What made you decide to become International Director?
I believe in our organization and I believe that each country, company and community would benefit having leaders made in Toastmasters. For that reason, I wanted to share my professional and Toastmasters experience by serving on the Board of Directors.
What you had to do to become International Director?
The selection process started in September and since then I was not allowed to participate in any discussions on Toastmasters social media groups, nor post any pictures of other people. The requirements to qualify to put my name forward to this position were to have served as Club Growth Director or Program Quality Director and District Director. Then I posted the letter of intent to run in September and the list of candidates who had put their names forward was published in October. All the District leaders who served on the District Executive Committee when I was in the District trio, received an invitation to fill in a 360 degree evaluation about me and my leadership skills. In March, I had a 45 minute interview with the International Leadership Committee and the final nominations were announced in April. Between April and August I prepared the campaign for the International Convention, where almost 400 people had booked an interview with me as part of the District trio or as an individual member.
What are your main responsibilities?
My main responsibilities are serving on the front line and behind the scene. On the front line, I’m a brand ambassador who shares the organization’s message when visiting Districts and corporations. In the Boardroom, the International Directors approve the budget, participate in creating the strategic plan for 2020/2025 and review the current plan. Detailed information about the responsibilities of an International Director can be found here
What kind of challenges were you able to identify so far related to your role?
That’s quite difficult to say at this point. However, one of the challenges will be most probably the online meetings, as most of the Board members are located in US time zones.
What’s in it for you?
This is an investment in myself and in my career. I’ll learn a lot about serving in a non/profit board, about committee work and about the challenges throughout the world.
How do you think this role will impact your professional career/ personal goals?
You should ask me this question next year as I will have gained more experience working as an International Director. I know for sure that I’m going to enlarge my network.
What are your passions aside from Toastmasters?
I like to do something with my hands, renovating, drawing or sewing. I also like walking and reading.
What drives you to be part of Toastmasters?
I believe in this organization and I’ve met so many members and leaders who’ve told me that Toastmasters have changed their lives.
