Allen Paul

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! 

 

Reflections on Leadership and Growth: A Recap of Our District’s Journey at the Toastmasters International Convention

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What a few weeks it has been!  

 As well as working hard on the District Success plan (our strategy) and budget, the ‘trio’ (being myself, Debbie and Seema) have just returned with a group of other members from District 91 from the Toastmasters International Convention in California. Before the event, as part of our roles we attended two days of District Leader training helping us to be able to serve you in the best possible way with new knowledge, skills and the chance to network with peers and meet district leaders from across the globe. This picture was taken during the kick off event, and if you look closely, you will even see a certain now Past International Director lurking in the background looking out for us. 

Convention 

The International Convention in Anaheim, which was attended by circa 1,400 Toastmasters was not only a reminder to me about the true global reach of our organisation but also how very special Dr Smedley’s creation was, and just how many people Toastmasters continue to help across the world. During the event I was given the honour of carrying the flag of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland during the parade of the flags at the opening ceremony. It is proof indeed that no matter our individual differences and beliefs, members can come together from hundreds of different countries around the world to celebrate each other and to help represent Toastmasters International as one.  

 

One of the highlights of the convention is of course the final of the World Championship of Public Speaking, where the remaining 8 members who have navigated through the Club, Area, Division, District and Regional stages took to the stage with a chance to become the World Champion. If you get a chance to do look up on YouTube and watch the winning speech by Luisa Montalvo, the new world champion to be truly inspired. A word of warning for us all though is that there were two time disqualifications this year. Never underestimate therefore the importance of those lights at the back of your club room when you are doing your speeches! 

The Plus One Pledge 

During the convention, Debbie, Seema and I together with board members and fellow leaders across the World signed the Plus One Pledge. This is a membership building campaign where each member is encouraged to grow the membership of our clubs by just one member. Just imagine for a moment how big even our own District would become if each of us were able to do that. Remembering that every journey starts with that one step therefore – who will be that guest that you are going to bring a long and help convert to a member? More to follow on our plus one pledges in the coming months! 

District Council 

On 15th September our first of two District Council meetings will take place following the District Executive Committee meeting on 1st September. The District Council is a crucial part of the governance of Toastmasters and I would encourage every president and Vice President of Education to register for attendance in order to ensure the District can conduct its business and continue to serve you, our members in the best possible ways. Any questions about the District Council should be directed to your Area or Division Director or myself. 

And finally 

I spoke at the start of my update about how busy the last few weeks have been for everyone charged with leading District 91. I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of the District Leadership Team, Area and Division Directors for serving our members in such a dedicated and thoughtful manner. I would like to pay particular tribute to our Finance Manager Stuart Marshall for his jedi like skills in relation to the budget and our Administration Manager Janet Alkema, Area Director Rob Dewing and Public Relations Manager, Allen Paul, for all their efforts in getting our IT configuration refreshed to allow us to communicate with you in the most effective way possible. Thank you all for making me proud to lead such an amazing group of people. 

 

Yours in service 

Steve Vear MBE DTM
District Director