It was 2016, and I was very fortunate to have an incredible campaign team. This team reflected an international group of leaders from across the globe. I grew with these leaders in various capacities – district leadership, serving as a region advisor as well as being mentored by some along the way. 

From preparing for the International Leadership Committee (the committee assigned to interview and nominate candidates for International Director and International Officer positions) interview & leader showcase, website development, listening and helping with my two-minute address, arranging interviews and everything in between, the road to Washington DC was a magical one.  

In 2016, Toastmasters International had 102 districts and connecting with the district leaders leading up to convention was invigorating and enlightening. On August 20^th the membership voted me to the board.

Once around the board table, no matter what the end result of a decision was, all perspectives were considered, all voices were listened to with careful consideration for the member.  There was a deep respect and concern for an organization that had shaped us and made leaders of us all. I had served on other boards, where this was not necessarily the case, and my respect for Toastmasters International deepened with this understanding.

Some highlights that remain with me

Strategic discussions that broadened my understanding of where we have come from and where we continue to grow.

Board committee work where I was able to bring to the table my human resources management background. For example – serving on the Region Advisor Selection Committee and the Disciplinary Committee.

Ribbon cutting ceremony at the new Toastmasters International Headquarters in Englewood, Colorado. (It was brought to my attention that our ‘board class’ was at the last board meetings in our previous headquarters in California and the first ‘board class’ to open up the new headquarters)

Visiting districts within our region and connecting with the incredible leaders who serve their members with integrity, respect, service and excellence. (This also included visiting District 37 on behalf of International President Elect, Balraj Arunasalam)

Although I’m no longer on the board, I’m proud to have been asked to serve on committees since that time and enjoy giving back to an organization that has given so much to me.

If anyone is ever interested in serving on the board or hearing about serving as a region advisor, I welcome a chat!

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Monique Levesque-Pharoah, DTM
2016-2018 International Director