by Jin Lim Area 62 Director
The District 25 Summit Area Council Meeting was a dynamic gathering that brought together many area directors, club officers, and members under one roof on the morning of Saturday, November 11th. The highly anticipated two-hour session was packed with valuable networking opportunities, thought-provoking discussions, and collaborative efforts aimed at enriching the Toastmasters experience.
Setting an energetic tone for the event was Jesse Ford, DTM, District 25 Program Quality Director, who conducted a vibrant interview with Wafae Owen, DTM, Region 3 Advisor. The spotlight shone brightly on the district’s remarkable achievement of its highest member renewal rate this year. Wafae took a moment to applaud the unwavering commitment of D25 leaders, past and present, whose dedication has been instrumental in shaping the district’s success.
Adding a touch of inspiration to the proceedings, Sallie Jett, D25 PR Manager, delivered a compelling keynote, urging participants to view their club culture through the eyes of first-time guests. This perspective, she emphasized, has the power to transform our clubs into more vibrant and welcoming communities.
Following the keynote, the buzz of enthusiasm continued as club participants engaged in a revealing club culture quiz. In Area 62, comprising AAFCU Flying Toasters, Airport Toastmasters, Circle of Excellence, Flagship Speakers Toastmasters, and Southlake Club, officers, and members discovered a surprising commonality: the identification of our clubs as “Family”-type environments.
A standout moment at the Area Council Meeting occurred when Jim Chappel, President of Airport Toastmasters, shared the challenge of securing a meeting venue post-COVID. In a heartening display of solidarity, fellow members swiftly rallied, offering a flood of ideas and unwavering support. This instance underscored a deep sense of unity and collaboration that defines the very fabric of District 25. Here, within the embrace of the Toastmasters Family, we find ourselves interconnected, reinforcing the shared mission of personal and collective growth within D25 and the Toastmasters community.