Toastmasters UK North & Ireland

Michele Blackwood – Dundee Toastmasters

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 … Read more

Club spirit in action: How our members came together to save contest night.

On the evening of 15 March, our club in District 71, Area 16, Division C was due to hold its International Speech and Evaluation Contest at 7.45 pm. Shortly before the meeting began, we received news that our Vice President Education, who was also acting as Chief Judge, had been involved in a car accident … Read more

Dundee Toastmasters Speechcraft Programme at NCR Atleos

In November 2025, Dundee Toastmasters successfully delivered a Speechcraft programme for international ATM company NCR Atleos at their UK offices in Dundee. The programme was led by Michèle Blackwood (Pathways Champion Div S) alongside fellow members Caroline Cooper, Claire Downie (Club President) and Julia Martineau (Area 43 Director).  Participants were provided access to Speechcraft online … Read more

Strengthening Leadership Across District 71: Reflections on the Regional Advisor’s February Visit

Day 1– The opening day brought together a combined Club Officer Training and round-table engagement. Participants repeatedly expressed that the sessions were unlike anything they had experienced before- dynamic, deeply engaging, and transformational in both content and delivery. The conversations surrounding club growth, member experience, leadership pipelines, and new club creation reflected a renewed enthusiasm … Read more

Testimonials From Regional Advisor’s Visit

After a very warm round of introductions we proceeded to learn how the TM has experience has impacted people from different clubs around the country. Always positive, the conversations were most stimulating! We also learned how we can improve guest experience, service and retention within the clubs. The speakers were truly excellent. A pleasure to … Read more