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Toastmasters International Presidents have gained valuable lessons and insights while on their climb up the leadership ladder. Below, Presidents from the last 10 years share some words of wisdom that may inspire you on your own leadership journey.
“Real leadership comes into play when the unthinkable happens, when dark clouds loom in the sky, when storms are on the horizon, and the need for new leaders becomes a necessity.”
— Mohammed Murad, DTM, 2014–2015
“To be strong as a leader or speaker, we need a base of knowledge, a place to practice our skills, and a way to get feedback on our performance. I can’t think of a better place than Toastmasters to access these three elements.”
— Jim Kokocki, DTM, 2015–2016
“I know of no effective leader who is not also an effective communicator. Each individual skill enhances the other.”
— Mike Storkey, DTM, 2016–2017
“In my world travels I have urged leaders to have faith in people, to genuinely feel for them. Belief can do a lot for an individual. Genuinely feeling for the individual can be life-changing.”
— Balraj Arunasalam, DTM, 2017–2018
“Every leader has responsibilities to fulfill; every member has a role to support them. You have the opportunity to positively impact our organization through your personal leadership.”
— Lark Doley, DTM, 2018–2019
“We transform from the ordinary to the extraordinary through the dedication and commitment of leaders who serve our clubs, Districts, and beyond.”
— Deepak Menon, DTM, 2019–2020
“Leaders don’t run away from a challenge, they run toward it.”
— Richard E. Peck, DTM, 2020–2021
“In my experience, integrity starts from within. It is when your thoughts and actions are aligned, and your decisions are based on your values instead of personal gain.”
— Matt Kinsey, DTM, 2022–2023
“I believe leaders are learners. There will never be a time when I know everything about leadership. I am eager to learn how to become more effective as a leader. Who we are now does not limit who we will be in the future if we are willing to learn.”
— Morag Mathieson, DTM, 2023–2024
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