Toastmasters is very fortunate to have Michele Blackwood. I’m very fortunate to have Michele as a fellow toastmaster at Dundee.
Why, because Michele isn’t just someone who does the donkey work of keeping a club running; she elevates it. Michele is a steady hand behind the scenes, a competent person in times of uncertainty, and a voice of wisdom and experience who is so happy to help others.
Michele has an amazing depth of knowledge. I don’t think she knows how much she knows! Michele uses her knowledge to help, not to impress. If she can help, she will.
If someone is stuck, Michele is there to encourage, guide, or nudge.
Michele champions our club, looking for ways to improve it and raise our profile. Most recently that was through the delivery of Speechcraft to NCR in Dundee and taking the role of Pathways Champion.
Michele steps up and gives support to us all with all aspects of Toastmasters, from membership to projects to pathways. It includes Michele putting on extra sessions in the evenings to support new members navigate their way.
Michele is solid and steadfast, and I feel very fortunate and thankful to have her support. Several times, it’s Michele that’s got me out of sticky situations with her calm demeanour.
Michele embodies everything that is the spirit of Toastmasters. Service to others, encouragement and excellence. She doesn’t seek the spotlight, but it is time to light up the contribution to Toastmasters, at her home club and wider, and to recognise it with a heartfelt thank you, Michele, for all you do.
Julia Martineau