Member Data Check - Bio
Aaron Day | ||
Adrian Herbert | ||
Adrian Lapuste | ||
Aisling O’Halloran | ||
Aiym Mikkonen | ||
Akshara Chandrashekar | ||
Alex Knibbs | With over 20 years of experience in training and business development, my most recent employment has been a further 9 years spent as a Senior Solution Consultant at Medidata Solutions, a leading provider of cloud-based software for clinical research. As a training professional, I have successfully managed regional training teams across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC regions, demonstrating my skills in team building, mentoring, and public speaking - which is where Toastmasters comes in ... Toastmasters International has been my constant 'back-pocket companion' since 2016 and I've had the good fortune to set up both Corporate and Community clubs from scratch in the past, gain my DTM and act as Division Director (G) in the past. I am also passionate about acting and writing, having published two books and spent 15 years performing in amateur dramatics and musical productions: I am currently performing as a Freelance Actor with Murder 57 Ltd, a murder mystery entertainment company, whilst also preparing for my first film role. | |
Alun Rees | ||
Ana Nicula | ||
Andra Popovici | ||
Andrew Klimaytys |
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Andrew O’Connell | ||
Angela Afieghe | Angela embarked on her Toastmasters journey in 2021 at Kildare Toastmasters, marking a rewarding three-year commitment to personal and professional growth. A year later, she extended her Toastmasters experience by joining Toastmasters4Golf. In tandem with her journey towards effective communication, Angela has assumed leadership roles within the Toastmasters community, both at the club and division levels. Impressively, on just her second meeting, she took on the role of Vice President Public Relations (VPPR) in 2021, demonstrating her dedication to enhancing the club's communication and outreach. She was elected as President in 2022. A significant highlight in Angela's Toastmasters journey came in June 2023 when she was appointed as the Division Director of Division D - Ireland. Angela views this appointment as an immense privilege, as she has the honour of serving the members within this distinct division. She is deeply committed to preserving and advancing the legacy left by those who paved the way before her. Angela's academic background is rooted in Electronics and Computer Engineering, Information Technology, Project Management, and Business, holding both a BSc and MBA. Her professional journey has spanned diverse sectors, including Business, Telecommunications, Healthcare, Banking, and Retail in various capacities, such as IT project management, portfolio and program management, business development, change management, and training. Her altruistic spirit shines through her volunteer work with Portarlington CoderDojo. Beyond her professional pursuits, Angela derives great fulfilment from collaborating with new business owners, aiding them in establishing solid foundations for success. Outside of her professional and Toastmasters pursuits, Angela's hobbies include graphic design, travel exploration, meticulous party planning, and indulging in the pleasure of reading. | |
Ann Gibson | ||
Anne Brady | ||
Anne Lawlor | ||
Anthony Phelan | Anthony joined Toastmasters in 2015 as he was looking for a new hobby in his local community. He works as a physiotherapist. He lives in Waterford, Ireland. He loves road trips, particularly in Scotland, Wales and the USA. He has driven route 101 on the California coast between Los Angeles and San Francisco three times and has also driven coast-to-coast across Canada, covering 8000 in 32 days. | |
Anu Gunavardhan | ||
Asma Riaz | ||
Bade Ayanleke | My Toastmasters journey started in earnest five years ago, having first encountered it two years prior. Since then, I’ve held various officer roles in both community and corporate clubs. One of my great passions is Jungian personality typology. This connects to my Toastmasters experience, since just as with Toastmasters it reinforces for me the principle that effective communication and collaboration isn’t about a single rigid method, but about recognising different styles and perspectives and developing your own authentic voice. | |
Bhupen Sahu | ||
Bilal Arshad | ||
Bob Ferguson | ||
Brenda Bell | ||
Brenda Lannon | ||
Brian Greene | ||
Callum Gillett | ||
Catherine Ryan | ||
Celine Pulikkal | ||
Charles Malone | ||
Cian Doorley | ||
Ciara Clogher | ||
Claire Downie | ||
Clare Crowther | ||
Clesia Mendes |
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Conn Mor O’Neill |
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Cormac Rowe | ||
Daniel Deighton | ||
Danny Banks | ||
Darren Walton | ||
Dave McIntyre | ||
David Clinton | David joined Toastmasters in November 2016 after watching and listening to a Toastmaster friend deliver a humorous speech at a club meeting. He was looking for a new interest in his local community relating to creative writing opportunities and saw that Toastmasters might be interesting. He works in a variety of capacities as a children's entertainer, children’s events Manager, Manual Handling Trainer, and guest speaker. He lives in Athgarvan in Newbridge Co Kildare, “a stone's throw” as they say from The Curragh plains with his wife Mary and two sons Josh and Oliver. | |
David Ryan | ||
Declan Brophy | ||
Delores Brady | ||
Derek Walsh | Derek is a highly experienced Toastmaster with five years of dedicated service. He is a member of the Mullingar Toastmasters, a club he considers his strong home club. His commitment and leadership skills were recognized when he served as Area Director during the 2024/2025 Toastmasters year, an achievement that culminated in him being named Area Director of the Year. Throughout his Toastmasters journey, he has also held various officer roles, including Secretary, Sergeant at Arms, and Treasurer, across multiple clubs. For Derek, Toastmasters has been a transformative experience, providing a platform for him to validate his own life experiences and, most importantly, conquer his fear of public speaking. | |
Derval Duggan | ||
Dolores Brady | ||
Dominic Bascombe | I was hooked on Toastmasters after attending a meeting of White Rose Speakers in Leeds in late 2019. I joined the club at the start of 2020 and was toastmaster of the evening for the club's first ever online meeting when public restrictions were imposed. Outside of work and Toastmasters I enjoy running and gardening.
How have I benefited from my Toastmasters experience?
Like many people, the desire to improve my public speaking was a big draw for me. Public speaking has always been a key part of my day job as a trade union official but I have most enjoyed developing leadership skills and building friendships with club members. I continue to learn about people and building relationships every day.
What most excites me about my District role?
Taking on a District role is a huge challenge. It demands your time and attention if you are to do it right. But it also presents an opportunity to be pushed out of your comfort zone and into trying something new. I'm most excited about challenging myself because just how boring would life be without challenges?
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Donagh Mckeown | ||
Donie Dee | ||
Eamonn McPartland | I joined Phoenix Tara Toastmasters in Dunboyne Co Meath in 2014 and have served in many Committee roles and have just finished as Club Presidnt for second time. I gained CC & CL in 2018 and have been on Pathways programme since. I maintain the Club website amongst amongst other roles and migrated our Club to the Free Toasthost site recently with our old url address pointing to the new domain name. | |
Eileen O’Neill | Eileen is a senior leader in Enterprise Ireland, an Irish semi state body which supports Irish owned enterprises to start, develop and innovate in Global Markets. She was one of the founding members of EI Toastmasters in 2016. She likes to keep fit with running and regular visits to the gym and completed the Dublin City Marathon in 2024. Eileen is married in Dublin with three adult children. Originally from Monaghan, Eileen noticed that her home county was one of only a few in Ireland that did not have a Toastmasters club so she linked up with some other Toastmasters with a Monaghan background and together they chartered Monaghan Toastmasters, the only community club to charter in the first Covid year, 20/21. She was Division C Director in 2019/20 and managed the transition to online meetings for clubs in the Division and a very successful end of year Divisional Recognition Event. In 2020/21 Eileen joined the District 71 Leadership Team as Finance Manager and continued this role for a second year. During this time she introduced a new process for claiming incentives and opened a District store based in Northern Ireland where members could easily spend incentives earned and buy Toastmasters shop items with a fast turnaround time. During her time as Finance Manager Eileen project managed the production of Ted Corcoran's book "The History of Toastmasters in the UK and Ireland" and hosted a high profile launch of the book in Dublin in 2022. She says that she hasn't yet discounted the possibility of a wider launch at a future date! Eileen was awarded Toastmaster of the Year in 2021/22 in recognition of the many projects she managed during that year. Eileen strongly believes that Toastmasters is a powerful program for helping people to overcome their fear of speaking and believes that organisations could very successfully establish a club in support of their employee development program and this will be a key focus for her as leader of the Bright Sparks team in 2024/25. | |
Elizabeth Jordan | Elizabeth joined Toastmasters 13 years ago as a member of Hertfordshire Speakers in the UK. She remains a proud member of this warm, friendly and successful club. She is often heard to say that she was ‘made at Hertfordshire Speakers’. Alongside her communication journey, Elizabeth has stepped up and undertaken leadership roles at club, area, division and District level. She joined the District 71 leadership team as Public Relations Manager (PRM) in 2020. She continued to serve as Club Growth Director and Program Quality Director. In May 2023, she was elected Director of District 71 - UK North and Ireland. She feels hugely privileged to be of service to the members of this wonderful district and to continue to build on the legacy of those who came before her. Elizabeth’s academic background is in research chemistry (BSc, PhD). She and has worked in Fortune 500 companies in research, product development, marketing, change management and project and program management. She has served in her local community including as a volunteer for the Samaritans, as Chair of Trustees for a London-based educational charity and a Churchill Travelling Fellow. She enjoys many hobbies including reading, walking, socialising and bootcamp classes. | |
Eric Downey | I am an advisor in a call centre and previously in pharmacy management before I retired.
I am a member of Toastmasters since Nov 2002.
I have served in may roles up to and including Division A Director.
I also became a Distinguished Toastmaster in 2021
I have huge confidence in myself now which developed over the years in Toastmasters and used this speaking and leading talent in my local Chamber of Commerce, the Church and Credit Union.
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Ernold van Bueren | ||
Femi Olulaja | My name is Femi Olulaja, I joined Toastmasters 1st of December 2019. My home club name is Leicester City Speakers.
I love travelling, reading, speaking, playing Badminton, Table tennis, piano, great lover of music, the genre depends on my mood 🙂
Student of school of life and knowledge and always willing to learn and gain new skills.
How have you benefited from your Toastmasters experience?
My Toastmasters experience has gained me enormous confidence in my public speaking, articulation, impromptu speaking, cherry on the cake is it has offered me numerous opportunities to volunteer in so many roles, gain experience in leadership roles.
What most excites you about your District role?
Looking forward to see clubs in the division continue to achieve excellence and seizing the opportunities to grow more clubs.
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Frances Geoghegan | ||
Francis Keenan | ||
Fungai Mtisi | ||
Gareth Roberts | ||
Gearoid Murphy | I joined Toastmasters in April 2016 and since then it has been a real game changer. My needs at the time were better communication and to to improve my social skills. Since then I have Achieved DTM on the Legacy program. Served as the old Area 40 Director for 2 Terms. Multiple Committee Roles at various Clubs. Sponsored, Mentored and Coached Clubs Zoom Master and Election Manager at District Level and have served as Contest Chair and Chief Judge at District Finals. I love meeting the members and giving back what I have taken out of Toastmasters. | |
Ged Byrne | ||
George Moroiu | ||
Georgina Hodgkinson | ||
Gerry Dunn | ||
Gina Dallison | Life Coach and Visionary on a mission to Change the Perspective of illness. Using her own experience of living with challenging symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis, Gina aims to inspire and lead from the heart. A keen Toastmaster since 2018, her mantra is 'never to miss an opportunity to speak'! | |
Grainne O’Kane | Gráinne O’Kane is a dedicated Toastmaster with a passion for personal growth, leadership, and the vibrant connections forged through public speaking. A member since 2015, she has held key roles in Wicklow Toastmasters, including President (2024-25) and Vice President Education (2023-24). Currently serving as Area Director for Area 5, she supports clubs in achieving excellence while fostering a culture of learning and camaraderie. A dedicated Toastmaster with a passion for personal growth, leadership, and the vibrant connections forged through public speaking. Gráinne values the intellectual stimulation, social engagement, and fun that Toastmasters offers. Her journey reflects a commitment to continuous improvement, power of communication and leadership skills. Beyond Toastmasters, Gráinne brings enthusiasm and strategic vision to every role, inspiring others to embrace challenges with confidence. She looks forward to contributing to Division success, helping members unlock their potential while enjoying the shared journey of growth. "Toastmasters isn’t just about speaking—it’s about growing together, learning fearlessly, and celebrating every step forward." – Gráinne O’Kane | |
Guy Roberts | ||
Hareth Naji | ||
Helen Orlandich | ||
Igoe Brendan | ||
Imma Ndey | ||
Jackie Chan | Jackie is a member of the new club growth team and is organising our planned event for Birmingham | |
Jackie Hill | ||
Jacqui Rosser | ||
Jacquie Wills | I am privileged to be the serving President of Norwich Speakers Club, where I have the opportunity to support others on their journey to becoming confident public speakers. Watching members grow and achieve their speaking goals is a constant source of inspiration and motivation for me and it feels like a way that I can give back to the Club, which guided and encouraged me in my own personal development. Professionally, I work as a Fire Safety and Compliance Specialist within the NHS. My role involves ensuring that healthcare environments remain safe and compliant, which can only be achieved by good communication, teamwork, technical knowledge and a strong sense of public service! Outside of work, I enjoy entertaining people in a more unusual way — as a fire breather. It’s a thrilling and creative outlet that often catches people by surprise! When I’m not juggling flames or speaking in front of an audience, I’m likely to be found in my garden. I’m an avid, although admittedly not very successful, gardener — but I love the beauty and the sense of peace it brings. I believe in lifelong learning, the value of strong community and finding joy in achievement. | |
James Finnegan | James is a Husband, Father and Grandfather, Writer, Actor and Community Activist. He has a background in Coach, Tutor and Referee Education, Training and Development with UEFA, the Football Associations of England and Ireland and Coaching Ireland at all levels from Grassroots to Elite International levels. He joined Tralee Toastmasters in October2019 and has covered all Club Officer Roles. He was Club President and Area B36 Director in 2022/23 and Division B Director in 2023/24. In 2021 he was a member of the Conference PR Team. As a member of the Growth Academy in 2022, he was Club Coach Education Chair. In 20/23 he was Corporate Club Education Chair and in 2023 he was Conference Program Chair. He has completed the Motivational Strategies (2022) and Leadership Development (2023) Pathways. He was District 71 VPPR of the Year in 2020/21 and in 2024 he was awarded the District 71 “Above and Beyond Award” James is currently the Conference Director for the 2026 conference that will be held in Tralee, Ireland. | |
James Hurford | ||
James O’Dowd | ||
Jamie O’Shea | ||
Jennifer Chalmers | ||
Jennifer Doyle | ||
Jennifer Elevique | ||
Jillian Geraghty | ||
Jim Gregory | ||
Jitendra Kumar | ||
Joe Bergin | I have been a member of Toastmasters, Microsoft Onevoice, for 5 years and am working towards my DTM. Always glad to help another club in anyway, I am looking forward to my role as Area Director for M54 this year. Outside of Toastmasters I coach a juvenile camogie team, my daughter’s team, and work as a software engineer. Feel free to reach out or connect through LinkedIn. | |
Joe Bloggs |
"Joe Bloggs" or "Fred Bloggs" are placeholder names used primarily in the United Kingdom[citation needed] to represent an average man.
The surnames Blogg/Bloggs/Bloke, is believed to have been derived from the East Anglian region of Britain, Norfolk or Suffolk, deriving from bloc, "pale, fair, shining".[1]
In The Princeton Review standardised test preparation courses, "Joe Bloggs" represents the average test-taker, and students are trained to identify the "Joe Bloggs answer", or the choice which seems right but may be misleading on harder questions.[2]
"Joe Bloggs" was a brand name for a clothing range, especially baggy jeans, which was closely associated with the Madchester scene of the 1990s.[3]
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Joey O’Leary | ||
John Allsop | ||
John Conroy | ||
John Cox | ||
John Kelly | ||
John Kendall | ||
John Leech | ||
Jolanta Drygas | ||
Julia Martineau | Julia has chosen to be Area Director for a second term because she loved the opportunities that came with this role. This time Julia is supporting a different area,Area 43. Julia's looking to share and build on her previous experiences at club and area level and to support the clubs and their members during the year ahead. | |
Julie Kenny | Julie is a member of Ipswich Electrifiers Speakers' Club | |
Justin Barry | Over the past 29 years as a proud Toastmaster, I’ve had the privilege of growing, learning, and connecting with inspiring people from all walks of life. As a long-time member of both the Dublin and Tallaght clubs, I’ve experienced firsthand the power of this organisation to transform confidence, communication, and leadership — not just in myself, but in countless others. Throughout my journey, I’ve taken on every club committee role, served as an Area Director, mentored a club, and delivered several workshops at District 71 events. Each of these experiences has deepened my appreciation for the teamwork, support, and shared passion that make Toastmasters such a special community. What I love most is helping new and existing members hit the ground running — seeing that spark of confidence grow as they discover their voice and potential. It’s a joy and an honour to give back to an organisation that has given me so much. “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” — Pablo Picasso | |
Kalpana Ramesh | ||
Kamran Fathi | By profession, I'm a clinical scientist, and I'm grateful for Toastmasters as a platform for allowing me to develop the skills I needed to give impactful and informative presentations with confidence. | |
Katuta Lumpa | ||
Kevin Lee | ||
Kevin O’Reilly | Kevin is a mindset and communications coach that specialises in interview coaching. He uses advanced coaching techniques from his training as a behavioural analyst, an NLP practitioner and Hypnotist to give people hope for the future, courage to overcome their fears now and build confidence beyond what the client believes possible. He works with individuals on a one-to-one basis and provides workshops for schools, colleges and workplaces. In addition, he also works closely with organisations both public and private, who have employees going through efficiency and redundancy processes prepare for the future. His motivation is to help as many people as he can get the career they want, because he passionately believes that “on the other side of a successful interview is the life you deserve!" He worked for over 20 years as a manager and area manager for a large sports retailer across the UK. Where he achieved the accolade of achieving a Chartered Manager status for his services and experience in leadership and management through the Chartered Manager Institute. The pandemic gave him an opportunity to do something new. He re-trained and started his own business (interviewskillsCoach.co.uk) & (ThriveNowGroup.com) which focuses improving clients lives through mindset coaching and communication and presentation mastery. He now also hosts and produces his own podcast “The Interview Jobcast”, where he interviews individuals and organisations around the topic of interviews. What excites you about your district role? As a president I got the buzz of being able to help the club members develop themselves and grown their confidence. As an Area Director I got to do that across a complete area of 4 clubs. As a Division Director I have the opportunity to help even more clubs and even more people grow and develop into the person they can be, when someone shows them how to get out of their own way. Now as Club Growth Director I support all clubs across the District and help build new clubs for our future. | |
Kevin Walsh | ||
Kishore Goshikonda | ||
Kit Barritt | ||
Kuljit Tara | ||
Larry Lyons | ||
Larry Power | ||
Lee Maguire | ||
Liam Egan | ||
Liam Madden | ||
Linda Crofton | ||
Linda Devlin | ||
Lisa Kelleher |
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Liz Welch | Liz went to her first TMs meeting in 2008 eventually joining in 2010 as she decided if she waited for her work load to decrease she would never join! Serving in all club executive roles, except for VPPR, has provide her with skills to enable her to take on leadership roles such as Area and Division Director . Holding two DTMs has been one of her greatest achievements along with Div Director of the year and a few other trophies. At one point was a member of 7 clubs now to a modest 4, in Australia, America and the UK. She has Coached, Mentored and Chartered clubs her current mission is to establish an Area ‘up north. Currently D71 Chair for the Contests and Judging team, which provides education and guidance to the members of the district in running effecting contests at all levels Liz truly enjoys challenges which enhances her knowledge and leadership skills where better than in the fantastic supportive environment of TMs! | |
Lou Burchall | ||
Mairead Dillon | About me, I am a qualified accountant and project manager, currently working in the HSE (equivalent to the NHS) as an SAP trainer. I am living in Wicklow and married to Aidan. We have 3 wonderful girls and 1 fantastic dog! Toastmasters has been life changing for me, both in my career and personal life. It has opened doors I did not know even existed! I love the role of PQD as I am passionate about training and I know with a little help, all members can achieve their Toastmasters and personal goals. | |
Mari Manning | ||
Marian Brennan | ||
Marian O’Mahony | Marian joined Bishopstown TM in 2018 with the objective of losing the fear of speaking in public. This was just the beginning of her education. Learning to truly listen and deliver supportive feedback in roles such as evaluator made clear that we’re all a work in progress. Marian draws encouragement from the growth in confidence, body language and changed mindset in others, feeling that she too can aspire to make the same improvements. Marian has served as Club Officer, Secretary and President, roles that required empathy, communication, and leadership. Marian worked in ESB Networks in various roles, last before retirement was in Environmental Management. Responsible for compiling company statistics, it upskilled her in attention to detail and nurturing relationships to achieve the best outcome. Marian published her book ‘Goodbye, My Son’, in 2016 where she shares her journey as a mother through the illness of her 18-year-old son, and the family adjustment to Brian’s death. She has a website https://www.marianomahony.com In 2025 she recorded the audiobook version: https://tinyurl.com/Goodbye-My-Son-Audiobook Marian volunteers as a patient advocate and has been the PPI (public and patient involvement) contributor to the HSE Adult Palliative Care Policy and other spaces where patient voices can be heard and promoted. Marian has six grandchildren and endeavours to keep in the loop as much as she can with the continuous changes happening technically and socially, to be truly present to the wonderful world around us. | |
Marina Murray | ||
Mario Hundertajlo | ||
Mark Bastow | Membership : Portlaoise since 2008, Clane 2016 (Charter Member), Beara 2007 (Charter Member).
Non-Club Offices held: Area 40 Governor 2013/14, Area 40 Director 2023/24, Area 28 Director 2024/25.
Professional Letters: DTM, FCCA, FCT
Employment Status: Resting since 2010. Previously Corporate Treasurer.
Residual Status: UK Citizen happily exiled in County Laois, Ireland.
Interests: Horticulture, Writing (Short stories published in Sins, Sinners, Sinful & Storytellers New Writing from Ireland Anthologies and member of a writers’ co-operative and various writers groups), Bridge.
How have you benefited from your Toastmasters experience?
It has made me more coherent, focused, and tolerant. Made me see the potential in fellow members.
What excites you about your district role?
The challenges excite me in particular how to encourage membership growth and participation in Pathways.
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Marta Moussa | ||
Martin Farrell | ||
Mary Attzs | ||
Mary Conlon | ||
Mary Martin | ||
Matty Behan | ||
Maura Meaney | ||
Michael Clarke | ||
Michael McCann | ||
Michele Barad | ||
Michele Blackwood | Joined Berkhamsted Speakers in 2016 and completed CC, CL and ACB. On relocating to Scotland I joined Dundee Toastmasters where I’m currently VPM having been President and VPE. This year I've completed the Presentation Mastery Pathway, participated in the Division S International Speech Contest and led a Speechcraft programme for employees at NCR Atelos in Dundee. | |
Michelle Lewis | ||
Mike Keenan | ||
Mike Maunsell | ||
Moira Beaton | ||
Moira O’Brien | ||
Neil D’Souza | ||
Nicholas O’Neill | Hailing From Cork Nicholas works in medical device sales across the South of Ireland. He is married with 2 chidren. Having joined Toastmasters in 2019 he has gone on to finish multiple learning paths, compete at Division level in speech contests and perform a variety of duties in his home club, Powdermills Toastmasters Ballincollig.
1. How have you benefited from your Toastmasters experience?
"Toastmasters has been one of the best and most rewarding things that I have ever done in my life. In 2019 I walked into a room full of strangers and since then have had the opportunity to meet the widest and most diverse group of friends while still having fun developing speeches and my public speaking and leadership skills in a safe supportive environment."
2. What most excites you about your District role?
As always it is the opportunity to further grow and develop while learning from and working with a wide diverse group of people all who have a common goal to succeed in Toastmasters. Everyone works towards doing their best and delivering on their personal and club objectives.
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Nick Collins | ||
Nigel Smith | ||
Nikita Parks | ||
Nuala O’ Connor | My name is Nuala O Connor, While I’m a native of Enniskillen, Co Fermanagh, I spent most of my adult life between Belfast (16 years) and Dublin (20 years). My main degree is in education with a postgrad in developing humanities - focused on community development. I also trained in Kinesiology, Reflexology, Tapping, Coaching and other Energy Healing modalities and built this business up part-time over the years. Around 6 years ago I moved more fully into the field of Coaching and Healing work. I came to Toastmasters in 2019 because I was writing a book about a new Tapping system I had created and my publishing company kept telling me that I needed to be ready to communicate my message. This panicked me a little because a in 2013 I had suffered non-trigger panic attacks and had stress related anxiety. It was Tapping that had cleared those non-trigger panic attacks and that was the reason for the book. I looked for clubs in my area and decided to contact Phoenix-Tara Toastmasters to see if I could go check them out and the rest is history. I am forever saying that I every single encounter offers me opportunity to learn. Toastmasters has been no different. The learning that has come from every single meeting is immeasurable. This year I have decided to launch into my DTM. One aspect of Toastmasters is effective leadership development and to become a DTM I need to lead at District level. While this level of leadership in such a huge organisation does scare me a little, it also seems like the right next step for me. I am excited to be taking on the role of Area Director for Area 10 in Division C. I am looking forward to visiting the 6 clubs in this area and getting to know some great Toastmasters through the year. I am also looking forward to working with the other 4 Area Directors and Division C Director Olga Byrne through the year and to learning a lot more about this great voluntary organisation that is gearing up for centennial celebrations - what a great time to be in leadership. | |
Olga Byrne | ||
Olga Knutova | ||
Paige Skelton | I joined Toastmasters 7 years ago because my dad thought I needed to gain confidence (and of course, dads are always right!) In my professional life, I work in Recruitment. I have been in the position for 2 years now and I really enjoy it. Orlando travel is my passion. I love anything Disney world and Universal Orlando - so if anyone would like help planning a trip….. call me. ✌🏼 | |
Paschal O’Leary | I was a company director for several decades.
I was good at communicating one on one or by email. I was not comfortable speaking to groups until I joined Toastmasters.
I got the confidence to become an actor. I acted in several productions, some paid and some unpaid.
Following that, I become a director of plays. This involved communicating with large groups of actors and stage crew and making sure my vision came to pass.
As an Area Director I look forward to getting to know the people in the clubs in the Area.
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Pat Kenny | ||
Pat Rooney | ||
Patience Mupfupi | ||
Patricia Gray | I joined Dunfermline Toastmasters in 2017, I was a mature student studying with the Open University and had been elected as Area Association Representative for Scotland, I was to be the voice of all the Scottish students at committee meetings in Scotland and in the UK, however I did not have a lot of confidence with public speaking, I was sitting at home one night and received an email telling me about a new club opening in Dunfermline and after receiving more information I decided I wanted to give it a try, went along to the next meeting, I remember feeling terrified as I walked into the room for the first time, however by the end of that meeting I had enjoyed it so much I decided I wanted to join the Club, I delivered my first speech after just six weeks, and received really good constructive feedback, that enabled me to learn and improve for delivering future speeches. Now seven years on I can speak to larger audiences, have gained a lot of new skills and those skills have enabled me to volunteer with others and help them to gain these experiences as well, I still enjoy learning new skills, I have held many of the leadership roles in my club and now this year with the District as well as Area Director, and I want to continue my Toastmasters Experience for many more years to come, I believe you are never to old to learn and then you will have a lot more experience to pass on to others in the future. My Toastmasters goals I still have to achieve are to complete my first path this year, which I am on track to do, and then in the next Toastmasters year to achieve my Distinguished Toastmaster Award. To be Successful in this Area Director role will assist me towards that goal. | |
Patricia Kelly | ||
Patricia O’Reilly | ||
Patricia Radley | Patricia has been a Toastmaster since 2018 when she initially joined Cork Toastmasters. As a member of Cork Toastmasters she served as SAA, VPM, VPE. She served as President during the 2020/21 season when the club was online due to the Covid 19 pandemic. That year the Club earned Presidents’ Distinguished Status. Patricia has also served as Assistant Area Director and Area Director for Area 23, Division A. She is currently a member of 3 clubs, Powdermills Toastmasters (currently service as President), Cornerstone Communicators (an online advanced club based in the UK and serving as VPM this year ) and Sunday Speakers a hybrid club in San Antonio Texas where she has served as secretary for the last 3 years. Patricia has been involved in delivering Club Officer Training and training sessions on Pathways and Marketing clubs. She has served on club growth committee and has been involved in providing assistance to members throughout the District on Pathways via one-to-one sessions, training sessions and via the Help Hub and monthly Saturday Trainings. Patricia was honoured to win Cork Toastmasters’ Toastmaster of the Year in 2019 as well as the Division A Toastmaster of the Year in 2022. Patricia loves being involved in Toastmasters and in helping fellow members and clubs to achieve their goals and reach their potential. | |
Patrick Hynes | ||
Paul Corcoran | ||
Paul Graham | ||
Paul Greenway | ||
Paul McCarthy | ||
Paul O’Mahony | ||
Paul Walsh | Paul has been a member of Liverpool City Toastmasters since 2020. | |
Pauline McCabe | ||
Peter Kieran | ||
Peter McAuley | ||
Peter Redmond | ||
Phil Cammidge | Phil produced the instructions and documentation for how to create a Toastmasters testimonials video | |
Phil Heath | ||
Phil Sturgeon | ||
Philip Cooper | ||
Phillip O’Brien | ||
Phillip Vesey | ||
Prince Acquah | ||
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. | |
Ray Foley | I have been a member of Toastmasters for 7 years now. I attended Drogheda Toastmasters in 2018 as a guest and loved it. I have been a Treasurer, VPE x 2 and President of the club. The Leadership and Public Speaking experience I have received from Toastmasters has changed my life, both professionally and personally. | |
Reg Hawkins | ||
Richard Pilgrim | ||
Rizwana Hasmin | ||
Rob Partridge | Dr. Rob Partridge, based in the vibrant city of Galway, is a distinguished DTM Toastmaster, passionate LGBTI+ activist, and professional speaker specialising in LGBTI+ history, mental health awareness, and deafness. Living with hearing aids and proficient in multiple sign languages, Rob is a strong advocate for inclusivity and accessibility.
With a career spanning both entertainment and medical fields, Rob brings a unique blend of creativity and empathy to his professional endeavors. Most notably, his extensive experience in the medical sector has enriched his understanding of mental health and well-being, which he passionately shares through various speaking engagements.
In addition to his advocacy work, Rob produces a thought-provoking podcast focusing on body image issues and mental health, providing a platform for open and honest conversations. Whether at a Toastmasters meeting, crafting his next speech, or soaring at 32,000 feet, Rob's dedication to fostering awareness and understanding remains unwavering.
How have you benefited from your Toastmasters experience?
I believe Toastmasters is part of the reason I’ve been successful in my chosen fields. It has given me the ability to craft the perfect speech as well as lead a team to success.
What most excites you about your district role?
I am excited about the networking potential and making new friends as well as working with a dynamic Division Director who is extremely supportive and encouraging.
Social Links
My website: www.twelvereasonswhy.com
My Fediverse feed: https://toot.chez.gay/@
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Ronnie Smith | ||
Ross Donovan | From Cork but living and working in Dublin since 2019, I have been a member of the UDC Smurfit Toastmasters Club since 2020. I have served as VPE and Club President in the past.
I became aware of Toastmasters for the first time while completing my Masters degree".
How have you benefited from your Toastmasters experience?
Toastmasters has helped me improve communication and public speaking skills - a crucial and often overlooked skill.
Like any skill, to improve it requires practice. That is where Toastmasters comes in handy.
I have also met some wonderful people in my club, which I am convinced is the most vibrant and diverse Toastmasters club in our District.
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Sam Ashby | ||
Sam Warner | ||
Sarinca Janga | Sarinca joined Toastmasters in 2016 as she was looking to improve her skillset in public speaking and build greater confidence in leadership roles. She works as an accounting specialist in the financial services industry. She lives in Glasgow, with husband David and her daughter Victoria. She originally hales from Bonaire in the Caribbean and enjoys an annual sojourn back home to family and friends during the Summer. | |
Saurabh Gurgule | ||
Saurabh Namnaik | ||
Seamus Hynes | ||
Sergey Udaltsov | I am from Saint-Petersburg, Russia. I moved to Ireland in 2000 as an IT professional. Joined Tralee Toastmasters in 2013. | |
Shirley Gallagher | ||
Shirley Marshall | ||
Siobhan Doherty | I am a member of Toastmasters since 2000, a dual member of Raheen and Shannon clubs. Still learning. | |
Siobhan Phillips | ||
Somesh Kumar | ||
Stallone Samuel | ||
Steve Campion | Professionally, Steve has a background in IT systems architecture and IT management. He now manages global HR systems for a large hospitality company. He spends a lot of time in Zoom meetings. He is a Distinguished Toastmaster and has served in a variety of roles, including club president, club sponsor and member of the District Leadership Team. He is currently the District's Program Quality Director. | |
Sudeepto Kushary | ||
Sue Burnett | ||
Sue Eastman | ||
Sue Sander |
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Sujanth Sivanesan |
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Sultan Kus | ||
Suraj Gavane | ||
Tanya Barad | I work as a project manager, mainly in IT. I'm very process oriented and I was sent to Toastmasters by my work because they knew it could help me in my work. It greatly helped me develop in my communication skills and confidence. My mum is also a member of Toastmasters, so we get to do fun things together. I was District Realignment Chair in 2018/19 and Area Director for area 39. I was awarded Toastmaster of the Year at the Toastmasters conference in Norwich in 2019. | |
Teresa Dukes | ||
Teresa Jones | Teresa has been a Toastmaster since 2012 in the Leeds City Toastmasters club. Having taken roles including VP Membership, President, and VP Education, and being persuaded by her team, Area Director is now the next step. | |
Therese Dharmakan-Pistilli | ||
Thérèse Kinahan | Thérèse Kinahan DTM is our District 71 Alignment Chair for 2025-2026. This year is Therese's 10th anniversary as a Toastmaster. In those 10 years, Therese has taken every club role, been an Area Director and a Division Director. She has also helped in the building of four clubs in three Districts. Therese was Education Chair on the very successful 2024 D71 Portlaoise Conference Team. Therese is Registration Chair for the D59 2026 Conference. This year Therese also serves as President of the PowerTalk Advanced Club in Division M. Outside of Toastmasters, Therese is a qualified Trainer and Athletics Coach, with experience in Cultural Diversity Training. Therese is a published poet and writer. We wish her well in her retirement in September 2025. | |
Tim Leech | ||
Tina Norbury | ||
TJ Ruredzo | ||
Tom Flynn | I have been a member of Westport Toastmasters for 13 years. During that time I have filled all the Officer positions. Currently I am Area 27 Director in my second continuous year. Since becoming a member of Toastmasters I have overcome my shyness and progressed to being a competent communicator. I now visit schools in particular talking about and giving "Speechcraft" courses to Transition year students ages from 17 to 18 years of age. I hope this year to be awarded my DTM which would be icing on the cake for me. | |
Una Mooney | ||
Venice Rowe | ||
Venkatesh Gopalakrishnan | ||
Vesko Petkov | ||
Wayne Purcell | ||
Will Kearney | ||
Winifred Ryan | ||
Yvonne Kearney |