Meet Rachel Norris

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When was your first meeting of Toastmasters, and what was it like?
My first Toastmasters meeting was with County Communicators during the pandemic in 2020. I was so nervous but everyone was really welcoming and friendly. I had an amazing time and I was immediately hooked with Toastmasters

What was your most rewarding experience?
My most rewarding experience was organising the Evaluation Workshop. I worked with Lynne Cantor-Gayer on the organisation of the meeting and so many people attended to learn more about Evaluation. I was extremely elated to have witnessed the workshop’s success!

What would you say to new guests?
I would say a huge welcome to them and tell them all about how Toastmasters will help them progress in their speaking and leadership skills. I would also say ‘Don’t be afraid of Table Topics. It’s your time to shine, so go for it’!

What’s different at Sussex Online Speakers?
In Sussex Online Speaker, we have created a treasure map of different achievements within a Toastmasters year, such as delivering a speech, evaluating a speech or taking on different roles. It helps members keep track of what they’ve done over the year and inspire them to achieve all they can with our amazing club. Check it out in the image.

What role in Toastmaster are you inspired to do next?
I would love to be President of my club to help me grow in my leadership skills. I’d also love to be a Division Director or have a role in the District Leadership Team (Administration or PR Manager) at some point in the future

Would you like say?
I would say thank you for supporting me as Area Director last year and giving me the opportunity to become a leader in Toastmasters. I feel honoured to be a part of District 91 and I will continue to be with you all for years to come!

 

Rachel Norris
Sussex Online Speaker
Supporting District PR 24/25

Congratulations District 91!

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Dear District 91 Members,

I am thrilled to share some fantastic news! During the recent Mid-Year Training in Hyderabad, our district was recognized as the 2nd highest in Region 10 for the number of clubs achieving the President’s 20+ status. This is a tremendous achievement, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of you for your commitment to membership growth and retention.

But why stop at second place? Let’s aim for the top spot in our region by the end of March 2025! With membership renewals now open, we encourage clubs to renew 100% of their member base by 10th March. Those that achieve this milestone while maintaining 20+ members will receive a special incentive—stay tuned for details!

This incentive is in addition to the many exciting opportunities already available, including:
✅ Talk Up Toastmasters
✅ Speechcraft Booster
✅ Bring a Friend
✅ New Club Champion
✅ Trailblazer Division
…and more! Make sure to check out all the available incentives here: District 91 Incentives.

Does your organization have a Toastmasters club? If not, do you think you could help set one up before 15th April this year? Could others benefit from Toastmasters the way you have? If the answer is yes, please do not hesitate to reach out to me! My team will be happy to help you organize demo meetings and support you in establishing a sustainable club. Plus, there’s a New Club Champion incentive waiting for you!

We are now halfway through the Toastmasters year, and this is the perfect time for a renewed, concerted effort to support one another in achieving the goals we set at the start of July 2024. Let’s push forward, inspire growth, and celebrate success together!

Warm regards,

Seema Menon, DTM
D91 Club Growth Director 2024-25

Take a leap of faith. Where will your leadership journey take you?

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I am writing my newsletter article on the train on the way home from a day in London. On the train two friends are talking about a presentation one of them have to give tomorrow. I have heard how the person in question hates talking in front of crowds and wishes he could do it on line. His friend has replied and said ‘Mate, I wish we were still in lockdown and I don’t have to speak to people unless I have to’.

When I arrived at Waterloo this morning I watched a nervous young woman who had difficulty looking up from the floor ask the guard for information about the train she was looking for. And then when I got to University I was asked to take part in a small bit of filming for a promotional video. This didn’t involve me talking but did involve me having a chat with the Student Association manager who was to feature in the footage. When we got talking it turns out that she was aware that one of our clubs meet at the University and had heard of Toastmasters International. In less than 12 hours today I have seen two examples where Toastmasters could help people in every day life and then spent four hours sitting in one of our club venues. What is my message? Quite simply, that we don’t have to look very hard to find every day examples of where the Toastmasters experience can help us or indeed effect our day. I didn’t have the opportunity to speak to the two friends on the train or the person at the train station  – but I wonder what amazing transformation we could have seen if they became members. Thank you to the clubs across our district that offer our life changing program to our members week and week out.

Outside of the public speaking side of Toastmasters there of course is the leadership opportunity. The deadline for stepping up for one of our elected roles for the 2025/26 program year is fast approaching. Being a District officer is such a rewarding experience. Being a Division Director and then serving this year as your District Director has been such a wonderful and fulfilling experience and if you are in two minds as to whether to step up to serve for next year – please just take that leap of faith and do it.

Details on what you need to do to apply for a Division Director or trio role can be found here – https://d91toastmasters.org.uk/members/leadership/elective-roles-2025-2026/

If you have any questions about this process please either contact myself or Andy Hammond our District Leadership Committee Chair?

Oh by the way – have you bought your conference ticket yet……….. its going to be incredible!

Yours in service

Steve Vear
District Director 2024/2025

 

 

All here! Reaching for excellence!

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A lot has been happening in PQD world including attending District Leadership Training where we plan and refocus our attention on the remainder of the Toastmaster’s year.  I hope you will also be inspired by the Club Officer Training Sessions in your Areas as we strive to have excellent clubs.

 

What is Club Excellence and Why Should you Care
Club Excellence in Toastmasters is about consistently creating high-quality member experiences, fostering growth, and developing leadership and communication skills. It aligns perfectly with the Toastmasters Club Mission:

“We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.”

But why should you, as a member, care?  Because Club Excellence directly impacts your journey. When a club operates at its best, it provides a vibrant, engaging environment where you feel motivated, supported, and inspired. High-quality meetings, effective mentorship, and constructive feedback allows you to build your skills faster and more effectively.

Additionally, being part of an excellent club creates a sense of community and shared success. You’ll be surrounded by like-minded individuals striving to grow, which encourages your own commitment and progress. A thriving club also ensures that every moment you invest in Toastmasters offers you maximum value, helping you achieve the confidence and capabilities to excel in all areas of life.

 

Why Submitting Education Awards Matters
Submitting education awards is a critical part of achieving Club Excellence. Every completed award is a testament to your personal growth and dedication to self-improvement. It also contributes to the club’s success in the Distinguished Club Program (DCP), which helps measure the overall health and effectiveness of the club.

By submitting your education awards, you’re not only celebrating your own milestones but also inspiring other members to pursue their goals. These achievements showcase the value of Toastmasters to prospective members and reinforce the club’s culture of learning and achievement.

Remember, your growth and accomplishments are at the heart of what makes a club thrive. Let’s work together to reach new heights – one award, one meeting, and one member at a time!

 

International Speech and Evaluation Contests 2025

In case you missed the recent webinar, here is the link to the recording to discover all the essential information that you should know: https://youtu.be/UYSN_HBUDiE?si=OYVTj6zUm16Mrlv9

  

The District 91 Conference – 2-4 May 2025 – The Stage is Yours

Why You Should Attend the District Conference – Especially If You’ve Never Been
Have you ever wondered what lies beyond your club meetings? The District Conference is your opportunity to experience the wider world of Toastmasters in an exciting, inspiring, and welcoming environment. Whether you’re early in your journey or well into your career, if you’ve never attended before, here’s why this could be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed:

  1. Be Inspired Like Never Before
    Picture a room buzzing with enthusiastic Toastmasters, all eager to learn, share, and support one another. The energy is electric, and you’ll leave feeling motivated and ready to tackle your goals with renewed confidence.
  2. Learn from Exceptional Speakers
    Experience keynotes and interactive workshops led by dynamic professionals. These sessions are packed with practical tips to boost your public speaking, leadership, and personal growth—skills that will benefit you in any stage of your career or life.
  3. Witness Jaw-Dropping Speech Contests
    If you’ve never seen a district-level speech contest, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. The creativity, storytelling, and passion on display are truly inspiring, sparking fresh ideas and encouraging you to aim higher in your own speeches.
  4. Build a Network That Matters
    Connect with like-minded individuals from all walks of life, from students to seasoned professionals. Whether you’re looking for fresh perspectives, career advice, or simply someone who shares your goals, the relationships you build here can be both meaningful and long-lasting.
  5. Expand Your Horizons
    The District Conference gives you a chance to see the bigger picture of Toastmasters. You’ll gain insight into how the organisation works and discover opportunities to grow, contribute, and make a real impact.

Don’t miss out – this could be the event that transforms your experience!  You can pay for your ticket in full or in 3 instalments – link is here: https://conference.d91toastmasters.org.uk

 

Debbie Williams
Program Quality Director 2024-2025

 

 

A Year of Growth and Celebration: Our Plans for 2025 in District 91

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My dear toastmasters,

As the calendar turns to 2025, it’s a moment for us to reflect on our accomplishments and set our sights on exciting new horizons. Each year, our journey as Toastmasters is enriched by the goals we pursue, the connections we forge, and the personal growth we experience. I want to take a moment to celebrate the spirit of our Toastmasters community. 

From launching new clubs to helping members achieve their personal and professional goals, each one of you has played a vital role in shaping our success. Thank you very much for your dedication and passion!

We will continue our efforts in 2025 with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

1. Expanding Our Community: By chartering new clubs and welcoming new members, we will bring the benefits of Toastmasters to even more people across our region. 

2. Strengthening Our Community: Let’s foster environments where each of us feels supported and empowered to achieve our goals.

3. Celebrating Success: With a focus on quality meetings, engaging learning experiences and recognising achievements, we will champion excellence and pride in being part of District 91. 

As you set your personal and club goals for the year, know that you are not alone. Our district leadership team is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s dream boldly, work collaboratively, and celebrate every milestone along the journey. Wishing you and your loved ones a fantastic New Year filled with growth, connection and happiness!

 

Warm regards,

 
Seema Menon, DTM
D91 Club Growth Director 2024-25