Jeevan George

A Journey of Camaraderie, Support, and Saying Yes – The Story of a London Cardinal!  

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It’s all about Camaraderie and Support…and saying Yes!

Joining London Cardinals

It was 2004 and I was looking to join a Toastmasters club in London. I had the good fortune to go to a ‘Demo’ meeting of London Cardinals, co-founded by the legendary Nigel and Gilly Cutts. They were setting up a new club as London Corinthians was ‘Bursting’ with members.

– As well as the Cutts, the Cookes, the Craddocks, the Sellmans and a young chap called Simon Bucknall became Founder Members.

I am still a proud member of London Cardinals, the ‘Oldest Swinger in Town! It’s changed of course but the implicit values of Nigel and Gilly are ever present – Having Quality meetings and speeches, Supporting each other, and Truly Caring for each other.

Every great opportunity begins with a Yes!

I smiled when I read District Director, Debbie Williams’ article in the September Newsletter. I remember saying ‘Yes!’ for various roles –

  • Secretary, VPE, President at London Cardinals.
  • Area Director B6, Division B ‘Governor’ (Now Director and in those days, Division B was all of London’s 40 odd clubs!)

Each role was exhilarating and I was  lucky to have support, such as my Division Governor mentor, Andy O’Sullivan!…….After those roles, I took a rest!

Look beyond your club

Little did any of us know that fellow London Cardinals founder member Simon Bucknall would be a 3 time International Speech Contest   Champion, the  first time being 2006 when we were part of District 71,  which was  The British Isles  –  more than 300 clubs!

I went to my 1st  International Convention in Washington D.C. with son Michael,  to support Simon, along with other ‘Cardinalians’ – What a wonderful experience…….

My 2nd International Convention was 2014, Kuala Lumpur.  It’s my dear wife Judy’s home town, and it was  a ‘No brainer’ to go. How lucky to be  in the auditorium to see one of the greatest speeches in the World Championship of Public Speaking  ‘I see something’ by Dananjaya Hettiararchi.  He did an online workshop for London Cardinals on a Sunday afternoon in 2024 – What a delightful chap!

In Kuala Lumpur, I  hooked up with the incoming District 91 inaugural District Leadership Team, as I felt it was time for me to give something back. Hilary Briggs, District Director, asked me to be Chair District Alignment Committee, a  role I held for 5 years. I  enjoyed the role, liaising with District Leadership and attending District Conferences and of course, always being supported in the role.

My 3rd  International Convention in 2017 was perhaps the most memorable. Simon was District International Speech Contest Champion for the 3rd  time.   The International Convention was in Vancouver and I went  with Judy and our daughter Sarah.  Vancouver is a lovely place and even better, Simon came 2nd in the World Championship! The best moment ever in Toastmasters!

So proud

London Cardinals was so successful, regularly 50-60 membership  until around 2016……and then  we started leaking members for no apparent reason. When COVID hit, we were struggling at 20ish  members. I am so proud of our leaders since, such as Zeph Fanton, Mo Al Bayati, Marijana Bosniak, Joel Morales, Lai Yee and Preety Gheera. Through their leadership, we survived  COVID, with inspiring online meetings and have   thrived since as an innovative  hybrid club (which enables me to retain my membership!)

And so to today

Last year, I volunteered to support a corporate club, FTI Consulting, in their autumn contests.  It’s where I first met Debbie Williams, who was also supporting them.

Over Christmas, Debbie invited me to chair the District Humorous Speech Contest at the District Conference in May. It was so much fun,  attending a District Conference once more, chairing the Contest and meeting up with Toastmaster pals, such as Seema Menon, Jean Gamester, Vanessa King and  Lynne Gayer.

Soon after Seema, now Programme Quality Director, invited me to be District Chief Judge for 2025/2026. I wasn’t sure what it entailed but  I followed the mantra of just say ‘Yes!

What are my reflections over 21 years?

  1. It’s about Camaraderie.

I reflect so fondly on the friendships old and new,  from 2004 to today…..and tomorrow!

  1. It’s about Support

I could not have delivered any of the Toastmaster roles without support and  I strive to give support as best I can.

  1. It’s about saying ‘Yes!’

By saying yes, I have had wonderful experiences, I have  been  to places I could only have dreamt of and my Life has been enriched……… Try it some time!

Why Now’s the Best Time to Grow Your Club

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Hello our wonderful members of District 91.  October maybe getting colder but our clubs are hotting up.

Firstly, a massive welcome to our newest club, Toastmasters at the BBC. 

A huge congratulations to the President, John Cameron-Mcintosh, the committee and all the members for bringing this club to fruition. Plus a big thank you to all the Toastmasters that supported the charter process, this wouldn’t have happened without you. If you have an idea for a new club either in your community or at your place of work, please do let us know.  club.growth.director@d91toastmasters.org.uk

Congratulations also to our Smedley Club Winners

  • 1st London Toastmasters
  • Bristol Central Speakers
  • Central London Toastmasters
  • City Of London Toastmasters Club
  • Holborn Speakers
  • London Business School Public Speaking Club
  • London Victorians
  • Nothavon Speakers Toastmasters Club
  • North Oxford Speakers
  • Riverside Communicators
  • UK Speakers and Leaders Toastmasters

This achievement shows how committed and hardworking your club members are. It also shows the great work you’re doing to grow and include more people in your community. By welcoming new members and different ideas, your club becomes even stronger and more rewarding for everyone.

Congratulations on this well-earned recognition! May your clubs continue to thrive and inspire others in the Toastmasters family.

Celebrating their first Anniversary

  • Arthur J Gallagher London Toastmasters
  • LSEG

Whats coming up

Over the next few months we will be running ‘How to Grow your Club’ series which started with the interactive session on ‘Mastering Social Media’ on 26th October run by the talented Allen Paul. If you were unable to attend you can watch the recording here:

One of the tips shared was to add members ‘My Why’ to the clubs social media posts.  Why you joined and why you stay at Toastmasters.  Here is ‘My Why’

and we want to hear yours.  It takes just 30 seconds to do a quick video, share it with your club and please also send it to Allen Paul for the Districts Social Media, allen@district91toastmasters.org

You can also grow your club by running a Speech craft session. TOP TIP from The Speakers of Croydon Toastmasters Club – Run a Speechcraft session at least once a year.  They have been doing it for over 10 years and every time they have 8 to 10 new members join, proof that Speechcraft works!. To understand more about what a Speechcraft session involves and how you can help read the article below by Speechcraft expert Emmanuel Karamagi.  There will also be a drop-in panel session coming soon.

What is Speechcraft?

Speechcraft is a short-term, practical public speaking program developed by Toastmasters International. It is delivered by experienced members, who teach the fundamentals of communication, public speaking, and leadership to non-members in a supportive Toastmasters environment. Delivered in digital form as a Speechcraft Bundle, the program allows up to five non-members to participate in structured sessions over four, six, or eight weeks, guided by experienced Toastmasters. Although the focus is on skill development, the ultimate goal of Speechcraft is to convert participants into active club members. In this sense, it is a powerful membership growth tool for clubs.

How to Run a Speechcraft Program and Its Benefits

  1. The Club’s Role

The idea of hosting a Speechcraft program usually starts at a club leadership meeting, where the executive committee discusses membership-building strategies. Once approved, the club decides the program’s structure (duration,format, etc.) and appoints a Speechcraft Coordinator, who becomes the key driver of the initiative in general and the equivalent of the Toastmaster of the day in each session.

Benefits at this stage include:

  • Involving the entire club leadership in a meaningful, strategic decision-making
  • Giving officers practical ways to contribute: for example:
  • Treasurer: Advises on and manages participant fees.
  • VP Public Relations: Promotes the program across various platforms such as social media and other communication channels thus attracting participants to the program.
  • VP Education: Designs the agenda, oversees quality, and ensures alignment with Speechcraft requirements.
  • The President: Inspires participation and ensures the club is showcased positively.

Each club officer plays a role in ensuring the success of the program, which builds teamwork and promotes shared ownership of club growth. Members can help out with these activities too.

  1. Role of the Speechcraft Coordinator

Once appointed, the Speechcraft Coordinator:

  • Establishes communication channels (WhatsApp, email, etc.) between the participants and the program key helpers such as guides.
  • Recruits Speechcraft Guides (ideally one per participant) from the club to act as mentors.
  • Manages logistics, leads sessions, and keeps the program on track.

Benefits of being a Speechcraft Coordinator include:

  • Enhances leadership and communication skills.
  • Increases confidence in managing teams and projects.
  • Proven track record of serving as a stepping-stone to other leadership roles within Toastmasters.
  1. The Membership’s Role

Not every member will serve in an official capacity, but every member has a part to play:

  • By attending sessions, supportive numbers provide a better learning experience.
  • Volunteering in roles such as Timer, Evaluator, or Table Topics Master hence participants have a front seat experience of how roles in a regular meeting are performed.
  • Being present to showcase the club’s culture, this is very important because a-would-be member buys not only into the benefits of participating in Speechcraft but the also comradely of the club.

Benefits to club members:

  • Increases member engagement and retention.
  • Strengthens the sense of community and ownership.
  • Members often take pride in contributing to others’ growth — a deeply fulfilling experience.

Past members in those clubs where Speechcraft is often used as a membership growth tool usually return to toastmasters, either to the host club or another, drawn back by the impact of positive, growth-oriented experiences like Speechcraft.

Conclusion

Speechcraft is far more than a membership-building tool. When well planned and executed, it becomes:

  • A platform for member participation
  • A training ground for future leaders thus a succession tool
  • A unifier that strengthens club cohesion

Each participant, guide, and observer is actively invested in creating a supportive environment and that mutual investment often leads to the long-term health and vitality of the club. I cannot recommend this program enough to any club that wants. Emmanuel Karamagi has been a Toastmaster since 2015, a member of The Speakers of Croydon Toastmasters Club, and has served in various leadership roles at both club and district level. Currently, serving as the Speechcraft Lead on the Club Growth Director’s Team for the 2025–2026 term and happy to help any club and memberwho wants to conduct a speechcraft. He can be contacted on emmanuelkaramagi@gmail.com

With gratitude,

Lynne Gayor, DTM
Club Growth Director, District 91

PQD October Updates: Contests, Connections and Celebrations

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My dear Toastmasters,

As October marks Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s take a moment to check in with ourselves and with each other. Sometimes, a simple “How are you really doing?” can make a world of difference. At Toastmasters, we’re more than just speakers and leaders, we’re a community that listens, supports and lifts one another. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish; it’s how we sustain the energy to grow and guide others. You matter and your well being is important. After months of planning, it’s now time to see those plans come to life as contests, trainings and celebrations unfold across our District.

Contest Season in Full Swing

Our club, area and division contests are in full motion and what a joy it’s been to watch members bring their humour, creativity and confidence to the stage! If you’re organizing or participating, make sure you visit the District 91 Contest Resources page for all the materials you need, from checklists to scripts. And if any ambiguity arises, remember to refer to the latest Toastmasters International Contest Rulebook to keep everything fair, fun and by the book.

Pathways: Exciting Enhancements Ahead

With the exciting changes to Pathways announced by Toastmasters International, this is the perfect time for the 16% of our members who haven’t yet started to explore the program. The enhanced education experience offers new opportunities to strengthen your communication, develop leadership skills, and achieve your personal goals.
It’s never too late to begin, your next milestone could be just one speech away!

Celebrating Our October Triple Crown Winners

Congratulations to our Triple Crown achievers for October, members who completed three or more education awards this year:

  • Karen Bailey, Worcester Speakers
  • Lydia McDowall, The Speakers of Croydon
  • Massimo Guadagnino, Liberty Speakers Club & Beckenham Communicators
  • Nathan Holmes, South West Speakers
  • Peter Francis, Tube Talk Toastmasters

Your pins will be awarded at Flow with the Fall in November, well done for leading the way!

Ditch the Nerves Podcast – Episode 1 Live

We’re thrilled to announce that the District 91 “Ditch the Nerves” podcast has officially launched! In the first episode, Morag Mathieson, DTM, Past International President (2023–24), speaks about “The Magic of Inclusive Leadership” — sharing inspiring insights on confidence, connection, and the true essence of leadership that uplifts others.
Watch it now: Episode 1 with Morag Mathieson 

Episode 2 was released on 25th October’25. We will be releasing two episodes every month. Please share your feedback and suggestions on who you’d like to see interviewed on the podcast by writing to us at podcast@d91toastmasters.org.uk. 

Toastmasters has always been a safe space for members to try new things, experiment and grow into confident communicators and inspiring leaders and this podcast is another step in that journey. 

Mentor Buddy Programme – Mentors Needed

Over 60 members have registered as mentees, now we’re calling on experienced toastmasters to step up as mentors. If you’ve ever been guided by someone who believed in you, now’s your chance to be that spark for others. Your experience could be the key that unlocks someone’s growth.

Looking Ahead – Follow Through and Flourish

Corporate Club Officer Training in November – Learn from Global Leaders!

Inviting all Corporate Club Officers to join us in November for an inspiring Corporate Club Officer Training Series featuring top global Toastmasters leaders including Aletta Rochat, Gauri Seshadri, Jean Gamester, Morag Mathieson, Pat Johnson, and Lilian Shaftacola.

Gain practical tools to:

  • Reignite engagement and retain members
  • Build strong leadership pipelines
  • Elevate your club’s visibility and value within your organisation

Multiple sessions available across early and mid-November.

Featured Speakers:
– Aletta Rochat, DTM – Toastmasters International President 2025–26
– Gauri Seshadri, DTM – Toastmasters First Vice President 2025–26
– Jean Gamester, DTM – Toastmasters Second Vice President 2025–26
– Morag Mathieson, DTM – Past International President 2023–24
– Pat Johnson, DTM – Past International President 2010–2011, Author of A Handbook for Building and Sustaining Vibrant Toastmaster Programs in Corporations
– Lilian Shaftacola, DTM – Toastmasters Region 10 Advisor

The second round of Club Officer Training runs from November 1 to February 28. It’s the perfect opportunity for club officers to refresh their skills, share experiences, and continue leading with confidence and purpose.

Check the D91 calendar for COTs starting in November.

Flow with the Fall- District Contests Mid Year Event on 23 November 2025

We’re counting down to our District Half-Year Celebration: “Flow with the Fall” a day dedicated to connections, celebrations and inspiration.

Venue: London South Bank University
Date: Sunday, 23 November 2025

Get ready for two dynamic, interactive keynotes, the District Humorous Speech and Table Topics Contest finals and an atmosphere buzzing with learning and laughter.

This is your chance to connect with fellow Toastmasters from across the District, cheer for our finalists and celebrate the milestones we’ve achieved together.

Register now and be part of the experience: Flow with the Fall Event

Get involved:

  • Support the Conference Team [https://d91toastmasters.org.uk/members/d91-conference/]

District Q1 Incentive Winners Announced! 

And finally, we’re excited to announce the winners of our District Quarterly Incentives for Q1 (July – September 2025)!

Club Group Incentive Tiers Club Name Tier Points Total Club Points
Pinnacle Clubs Pathways Pioneers Sustainable Speakers Online 410 430
Pinnacle Clubs Pathways Pioneers London Olympians Speakers Toastmasters Club 230 260
Pinnacle Clubs Pathways Pioneers Hamwic Speakers 130 170
Pinnacle Clubs Leadership Innovators West London Speakers Club 50 145
Pinnacle Clubs Leadership Innovators Hamwic Speakers 20 170
Pinnacle Clubs Leadership Innovators London Victorians 20 120
Pinnacle Clubs Excellence Champions West London Speakers Club 35 145
Pinnacle Clubs Excellence Champions London Olympians Speakers Toastmasters Club 30 260
Pinnacle Clubs Excellence Champions Sustainable Speakers Online 20 430
Powerhouse Clubs Pathways Pioneers City Limits Speakers 380 400
Powerhouse Clubs Pathways Pioneers Voice of Wales Speakers Club 160 210
Powerhouse Clubs Pathways Pioneers Worthing Speakers 150 195
Powerhouse Clubs Leadership Innovators Lloyds Banking Group Toastmasters 55 140
Powerhouse Clubs Leadership Innovators Voice of Wales Speakers Club 20 210
Powerhouse Clubs Leadership Innovators London Cardinals 20 170
Powerhouse Clubs Excellence Champions Worthing Speakers 45 195
Powerhouse Clubs Excellence Champions Lloyds Banking Group Toastmasters 45 140
Powerhouse Clubs Excellence Champions Voice of Wales Speakers Club 30 210
Rising Stars Pathways Pioneers Casterbridge Speakers 170 200
Rising Stars Pathways Pioneers db Toastmasters – Canary Wharf 140 160
Rising Stars Pathways Pioneers Experience French 140 160
Rising Stars Leadership Innovators Tube Talk Toastmasters 20 160
Rising Stars Leadership Innovators Northavon Speakers Toastmasters Club 20 110
Rising Stars Leadership Innovators UK Speakers and Leaders Toastmasters 20 70
Rising Stars Excellence Champions Tube Talk Toastmasters 40 160
Rising Stars Excellence Champions Casterbridge Speakers 30 200
Rising Stars Excellence Champions Northavon Speakers Toastmasters Club 30 110
Spark Clubs Pathways Pioneers Salisbury Speakers 140 190
Spark Clubs Pathways Pioneers Reading Verizon Toastmasters 70 90
Spark Clubs Pathways Pioneers Verizon EMEA Online Toastmasters Club 70 90
Spark Clubs Leadership Innovators Salisbury Speakers 20 190
Spark Clubs Leadership Innovators Woodford Green Speakers 20 100
Spark Clubs Leadership Innovators Spinnaker Speakers 20 40
Spark Clubs Excellence Champions Salisbury Speakers 30 190
Spark Clubs Excellence Champions Woodford Green Speakers 30 100
Spark Clubs Excellence Champions Tottenham Speakers Club 30 90

A huge congratulations to all our achievers, your dedication and drive have truly set the tone for a fantastic year ahead. This is just the beginning, with three more quarters to go, there are plenty of opportunities for everyone to shine!

Winners will receive an email shortly with details on how to claim their incentives.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Let’s keep the momentum going and make the rest of the year even more inspiring

 

As we move through this next quarter, let’s follow through on the plans we set in Q1. Stay focused on your goals and even if the path shifts, keep moving toward your purpose. Remember to pause, check in with yourself and those around you, and celebrate every small win along the way.

Together, let’s keep connecting, caring and celebrating growth – the Toastmasters way.

With gratitude,

Seema Menon, DTM
Program Quality Director, District 91

 

How Division C Is Building Bridges Between Corporate Clubs

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