09-08-2025
District 116 Toastmasters kicks off 2025-2026 with empowering leadership, PR initiatives
Darlene Regis
District 116 Toastmasters has launched its new program year with a series of impactful events focused on leadership, Public Relations (PR) skills, and district-wide collaboration.
Notably, the organization is proudly led by Filipino Toastmasters, whose vision and dedication continue to inspire and drive the district's success.
From the PR Bootcamp to leadership and planning sessions, these initiatives highlight the organization's dedication to empowering members and clubs for continued success.
Here's a look at the key highlights that are shaping the district's dynamic year ahead.
First Executive Meeting
On June 20, 2025, District 116 Toastmasters held its first District Executive Committee Meeting (DECM1), uniting District Headtable, Division Directors, Area Directors to align goals, strategies, and responsibilities for the year.
Held at Embassy Suites Doha Old Town, the meeting laid a strong foundation, with District Director Alar Mel Mangai, DTM, opening with a message of unity: 'When leaders are aligned with purpose, the impact ripples across every club and member.'
Key agenda points included success plans, budgets, strategic priorities, and division targets. Leaders emphasized training, mentorship, club growth, and PR initiatives.
The meeting gave Division and Area Directors a chance to share insights and plans. Program Quality Director Sherwin Olimpo, DTM stressed training and mentorship, Club Growth Director Eman Salameh, DTM outlined club-building initiatives, and PR Manager Leo Ortega, DTM shared a roadmap for storytelling and brand visibility.
PR Bootcamp
District 116 Toastmasters successfully concluded its Ultimate Next-Level PR Bootcamp on July 25, 2025, a hands-on event that united PR Officers, Club Leaders, and PR enthusiasts for a day of learning and collaboration.
Featuring expert sessions on branding, social media, design, and campaign analytics by trainers Kumaran CS, Diana May Tangente-Ortega, and Fritz O'niel Cabunilas, Jr., the bootcamp provided hands-on experience through interactive booths and a PR kit for participants.
Club Officers Training 1
District 116 successfully hosted Club Officers Training 1 on June 13, 2025, at DPS Monarch International School, preparing leaders to empower members for the 2025–2026 year.
Over 300 club leaders attended practical sessions on leadership, club management, membership, and member experience, led by experienced District Officers and Distinguished Toastmasters.
COT1 also offered a networking platform for leaders to share best practices and ideas.
The event ended with a call to lead with purpose. The organization looks forward to COT2, continuing to empower leaders.
About Toastmasters International
Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization that builds confidence and public speaking skills through a global network of clubs. Members practice speeches, impromptu speaking, and feedback in supportive environments to reach personal and professional goals. Founded in 1924 and based in Colorado, it has over 270,000 members in 14,000+ clubs across 150 countries.
