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!
