by Najaf Dostaliyev DTM Program Quality Director
There’s something special about stepping off a plane into crisp winter air, feeling the raindrops tap gently against your jacket, and knowing that the road ahead, and the people you’re about to meet, will warm your heart. You can sense immediately that this journey will be filled with learning, growth, meaningful reconnections, and unforgettable memories. The friendships you bring back will last far longer than any Toastmasters role you have ever held.
This year’s Mid‑Year Training in beautiful Vancouver was truly unforgettable. Yes, the weather outside was cold and rainy, and yes, the food inside was absolutely delicious. But what stood out most was the dedication of everyone involved. Toastmasters Headquarters, their training team, the Regional 3 Advisors – Chuck LeBlanc and Dan Arbuckle – and the Region 3 International Director, Chris Raneri, worked tirelessly to create a high‑quality, impactful learning experience for all leaders in attendance that we all appreciated very much.
We spent two days in Vancouver and met our peers from across the United States who had gathered for training. Throughout those two days, we participated in many engaging sessions, sometimes with our CGD, PQD, or DD peers, and at other times in joint meetings. We even enjoyed fun learning activities, which, I must admit, I proudly mastered!
For our D25 Trio, Denise, Michelle, and I, this event carried special significance. We revisited our original 30‑60‑90-day plans from our first round of training in the summer, reflected on how far we’ve come, and set new, focused goals for the remaining months of our term. It was a moment of clarity, alignment, and renewed momentum to focus on district members and carry the knowledge and experience to help our district to grow.
Few roads in life offer the perfect blend of personal growth, professional development, global friendships, and meaningful service the way Toastmasters leadership does.
For every leader. whether experienced or just beginning their journey. Mid‑Year Training is a milestone. It’s a checkpoint where we pause to learn, recharge, realign, and recommit to the mission of helping our members, clubs, and district thrive.
And that was the true magic of the Toastmasters Mid‑Year Training in Vancouver. It was a powerful reminder that leadership is not just a role… it’s a journey.
