Maurice Fuller, DTM

Relevant work experience and how it relates to Toastmasters and your role as a Board Member:

My work experience spans strategic planning, financial management, policy development, and leadership, all of which align with the core values of Toastmasters International. As a board member for multiple organizations, including Affirming Youth Foundation and the Universal Truth Center, I have played a key role in development and implementation strategic initiatives, managing budgets, and creating comprehensive policy frameworks. My leadership experience, combined with my commitment to Toastmasters, where I achieved the designation of Distinguished Toastmaster, has equipped me with the skills necessary to support organizational growth and sustainability effectively.

What experience do you have in strategic planning?

.I have assisted organizations and leaders in developing clear, actionable plans consistent with their objectives and missions. I have collaborated with the Affirming Youth Foundation to develop strategic frameworks that emphasize innovation, sustainability, and growth. Specifically, I led leadership teams through exercises to define the organization's fundamental values, mission statements, and long-term objectives. I also supported the analysis of internal and external data to guide strategic decision-making and helped adapt strategies to new circumstances while keeping the focus on long-term goals during periods of growth.

What experience do you have in the area of finance?

I have a wealth of experience in finance, particularly in advising the Affirming Youth Foundation on financial planning, budgeting, and analysis. I played a critical role in the development of comprehensive annual budgets aligned with the strategic objectives of the treasurer of the board of directors of the two organizations. This encompassed projecting revenues, chairing the annual fundraising campaigns, estimating expenditures, and ensuring the effective allocation of financial resources. I have advocated for the establishment of multi-year financial plans to support the organization's long-term sustainability. Throughout the fiscal year, I aided in the monitoring of budget performance, identified variances, and adjust the budget to ensure financial stability. I assisted the organization in the implementation of cost-saving measures that preserved the quality of their services and products. This entails the examination of operational expenses, the identification of inefficiencies, and the development of cost-cutting strategies. Additionally, I facilitated the distribution of funds across various initiatives to ensure alignment with the objectives of the organization and the constraints of donors.

What experience do you have in developing policies?

I have extensive experience in developing financial and operational policies for multiple organizations, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and alignment with organizational objectives, particularly for the Universal Truth Center and Affirming Youth Foundation. My policy development process includes identifying gaps or needs through stakeholder consultation, drafting clear and actionable policies, and aligning them with the organization's strategic vision. These policies focused on areas such as financial management, grant reporting, procurement, and operational efficiency. My process begins with a comprehensive requirements assessment to identify the need for new policies or revisions to existing ones, evaluating organizational objectives while consulting with stakeholders. I have established financial policies that encompass budget management, financial reporting, cash handling, procurement, and expense reimbursement, ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency. Additionally, these policies govern the management of grant funds, ensuring compliance with grantor requirements and appropriate resource allocation. By closely aligning these policies with the organization's strategic plan, I ensure they support long-term objectives and promote sustainable growth.

What lessons did you learn from previous leadership positions?

In my previous leadership roles, I have learned several key lessons. The most important are the value of active listening, empathy, and fostering inclusive environments. As a leader, I have found that building trust through transparency and consistency is essential for motivating teams. Additionally, I learned that effective leadership requires humility, adaptability, and decisiveness, all of which are critical when navigating challenges and driving positive change. I believe that empowering others and leading by example are my key to creating lasting impact.

What experience and key strengths would you bring to the Board of Directors?

My key strengths include strategic planning, financial management, and policy development, along with a strong ability to foster inclusive environments. As an InterSpiritual/Faith practitioner, I am adept at listening to diverse perspectives, which is essential for board discussions and decision-making. My leadership experience spans both the corporate and nonprofit sectors, where I have successfully driven positive change by aligning operational strategies with long-term objectives. My passion for empowering individuals through communication and leadership, combined with my financial and policy expertise, will contribute significantly to advancing the mission of Toastmasters International.

Why do you want to serve as an International Officer/Director?

I want to serve as an International Director because Toastmasters International has played a transformative role in my personal and professional development. I am passionate about giving back to the organization by leveraging my expertise in strategic planning, financial oversight, and leadership. I believe I can contribute to advancing Toastmasters' mission of empowering individuals worldwide by helping the organization grow and adapt to the evolving needs of its members.

What volunteer experience do you have outside of Toastmasters?

Outside of Toastmasters, I have served on the boards of the Affirming Youth Foundation and the Universal Truth Center, where I focused on strategic planning, financial management, and policy development. I have also volunteered as a Conscious Aging facilitator, conducting workshops and seminars aimed at fostering mindfulness and personal growth among aging populations. I am also a Certified Senior Trainer Transformational Coach of the Jack Canfield Success Principles Methodology and give free workshops to churches and community organizations.

Have you worked with other Boards of Directors outside of Toastmasters? If so, describe your experience.

Yes, I have worked with the Boards of Directors of Affirming Youth Foundation and the Universal Truth Center. As Treasurer and Secretary, I played a key role in financial oversight, strategic planning, and policy creation. I helped lead fundraising efforts and helped align the organizations' financial strategies with their long-term goals. My experience on these boards has equipped me with a solid understanding of governance, financial responsibility, and how to lead an organization through growth and sustainability.

In your opinion, what are Toastmasters International’s major objectives and how would you work to achieve them?

Toastmasters International's major objectives are to foster leadership and communication development, expanding its global presence, and continuously innovate its educational offerings, all while staying true to its mission of empowering individuals to become effective communicators and leaders. These objectives align with Toastmasters' core values of integrity, respect, service, and excellence. To achieve these goals, I would focus on strengthening member engagement through initiatives that support personal and professional development, ensuring members have the resources they need to succeed. I would also work on expanding Toastmasters' reach by developing strategic initiatives that target underrepresented regions and communities, making our educational programs more accessible globally. Additionally, I would advocate for the continuous evolution of our education curriculum, ensuring that it remains relevant and adaptable in an ever-changing world, while staying rooted in the mission and values that make Toastmasters so impactful.

Additional information about candidate:

I am an avid reader, world traveler, and enjoy cooking fusion-style foods. Volunteering is a core part of my life, particularly in helping inner-city youth. I received a Certificate of Merit from the City of Miami in November 2021 for advancing the quality of life in the community. As an immigrant from Jamaica, I am passionate about making a positive impact on the world.

In addition, I am deeply committed to promoting world peace as a certified meditation teacher. I teach individuals to honor diversity and foster respect through compassionate and meditative practices. As a motivational and transformational speaker, I focus on empowering people to uplift themselves and contribute to a better, more harmonious world.