Congratulations!

District 17 is proud to celebrate Steve Ashworth, our first member this year to achieve the prestigious Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award in 2025-2026. This is the highest educational recognition in Toastmasters and an honour reached by only about 1% of members worldwide.

Steve is a member whose journey reflects exactly what Toastmasters is truly about: growth through service. Along the way, he has helped establish three Gavel Clubs, supporting young people to develop confidence, communication and leadership skills.

When asked what becoming a DTM means personally, the response was refreshingly humble: “I’m still coming to terms with it… perhaps in time it will have a bigger impact.” His response perfectly captures the spirit of the award — DTM is not a finish line, but a milestone along a lifelong path of development.

To share his experience and inspire others, we asked Steve five questions about his path to DTM.

The biggest challenge?

I was fortunate enough to have Ross Wilkinson, guiding, encouraging and motivating me through out.

What made the biggest difference?

Connecting the project to Gavel club and being able to do more for Fremantle Gateway Gavel Club. This club has had a positive impact on both our daughters (Matilda and Lola) and that is reason enough to keep going. The journey became less about awards and more about impact.

A skill used every day?

Impromptu speaking. I use this every day and it is an amazing skill to develop. The ability to think and respond clearly in the moment has become invaluable beyond Toastmasters.

Advice for members who think DTM isn’t for them?

“Don’t focus on it. Focus on what you can do for your club and the members. If DTM is meant to be, it will be.”

What’s next?

Continuing to grow Gavel Clubs and help develop communication and leadership skills for current and future generations.

Steve’s journey reminds us the DTM is not about chasing a title — it’s about contribution, growth and service.

Congratulations Steve —  thank you for your continued commitment to Gavel Clubs and inspiring District 17.

What does it take to become a Distinguished Toastmaster?

To earn a DTM, a member completes advanced communication and leadership pathways, mentors others, leads significant projects, and contributes beyond their own club — often over several years. It recognises sustained impact, not just participation. https://www.toastmasters.org/education/distinguished-toastmaster

Could you be next?