I initially joined Toastmasters in 2018 to help a friend charter a new club (Five Rings Financial and Friends) in Virginia Beach.  Once there, I decided to try to improve my public speaking skills to help with my new career as a published author.   Within three months, the Vice President Education (VPE) quit, and I found myself taking on the position to help me and some of my fellow club members understand this new thing called Pathways.  I never imagined that four short years later, I would have earned my designation as a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), serve on the District 66 Leadership Trio as Club Growth Director, and help so many others on their Toastmasters journey.  Along the way, I have not only improved in my ability to communicate, but I have learned powerful leadership lessons as well.  I have also developed new skills such as podcast hosting and conducting interviews. 

I served in management positions for most of my previous career; however, with Toastmasters, I was able to improve upon my leadership skills.  Thus far, I served in leadership positions at the Club, Area, Division, and District levels.  In addition, I made new friends and stretched myself beyond what I thought was possible.  I also see the value of Toastmasters organization beyond District 66.  I have had the opportunity to meet fascinating people, including Toastmasters leaders at the District, Regional, and International levels, as well as Toastmasters from all walks of life.  What they all have in common is the desire to help me become a better speaker, leader, and overall, a better person.  I like to say that I came to Toastmasters for what I could get, but I stayed for what I can give. 

With Toastmasters, I can expand my horizons and dream about things that I once thought to be impossible.  I am learning not only from the materials in Pathways but also from you, my fellow Toastmasters.  I can never say thank you enough.  If anyone asks me why I would recommend joining Toastmasters, I say that it is a must if you want to find your voice so that you can accomplish your purpose.  We are all here for a reason, and Toastmasters is here to bring out the best in you and to take you beyond your perceived limitations.  As President Franklin Roosevelt said, “There is nothing to fear, but fear itself.”  There is nothing to hold you back, so go for it.  You won’t regret it.