Page 40 - Voices 2024-10

D7 News

My Experience at the 2024

Toastmasters International Annual Convention

By Nuchanath Aumpradithpun, DTM

I have attended every Toastmasters 1. Global Community and Networking
International Annual Convention since 2015.
The 2024 annual convention in the Golden The convention underscored the global reach
State of California on August 14-17, 2024 was of Toastmasters International, with a little
the 2nd in-person convention after COVID 19 more than 1,500 in-person attendees from
pandemic that I have attended. Each time I approximately 80 countries sharing their
witnessed the flag ceremony at the opening unique perspectives and experiences. This
session of the Toastmasters conventions, I diversity enriched the learning experience,
was hooked. The conventions have become as members could engage with different
my summer vacation. The energy and sense communication and leadership styles.
of camaraderie at Toastmasters conventions Networking opportunities were abundant,
are often contagious, uniting individuals from with numerous events (for example,
diverse backgrounds and locations under Marketplace, Candidate Corners, VIP History
the common goal of self-improvement and Corner, Meet the Toast Talk Speakers, Region
mastery of public speaking. It’s inspiring to be Gatherings, Sing-Along, etc.) designed
surrounded by like-minded people who to foster connections among members.
share a passion for communication and These interactions often led to meaningful
personal development. conversations about personal growth, club
challenges, and innovative solutions. As
Here’s my reflection on some of the highlights one of the virtual members of District 7, I
and takeaways from the 2024 convention: was excited to connect with the 2024-2025
District 7 Trio: Dr. Gwendolyn Avington, DTM,
District Director and Phyllis Harmon, DTM,
Program Quality Director; and some of the
members attending the convention face to
face.

40 Voices!