Program Quality Director

We are making incredible strides in our District’s educational achievements, and I couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of you. Your dedication to personal and professional growth is truly inspiring.

So far, we have accomplished:
✔ 320 Level 1 completions – a strong start for so many members.
✔ 193 Level 2 completions – building confidence and momentum.
✔ 134 Level 3 completions – sharpening advanced speaking skills.
✔ 104 Level 4 completions – demonstrating leadership in action.
✔ 57 Level 5 completions – true mastery in communication and leadership.
✔ 29 Pathways Mentoring completions – fostering a culture of support.
✔ 5 Distinguished Toastmasters (DTMs) – the pinnacle of achievement.

Our Distinguished Toastmasters include:

• Pedro Casillas, DTM
• Alistair J. Driscoll, DTM
• David Lynch, DTM
• Tim D. Patmore, DTM
• Christine H. Wallach, DTM

Many congratulations.

Your Progress Matters – Keep Moving Forward!
I know that the education programme can feel challenging at times, but every project you complete is a step towards becoming a more confident communicator and leader. If you have completed a level but haven’t submitted it yet, now is the time. Your achievements not only help you grow but also contributes to your club’s and our District’s success.

If you are feeling stuck or unsure about your next steps, reach out to your mentor, your club officers, or fellow members. There is always support available, and every challenge you overcome brings you closer to your goals. Let’s celebrate every milestone, big or small, and inspire each other to keep progressing.

Be Part of the Excitement: Attend Division Contests
We still have five more Division Contests ahead, where the best speakers in our District will compete for a spot at the District 91 Conference. All Division Contest dates can be found in the District 91 Calendar: https://d91toastmasters.org.uk/members/news/calendar/, so be sure to check it and come along to support and be inspired!

District Conference : 2^nd – 4^th May, Radisson Red, Heathrow London
The District Conference is the highlight of the year, taking place from 2-4 May. This is your opportunity to connect with fellow Toastmasters, learn from outstanding speakers, and celebrate excellence in public speaking and leadership. The District Council Meeting will be taking place during the Conference on Saturday 3^rd May.  Book your tickets asap so you do not miss out: https://conference.d91toastmasters.org.uk

Let’s keep pushing forward, setting goals, and achieving milestones together.

See you at the contests and conference!

Yours in service,

Debbie Williams
Program Quality Director, 2024-2025
District 91

As we wrap up another successful round of Club Officer Training, I want to take a moment to applaud all the dedicated leaders who have invested their time and energy into growing their clubs. Your commitment to excellence ensures that our members receive the best experience possible. However, training is just the first step – now it’s time to put that knowledge into action.

One of the most important ways to drive club success is by ensuring that education awards are submitted promptly. Every completed Pathways level or achievement contributes to your club’s progress and helps move it towards Distinguished status or higher. Recognising members for their hard work not only motivates them but also strengthens your club’s overall performance. Let’s celebrate our members’ accomplishments and make sure they count.

With training completed and education goals in focus, it’s time to turn our attention to another exciting part of the Toastmasters year – speech contests!

Contests offer a fantastic opportunity for members to challenge themselves, showcase their speaking skills, and grow in confidence. Whether you are competing, judging, or cheering from the audience, your support makes a difference. As the competition heats up, we look forward to seeing members rally behind their Division champions at the District 91 Conference, 2-4 May at the Radisson Red Heathrow in London, where they will compete for the ultimate title of becoming District champions. Let’s show up in full force to encourage them.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there as the conference is more than just a gathering; it’s a chance to connect, be inspired, and take your Toastmasters journey to the next level. In addition to the District Contests, expect powerful keynote speakers, invaluable learning sessions, and a celebration of everything we have accomplished together. Whether you are looking to sharpen your speaking skills, grow as a leader, or simply enjoy an inspiring event, this is an occasion you will not want to miss.

Now is the time to get involved. Download the official conference Zoom background here and purchase your tickets, (there is also an option to pay in instalments), and spread the word!

Let’s fill the room and make this the most exciting and memorable event of the year.

Do not miss out, register today and be part of something extraordinary – further details are here: https://conference.d91toastmasters.org.uk

The Stage is Yours – see you there!

 

Yours in service
Debbie Williams, DTM
Program Quality Director 2024-2025
District 91

 

 

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

 

 

As we welcome the new year, there’s plenty to anticipate and prepare for in 2025.

Here’s what’s coming up:

Club Officer Training 

Effective leadership is key to a successful club, and our Club Officer Training sessions are here to help you grow as a leader. If you’re a club officer, don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your skills and knowledge.  Please check the district 91calendar for upcoming training or contact your Area Director should you have any questions. Calendar of Events – Toastmasters UK South – District 91 Members

For corporate club officers who couldn’t attend the November sessions, or could only attend in part, a final training opportunity will be available in February. Be sure to take advantage of these to equip yourself for a productive year ahead.

Further details below:

 

The Road to Distinguished

Is your club on track to achieve Distinguished status this year? The Distinguished Club Programme is a valuable roadmap for club success, but it takes consistent effort and teamwork to stay on course. Now is the perfect time to review your progress, align your goals, and ensure you’re meeting the needs of your members. Let’s work together to make 2025 a standout year for your club!

International Speech and Evaluation Contests 

The excitement of contest season is just around the corner! Start preparing for this year’s International Speech and Evaluation Contests. Whether you’re competing or supporting your club’s contestants, it’s a chance to showcase and celebrate public speaking excellence.

To kick off the season, join our District Chief Judge, Arnaud Sartre’s webinar on Sunday, 19th January 2025. Gain valuable insights and guidance to ensure your contest experience is both rewarding and successful.  Further details below:

https://tinyurl.com/club-cont 

 

Conference, 2-4 May 2025 

Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated 2025 District 91 Conference taking place from 2-4 May 2025 at the Radisson Red Heathrow. It’s set to be an inspiring weekend of learning, networking, and celebration.

Tickets go on sale later in January, so be sure to secure yours early! Additionally, the “call for speakers” is now open!  Don’t miss your chance to share your expertise with a wider audience. Follow this link to learn more and apply: https://forms.gle/wLRSC3KFM5Z9YpXx8.

 

Let’s make 2025 a year of growth, achievement, and community. We look forward to seeing you at these events!

Yours in service,

Debbie Williams, DTM
Program Quality Director 2024-2025
District 91

What a fantastic month it has been! A huge congratulations to all the winners of the Humorous Speech and Table Topics Division Contests. Your success is an inspiration! A special shoutout goes to all participants who took on the challenge and achieved personal growth, your efforts and courage are commendable. To all the functionaries and helpers who made these contests run seamlessly, thank you for your dedication and teamwork. We look forward to seeing all winners at the District contests taking place at the Distict 91 Conference.

 

Conference Update

I am thrilled to introduce the D91 Conference Director for 2 – 4 May 2025 is Bolu Olubajo. Bolu is a member of Holborn Speakers and looks forward to formulating and leading the conference team for a successful conference. Find out further details about Bolu and see the announcement of the conference venue here.

 

Club Officer Training

We were treated to an incredible lineup of speakers at our recent Corporate Club Officer Training. From exploring Pathways to learning how to maintain momentum and stay focused, the event was packed with actionable insights. A heartfelt thank you to Christine Lennon DTM, Marc Lottig DTM, Andrew Tsuro DTM, Pat Johnson DTM PIP, and Morag Mathison DTM, for sharing their expertise and facilitating these outstanding sessions.

If you missed out, don’t worry, further training opportunities for all other club officers will be available now through to the end of February 2025. Don’t miss your chance to learn and grow.

Incentives We’re delighted to announce the winners of the Club Success Plan incentive! This initiative encouraged clubs that were not distinguished last year to submit a club success plan for this year. Congratulations to the following winners:

• 07814710 LSBU
• 05042742 Deutsche Bank Toastmasters London
• 07084351 Worcester Speakers
• 03105854 Malvern Speakers
• 07850144 Verizon EMEA Online

 

Your dedication to planning for success sets a strong foundation for achieving your goals this year.

Here’s to a joyful and successful festive season—wishing you a very Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year, and continued success in the months ahead!

 

Warm regards

Debbie Williams

Program Quality Director 2024-2025