Have these infamous words ever passed your lips…
“Who wants to listen to me?”
If yes,
You are not alone.
Sir Isaac Newton once famously wrote “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants”.
This year, District 86 wants to support our members in achieving their educational goals. It is our vision that every new member in the District is paired up with a mentor, and every existing member has the opportunity to gain access to a mentor – if they wish.
Why is this important? Let’s set the scene by introducing the Co-Mentorship Chairs for the 2023-24 Toastmasters year:
DTM Teresa Carolan –
22 years ago, I struggled to speak in front of an audience. Thankfully, I found a Mentor who totally changed my life as a speaker. Her name is Marilyn and she said, “Teresa, you have so much experience and skills. As a speaker, you are an empowering when you speak to others in their struggles to achieve their goals. Be strong!”
I’m Teresa Carolan and as your Mentorship Co-Chair for D86, this year, we have set the goal for you to find the mentor who can support you and get you where you want to go.
In 2001, I started my Toastmaster journey with Bluewater Toastmasters in Owen Sound. In 2006, I received my DTM. Over the years, I have been involved in leadership with many clubs. Today, I’m an active member in 3 clubs and continue to support other Toastmasters in their journey.
DTM Gillian Sheldon –
I remember the words vividly “Gillian, you need to get better at presenting – or you need to find a new job”; that was the tough love given to me by my boss in 2015. Challenge accepted! Enter Toastmasters.
Upon walking into Skyway Toastmasters a week after that meeting – I’ve never looked back. Paired with a mentor for my first few speeches, I saw the value of getting guidance and feedback on taking these first steps.
Fast forward to today, where I’ve taken on some of the leadership aspects of Toastmasters – different informal mentors have helped me, and continue too, through this journey.
A member of four clubs, due to the learning I get out of each one, I am a true believer in mentorship and looking to others for support and guidance.
As your Co-Chairs, we commit to supporting you – the member – through your Toastmasters journey and presenting you with Mentorship opportunities and information throughout the year.
Please feel free to reach out to us if you wish to become a Mentor to a fellow member or want to participate in some of our District workshops.
We are here to amplify your success!
Teresa & Gillian, D86 Co-Mentorship Chairs 2023-2024
Photo Credit: Prateek Katyal on Unsplash
Created by Gillian Sheldon, Grimsby Toastmasters and Teresa Carolan, Top Drawer Toastmasters