Randy Ekakitie

Growing up on a farm taught me the power of the HEN philosophy (hard work, enthusiasm
and never giving up) as a tool to achieve pretty much everything in front of you. While I did
not appreciate it at the time, every time I look back, I see the power of HEN at work in
everything I do. It was HEN that drove me to toastmasters over 3 years ago and in particular
Warrington Toastmasters. I was not sure what to expect, but in 3 years I have managed to
navigate from being a secretary to VPE and then president of the club.
I had no ambition of moving on pass that, but in 2023 I had the clarion call and accepted the
role of Area Director for Area 15. Call me crazy or just living the HEN life, but what a journey
it was, and I loved every moment of it. Learnt a great deal out of it and I hope I have given
back to the organization in some way or another. I believe there is a huge correlation
between HEN and the values of toastmasters of Integrity, respect, service, and excellence.
Maybe that is why I find it so attractive.
My time as an Area Director showed me a different side of toastmasters and the values of
toastmasters was evident when I was out and about visiting clubs. I met incredible people
along the way and hope my life was enriched by the various encounters.
Any sensible person will stop there, but my HEN philosophy kept driving me on.