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.
Last Updated on 18th February 2026 by Allen Paul