International Officer and Director Candidates

The declared International Officer and Director candidates for 2024-2025 are:

International Officer Candidates

Stefano McGhee, DTM

Candidate for International President-Elect

Why do you want to serve?

I believe that leveraging our members to become a bigger part of leading our organization is key to our survival. The next generation of leaders in the world needs to come from Toastmasters. Our core values and leadership development programs are what the world needs from their leaders to be better.

Learn more about Stefano

 

Gauri Seshadri, DTM

Candidate for First Vice President

Why do you want to serve?

Fostering progressive, meaningful experiences for our members and delivering exceptional value to them is key to Toastmasters’ continued success. My vision is that our programs remain impactful and globally relevant, empowering members across generations and leading us toward a thriving future.

Learn more about Gauri

 

Jean Gamester, DTM

Candidate for Second Vice President

Why do you want to serve?

Toastmasters is where we ignite our unique potential. I want us to emerge from our recent difficult times even stronger than before. I believe my skills in directing change, navigating complex relationships and situations, and my focus on growth of the individual can help us achieve those goals.

Learn more about Jean

 

Helen He, DTM

Candidate for Second Vice President

Why do you want to serve?

Toastmasters ignited my passion: Love people. Build people. Love building people. As International Officer, I'll spread this globally. We've seen lives transformed—mine included—through powerful communication. Let's empower everyone to discover their potential. Join me in inspiring future leaders!

Learn more about Helen

 

Elmer Hill, DTM

Candidate for Second Vice President

Why do you want to serve?

Toastmasters is at an exciting crossroad. The opportunity to be a part of a leadership team ensuring that all future initiatives create an excellent experience for members and clubs is compelling. There can be no greater honor than to be part of the team ushering Toastmasters into its 2nd 100 years.

Learn more about Elmer

 

Melissa McGavick, DTM

Candidate for Second Vice President

Why do you want to serve?

By dedicating my time and talents to role of 2nd VP of Toastmasters, my work will support thousands of leaders to lead and communicate confidently. With our core values at the center of their decisions, I believe these leaders will make a better world.

Learn more about Melissa

 

Kimberly Myers, DTM

Candidate for Second Vice President

Why do you want to serve?

Moving into the second century of existence as a service led organization, building a focused path to success is critical to our members and member clubs. I would like to be part of the team lighting the path that enables more people to build confidence, speaking skills and a global perspective.

Learn more about Kimberly

 

Monnica Rose, DTM

Candidate for Second Vice President

Why do you want to serve?

As we embrace an innovation-driven future, staying connected with members is vital. We must continue advancing and delivering real-time communication to ensure members feel supported in their growth. I am ready to introduce solutions that drive innovation and impactful change for Toastmasters.

Learn more about Monnica

 

International Director Candidates

Michael Bown, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 1

Why do you want to serve?

We are a vibrant global community dedicated to self-improvement and connection. My experiences supporting members on different continents have shown me its incredible diversity and impact. As we celebrate 100 years of change, I’m eager to collaborate and grow on the journey toward the next century!

Learn more about Michael

 

Abhijeet Joshi, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 1

Why do you want to serve?

Serving as an ID matters to me as it offers the chance to be a part of shaping Toastmasters future in an evolving world. My tech background & experiences provide a global perspective & skills to keep the organization adaptable & relevant, empowering members to thrive in communication and leadership.

Learn more about Abhijeet

 

Baxter Kent, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 1

Why do you want to serve?

I want to serve as International Director to lead through service. My experience in IT management and project oversight has shown me the power of collaboration and empowerment. I’m dedicated to enhancing our organization and delivering value to our members while ensuring fiscal responsibility.

Learn more about Baxter

 

Wafae Owen, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 3

Why do you want to serve?

I am passionate about helping members grow. Using my leadership experience, strategic thinking, and love for collaboration, I am ready to drive initiatives that empower our members. It is all about making a lasting difference and ensuring Toastmasters continues to thrive in this ever-changing world.

Learn more about Wafae

 

Chris Raneri, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 3

Why do you want to serve?

I appreciate the skills Toastmasters has given me an opportunity to learn. I want to serve to be a part of the solution with building a new tomorrow for our current and future members. Together we can grow this organization to new heights

Learn more about Chris

 

David Storey, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 3

Why do you want to serve?

First, to give back to the organization that has given me so very much by being part of a team that can influence the future of Toastmasters. Second, as a long-term benefit, to work with other Past International Leaders in our District to foster and develop future leaders for the organization.

Learn more about David

 

David Woodcock, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 3

Why do you want to serve?

To serve on the Toastmasters Board is an opportunity to continue my passionate service to our greatest asset: our members. Developing policies, procedures and setting a stable financial course as a team reflects my work background and long-standing service to the community and Toastmasters.

Learn more about David

 

Joel Dawson, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 5

Why do you want to serve?

In the past 11 years, I've achieved more as an entrepreneur, and in toastmasters than I could've ever imagined. It's only appropriate that I continue giving back to the organization that has given me so much. I feel I have a responsibility to continue developing leaders and being an ambassador.

Learn more about Joel

 

Andrew Horberry, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 5

Why do you want to serve?

I'm energised by Toastmasters' ability to transform lives, but we face a challenging competitive environment. To create an even more compelling experience for current and future members, I offer my international marketing experience, analytical skills, time, and a deep commitment to team working.

Learn more about Andrew

 

Jing Humphreys, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 5

Why do you want to serve?

Serving on the Board allows me to share my knowledge and experience, consider the members’ needs, and work to create policies that will further enhance and support our mission and vision for the next 100 years. I am looking forward to this challenge and opportunity!

Learn more about Jing

 

Ramona Baylor, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 7

Why do you want to serve?

I am motivated by the transformational changes in individuals who find their voice while successfully utilizing our program. I'm committed to enhancing communication at all levels to achieve excellence. I want to work alongside brilliant leaders to collaborate on plans that impact our members.

Learn more about Ramona

 

Shirley Daley, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 7

Why do you want to serve?

I desire to serve as an International Director because this next step represents the spirit of Toastmasters which is growth and development of individuals. This is my true story, having served with excellence at various levels in the organization locally and regionally. The future beckons me.

Learn more about Shirley

 

Maurice Fuller, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 7

Why do you want to serve?

As a member of the board, I believe I can offer valuable insights and innovative solutions that align with our organization’s goals. My background in strategic planning and governance equips me to navigate complex challenges and identify opportunities for growth and development.

Learn more about Maurice

 

Vickie Goodman, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 7

Why do you want to serve?

I have a passion for leadership development and am skilled at creating and communicating procedures and structure that others can understand and follow. I want to help with planning and process development by the Board and look forward to broadening the Toastmasters leadership footprint worldwide.

Learn more about Vickie

 

Victoria Noethling, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 7

Why do you want to serve?

I have experienced the results by actively participating as a member of Toastmasters. It truly has changed lives. Communication is not a nice to have, but rather vital to building a successful career and life. I want to be part of the evolution of leadership that is so needed in our world today.

Learn more about Victoria

 

Andy Min Seok Kim, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 9

Why do you want to serve?

Having experienced the transformative power of Toastmasters, I am committed to expanding growth opportunities and using my experience to support the organization. I aim to help build an inclusive, supportive environment that empowers individuals from all backgrounds to develop, connect, and succeed.

Learn more about Andy

 

Liana Kwan, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 9

Why do you want to serve?

Having experienced the transformative power of Toastmasters, I am inspired to serve and empower others to become confident, impactful leaders. By fostering innovation and global connections, I aim to ensure our organization thrives and evolves to meet the needs of current and future generations.

Learn more about Liana

 

Katrina Letargo, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 9

Why do you want to serve?

Having personally experienced the growth and transformation through Toastmasters, I strongly support leadership development, bring a global perspective, advocate for diversity and inclusion in communication skills and to help shape the future of the organization.

Learn more about Katrina

 

Kathy Toh, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 9

Why do you want to serve?

I am eager to give back to an organization that has profoundly shaped my personal and professional growth. My passion lies in empowering others develop their communication and leadership skills. I aim to strengthen Toastmasters' global impact and ensure its lasting success for future generations.

Learn more about Kathy

 

Hani Nur Zaihanirah Zaini, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 9

Why do you want to serve?

I am among the countless lives transformed by this 100-year organization. That is why I want to use my voice for clearer representation of all members and showcase what Toastmasters can be globally in the next century.

Learn more about Hani Nur

 

Dunstanette Macauley, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 11

Why do you want to serve?

I believe in moving through life’s journey a step at a time. My experience in Toastmasters has afforded me the opportunity to serve at the club, district and region levels. Now I am eager to give back to our organization by sharing knowledge gained, as well as my global experience and perspective.

Learn more about Dunstanette

 

Patrick Oluyide, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 11

Why do you want to serve?

To ensure that future Toastmasters thrive in a welcoming and inclusive environment, I am motivated to collaborate with others to create a member-focused Toastmasters community that inspires and empowers everyone to flourish and reach their fullest potential, regardless of age and background.

Learn more about Patrick

 

Nikki Quinn, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 11

Why do you want to serve?

Joining the Toastmasters program has helped me elevate my career, improve my presence with executive leaders, and my ability to articulate my ideas with clarity. As a member of our Board, I would love to be able to influence our strategy so that future generations have similar opportunities.

Learn more about Nikki

 

James Edward Taruc, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 11

Why do you want to serve?

I found in Toastmasters the voice I never had - one that connects, develops, and empowers. This generation is fueled by emerging ideas, I dedicate myself to bring helpful insights that bridge gaps, to lead passionately for the members, and to work harder so more voices will be heard and transformed.

Learn more about James

 

Sudash Liyanage, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 13

Why do you want to serve?

I want the Toastmasters brand to remain the premier provider of communication and leadership excellence, in this century of challenging new digital era. To steer this mission, I wish to be actively involved with the board to meet our members' needs and to enable more people to embrace our program. 

Learn more about Sudash

 

Suganthi Periasamy, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 13

Why do you want to serve?

We have the perpetual need to innovate our program for industry relevance, optimize operations for timely support, and seek sustainable growth in emerging markets. I want to be involved in developing innovative and practical strategies in these areas to enable us to continue transforming lives.

Learn more about Suganthi

 

Charles Tan Chia Lih, DTM

Candidate for International Director from Region 13

Why do you want to serve?

Communication and leadership opportunities within Toastmasters for 19 years. Multi-national corporate experience for 26 years. An avid traveler and has been to over 20 countries and knows everyone is unique. Let me combine these learnings and strategically bring Toastmasters program to more people.

Learn more about Charles