

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At Cardiff Toastmasters, member Chris Poole has been quietly building something remarkable, a fully integrated meeting management system designed specifically for Toastmasters clubs. From real-time speech transcription and performance analytics to synchronised officer dashboards and immersive speaker introductions, his software is reimagining how meetings can run seamlessly, professionally, and with a touch of theatrical flair. The software uses AI to transcribe speeches live, tracks meeting timing automatically, and stores detailed performance data across meetings. A recent innovation means that speakers can now receive a personalised link showing their timing, filler words, and full transcript, no account required.

Cardiff Toastmasters has been using piloting the use of this software since autumn 2025, and it is transforming how meetings are managed and experienced. Chris didn’t set out simply to build another tool. He set out to solve a real problem. Like many Toastmasters, he saw how much coordination happens behind the scenes of every meeting, agenda flow, timing, evaluations, filler word tracking, engagement, and follow-up. He began experimenting with a range of AI tools and technologies, exploring how they could work together to support officers, speakers, and guests in real time.

 

What started as experimentation quickly became innovation. This web-based meeting management system designed specifically for Toastmasters meetings based on the Cardiff experience, integrating real-time analytics, speech transcription, performance tracking, and synchronised role-based interfaces for meeting officers. And this is only the beginning. It’s a reminder that Toastmasters is not just a place where we practise skills. It is a place where ideas are tested, developed, and brought to life.

Cardiff Toastmasters recently showcased this software during a WWE-themed meeting, creating an immersive and high-energy experience. With music, smooth transitions, and precise coordination, the meeting demonstrated how technology can support creative themed sessions while keeping everything running seamlessly.  Imagine coming on stage to Darth Vader’s Imperial March:

Variety, creativity, and meaningful experiences are what keep members inspired and guests returning. Thanks to innovators like Chris Poole, Cardiff Toastmasters is showing how imagination, technology, and the Toastmasters spirit can come together to create something truly memorable.

And this is only the beginning.

If your club is curious about how technology and themed meeting design can enhance the meeting experience, Chris would be delighted to share more as the tool continues its development journey.

Division L: Leadership in Action · People at the Centre · Together We Lead

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Stretching across five Areas and 22 clubs, Division L is one of the most dynamic and diverse divisions in District 91. From global corporate clubs in Canary Wharf to hybrid and community clubs across London, Division L reflects the full spectrum of the Toastmasters experience.

But geography is not what defines us.

What defines Division L is Leadership.

Leadership that listens.
Leadership that steps forward when clubs need support.
Leadership that believes people come first — always.

Who We Are

Division L is led by Elena Bella, Division L Director, supported by a team of committed and experienced Area Directors who bring professionalism, passion, and purpose to their roles.

Together, the team embodies the Toastmasters values of Integrity, Respect, Service, and Excellence — not as words on a page, but as actions lived daily.

Area L16 – Adalgisa Mazzone

Corporate Leadership in Action

  • Google UK Speakers Club
  • London Business School Public Speaking Club
  • PMI UK Toastmasters Club
  • Society Speakers Club

Adalgisa is a professional who brings clarity, structure, and discipline to her leadership. She was the first Area Director in Division L to complete all her visits, delivering high-quality, thoughtful reports that truly support club officers in improving their performance.

Her approach is focused and strategic: assess, support, elevate.

Area L27 – Muriel Teisseire

Growth Through Commitment

  • Barking Toastmasters
  • db Toastmasters – Canary Wharf
  • Romford Speakers
  • Woodford Green Speakers

Muriel stepped into her role when it became vacant — and delivered impact from day one. Under her leadership, Barking Toastmasters is now one of only two clubs in District 91 with 9 DCP points, already achieving President’s Distinguished status, with more milestones expected before year-end.

Muriel demonstrates that leadership is not about title — it’s about ownership.

Area L23 – Rajan Jesuraj

Leadership with Depth and Purpose

  • Canary Wharf Communicators
  • HSBC
  • London Toastmasters
  • MLP London Bridge Speakers
  • Moody’s London

Rajan brings strong transferable skills and executive presence to his role. This year, he spearheaded one of Division L’s most impactful initiatives:
“Beyond the Podium: The Hidden Gift of Emotional Well-being in Toastmasters.”

This workshop explored belonging, empathy, psychological safety, and growth mindset — reminding us that Toastmasters is not just about speaking; it is about human development.

Area L56 – Sarah Ndebele

Energy, Positivity, and Resilience

  • Manor House Speakers
  • Northern Lights Speakers Club
  • Tottenham Speakers Club
  • Winchmore Hill Speakers

Sarah is known across the division for her positivity and unwavering support of clubs facing challenges. When membership dips or engagement slows, she shows up first — encouraging, guiding, and helping clubs regain momentum.

Her leadership is grounded in belief — belief in people, in progress, and in possibility.

Area L47 – Currently Vacant

  • EBRD
  • JPMC London–Glasgow TM
  • London Public Speakers
  • Master Speakers
  • Wharf Speakers

Even where formal leadership roles are vacant, Division L works together as a team to ensure that no club is left unsupported. This reflects the division’s commitment to service and continuity.

Our Leadership Focus This Year

Division L has aligned around a simple but powerful principle:

Support clubs in a way that works for them.

Our priorities include:

  • Strengthening Club Officer Training
  • Supporting a vibrant contest season
  • Encouraging sustainable membership renewals
  • Developing and mentoring future leaders

Two mentors have been assigned to clubs facing challenges, reinforcing our belief that leadership is about standing beside others — not directing from a distance.

Our Workshops: Developing Leaders, Not Just Speakers

Division L has invested in meaningful learning experiences that go beyond technical speaking skills.

Beyond the Podium Workshop

An in-person, reflective session focused on emotional wellbeing, belonging, and growth.

Sculpt Your Story – 6 Secrets to Storytelling Success

Delivered by Dan Magill, a two-time UK representative at the World Championship of Public Speaking, 3-time District 91 International Speech Champion, and winner of multiple Moth Storytelling Slams.

Every attendee received a complimentary copy of Dan’s book — because leadership is about creating tangible value.

Challenges — and Leadership Response

Like every division, we face challenges:

  • Membership fluctuations
  • Officer workload
  • Balancing corporate and community needs

Our response is not reactive — it is proactive:

  • Regular check-ins
  • Transparent conversations
  • Shared best practices
  • Leadership visibility

We do not ignore challenges.
We address them together.

Looking Ahead

As we move toward the end of the Toastmasters year, Division L remains focused on:

  • Finishing strong in contests and renewals
  • Supporting smooth officer transitions
  • Identifying next year’s leaders
  • Strengthening collaboration across Areas

Leadership continuity is not an afterthought — it is a responsibility.

A Call to All Toastmasters

Division L’s success does not belong to its Director or Area Directors.

It belongs to:

  • The President who runs the meeting
  • The VPE who tracks Pathways
  • The VPM who welcomes guests
  • The member who shows up and says “yes” to a role

Leadership in Toastmasters is not a title — it is participation.

If you have ever considered:

  • Taking on a club officer role
  • Stepping into an Area role
  • Organising a workshop
  • Mentoring a new member

Now is the time.

Division L is here to support you — but the strength of the division rests with each and every one of you.

Together, we lead.
Together, we grow.
Together, we finish strong.

44 Years Stong: Celebrating Thame Speakers

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Thame Speakers proudly celebrated its 44th year, marking over four decades of growth, learning, and fellowship. The year was made especially memorable by a brilliant Tall Tales contest, filled with humour and creativity, and convincingly won by John Morris, whose performance delighted everyone present.

The celebrations were enhanced by visits from valued district guests, including District Director Debbie Williams, Finance Manager Guler Cortis and Conference Director Pearl Cadogan, whose support and engagement were greatly appreciated by the club.

A true highlight of the celebrations was the gala dinner, featuring a delicious three-course meal with drinks, all expertly organised and cooked by Thame member Alison Morris. The evening brought members and guests together in a warm, celebratory atmosphere and was a wonderful example of the talent and generosity within Thame Speakers.

As the club moves forward into its 44th year, Thame Speakers continues to celebrate achievement, creativity, and community—values that have sustained it for more than four decades