Meet A Toastmaster: Steve Birch
Triple Crown & Pathfinder Awards Winner
Steve Birch has two home clubs and he is the founder of them both. The two clubs are Malvern Speakers which was founded in May 2013 and Worcester Speakers which started in November 2019. They are within 10 miles of each other so Steve doesn’t have to travel too far and doesn’t have to choose which one is his “favourite child”.
How do you feel about achieving so much?
It’s not what I achieve, though I am very proud of what I have achieved. It’s seeing others grow and see the benefits of Toastmasters in speaking and leadership skills whilst watching their self-confidence soar. There is no secret, it is a tried and tested formula. And if you want it, then it is there waiting for you within the kindest and most supportive environment anyone could imagine.
I am currently working on my third path, Effective Coaching, having completed Presentation Mastery and Innovative Planning. A diverse set of choices but I try to improve and learn the skill sets I feel need honing.
What is your secret to winning the award?
I don’t go out with the target of completing a path or get the awards they bring. They just happen if you put the time, effort and enthusiasm in whatever you do. I feel very strongly that the more experienced Toastmasters have an ideal opportunity to pass their skills, knowledge and ambitions to the up and coming new members as they are the lifeblood of any club. It is too easy to sit back and rest on your laurels and I certainly get a great deal of satisfaction from seeing our club members grow along with the many Speechcraft and Youth Leadership programmes I have given both here and in Tanzania.
When I found out I had been awarded District Toastmaster of the Year I was flabbergasted. My first question was why? I’m only doing what I love. The old adage of giving is better than receiving comes to the fore with so many Toastmasters I have the pleasure of knowing.
What is your next challenge?
My next challenges are very simple. They are twofold. Firstly, ensure that both Malvern and Worcester Speakers grow and become stronger in this time of turmoil in the aftermath of Covid-19. Secondly, expand both clubs’ access to the local schools and businesses with our outreach of Youth Leadership and Speechcraft programmes.
