by Claryce Cook
I have grown up attending many different Toastmasters functions, from regular meetings to Toastmasters Leadership Institute (TLI) training, and even big district events like the Year End Celebration, the Summit, and the Annual Conference. One constant presence at these events has been the banner. After seeing the banners repeatedly, I realized I had never really known why they were there or what their importance was.
For our newest members, did you know that every club has a banner? They do! Each banner features the Toastmasters logo, the club’s name, and the club number. You may have also noticed the ribbons that adorn the banners. As I thought about these things, two questions came to mind:
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- What is the importance of the banners?
- Why do clubs put their ribbons on the banner?
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I began to ask around, and here is what I learned. The banner represents each club, similar to how Hogwarts has different houses represented by different colors, or how in Game of Thrones, each major house has its own insignia and flag. In Toastmasters, every club has a banner. The Banner Parade is a perfect example: a member from each club in attendance shows up and represents their club by entering the main room for all to see. The banner is an important way for each club to be represented and recognized for its successes and awards.
The awards a club obtains are shown by the ribbons on its banner. Each Toastmasters year, there are several incentives and goals for clubs to participate in and achieve. For example, having all seven club leaders trained before the deadline for both parts of the year (summer and winter training) earns a ribbon. A club hitting all of its education and membership goals also gains the club a ribbon. Additionally, incentives like the Sunshine-to-Sunshine program offer incentives. Once the club earns its ribbons, it adds them to its banner for all to see. This is a way to celebrate the accomplishments that the members of a club have worked hard to achieve.
As we enter into the last month of this Toastmasters year, I encourage every club to review which goals and incentives you have completed, and which you are close to achieving. Put your foot on the gas pedal and finish the year strong! The hard work is worth it, and the colorful ribbons added to the banners reflect the dedication and effort each of you has put into your personal and club growth.
Banners are an important way of showing club spirit and pride.
