After coming close to closure last year Drayton Valley’s Toastmasters group is enjoying a new lease of life.
“I am happy to report we are alive, actively recruiting new Toastmasters and recently received two awards,” says Leah Sanderson, past president of the Derrick Toastmasters.
The first of those awards is for public relations, the second is for Toastmaster of the Year, which was won by Sanderson herself.
“The Toastmaster of the Year Award is presented to recognize and honour that Toastmaster in District 99 who achieves and maintains the highest standard of excellence as a member of Toastmasters International,” said Kathy Pors, Division A Director. “Sanderson’s dedication, resiliency, integrity, perseverance and communication achievements are but some of the reasons she is receiving the Toastmaster of the Year Award for 2021-2022.”
Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that operates clubs worldwide for the purpose of promoting communication, public speaking and leadership. The Derrick Toastmasters have been active in Drayton Valley for 32 years. Last year declining membership left the group’s future in doubt, however Sanderson says things have since improved dramatically.
“Developing leadership skills is not an easy road. What I initially thought was the end of a 32-year charter was actually the beginning,” she says. “I faced and overcame perceived and actual obstacles. As a leader I learned to use being uncomfortable, overwhelmed, at times deflated and defeated to bust through and beyond to that one next step…Each foot forward meant another step towards saving our club and its 32 year charter.”
A large part of the turnaround is attributed to a public relations program spearheaded by Sanderson and fellow toastmaster Don Stuike. At the time Stuike was the group’s vice-president of education. He has since taken on the role of president.
The pair’s public relations achievements include recruiting and inducting new members, promoting the club within the community and conducting a number of outreach activities.
“These two model what it takes to promote a Toastmasters Club,” says Pors.
Drayton Valley’s Derrick Toastmasters meets regularly every second and fourth Wednesday at 6:45 pm to 9:15 pm using the Zoom platform. Sanderson says new members don’t need any particular skill set. Club members learn by attending free training, taking on roles within the club. There are also a number of free resources offering information, training and guidance.
“What I find most rewarding about this organization is that it delivers. Toastmasters tagline is Where Leaders are Made. This past year has brought home to me that if one does the work and overcomes perceived and actual obstacles you definitely become a confident, communicative leader,” she says.
