In a first for the Virgin Islands, public officers will form a Public Service Toastmasters Club to help foster public speaking and leadership skills within the Public Service.
The Public Service Toastmasters Club has been realised through the partnership of the Deputy Governor’s Office, the Department of Human Resources and the Tortola Toastmasters Club.
Deputy Governor Mr. David D. Archer, Jr is encouraging public officers to take advantage of the opportunities Toastmasters provides.
“The science tells us that good communicators are likely to be better leaders, and every organisation needs staff with leadership potential, Mr. Archer said, adding, “This is where Toastmasters can help. Toastmasters provides a practical framework for the development and preparation of public officers in the areas of communication, leadership and public speaking.”
President Portia Stoutt said the Tortola Toastmasters Club is proud to support the Government of the Virgin Islands with the chartering of the Public Service Toastmasters Club, which is expected to be fully operational in July 2021. Ms. Stoutt in a statement said, “We are looking forward to extending a warm welcome to public officers who are passionate about becoming better in leading and communicating, to log in to the upcoming virtual registration drive on Monday, June 7, at 10:00 a.m. on the Cisco Webex platform.”
The non-profit Toastmasters International has helped more than four million people around the world become more confident public speakers by boosting their self-esteem and helping groom them for leadership since 1924.
Globally, Toastmasters recently launched a learning platform where members can select from 11 different areas of focus such as Persuasive Influence, Effective Coaching and Motivational Strategies. Each focus area guides members through a series of hands-on activities designed to challenge the members to expand and develop their skills and abilities.
Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Michelle Donovan-Stevens, added that she welcomes the Public Service Toastmasters Club as a new and different option for public officers to acquire the practical experience and exposure needed to enhance their communication and leadership skills. She is encouraging public officers to take full advantage of this learning and development option to upskill and expand their professional repertoire.
The Deputy Governor, the Director of Human Resources and the President of the Tortola Toastmasters club will host online information sessions and a registration drive via Webex on Monday, June 7, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Potential members are invited to join the virtual drive at https://bvigov.webex.com/bvigov/j.php?MTID=mcade793a3e57bd37e35a349aea9133c7 where they can also witness a taste of Toastmasters through presentations scheduled for 10:00 a.m., 12:00 noon, and 3:00 p.m.