Congratulations Robyn Richards on your fourth DTM — proof that the greatest achievements come from lifting others.

Four Distinguished Toastmaster awards. One consistent purpose: helping others find their voice.

It is a special privilege and honour to achieve a DTM and this, my first in the Pathways program, is similar to my very first. The road to DTM has changed and the projects have changed, but the ethos of the award has remained the same. It is all about working the education program and helping others. It isn’t hard if you have a plan and work the plan.

Why have I continued to stay in Toastmasters and why have I just lodged my fourth DTM? It is all about seeing others walk into a Toastmasters meeting timid, scared and often tongue-tied, then watching them grow from week to week into a positive, confident, and poised communicator. That thrills me more than any personal achievement, but the personal achievements just happen when you help others.

The absolute best element of Toastmasters for me is watching others give their Icebreaker speech. This is a special moment where you are privileged to watch a cocoon begin to open.

I hope to see many more Toastmasters “come to the edge and fly with us” to become a DTM as well. How can I help you to achieve this goal?

“Every Icebreaker is a beginning. Every meeting is an opportunity. If you’re ready to grow — or to help someone else grow — come to the edge and fly with us.”

DTM Journey Snapshot

• DTMs Achieved: 4
• Focus: Developing others through the education program
• Favourite Moment: Icebreaker speeches
• Philosophy: Work the plan. Help others succeed.

This is what the 1% Club looks like — not just achievement, but impact that multiplies.