Every Toastmaster Has a Story – Toastmasters Testimonials Part II
Every Toastmaster joins for a different reason. Some hope to overcome the fear of public speaking. Others want to become better leaders, advance their careers, or simply meet new people. Over time, many discover something even more valuable—a community that encourages them to grow, supports them through life’s challenges, and inspires them to help others.
Toastmasters Testimonials – Part II, produced by Turkish-American Television (TATV), captures nine such journeys.
This project was initiated by Prime Time Toastmasters, based at Fairfax Public Access (FPA) in Fairfax, Virginia. The testimonials were recorded during the Toastmasters District 29 Annual Conference in May 2026. Effective July 1, 2026, Districts 29 and 66 merged to form District 218, making this program a meaningful snapshot of the district’s history.
The program opens with Distinguished Toastmaster James Call, who reminds viewers that every Toastmaster begins with a story. Rather than trying to tell an entire life story in an Ice Breaker speech, he encourages new members to focus on one meaningful experience—an idea that sets the stage for the inspiring testimonials that follow.
For Afaf Campbell, Toastmasters became a welcoming community after relocating with her family. Matt Mertz discovered that encouragement from fellow members helped him gain confidence from his very first speech. Celeste Gregory, inspired by a coworker who conquered her fear of public speaking, found that Toastmasters offers far more than communication skills—it opens doors to personal and professional growth.
The second half of the program highlights the friendships and support that often keep members involved for years. Sakina Zarhbouch, whose family moved frequently, found a welcoming Toastmasters club wherever life took her. Nicie Grier shares how fellow members embraced not only her but also her two daughters, demonstrating the generosity and family spirit that make Toastmasters unique.
One of the program’s most moving stories comes from Jan DeLucien. Following a brain injury that affected her ability to organize her thoughts and communicate, Toastmasters became an important part of her recovery. Her journey illustrates how the supportive environment of a Toastmasters club can help rebuild confidence one speech at a time.
The program concludes with two reflections on personal transformation. Tracie Duvall explains how constructive mentoring helped her evolve from the structured communication style shaped by three decades of military service into a more authentic speaker. Edmond Joe, who initially joined for personal benefit, reflects on how Toastmasters ultimately taught him leadership, service, and the importance of helping others develop their own voices.
Together, these stories reveal a common truth: people may join Toastmasters to improve their speaking, but they often stay because of the friendships, encouragement, and opportunities to make a difference.
TATV is proud to preserve these inspiring journeys and thanks Prime Time Toastmasters, Fairfax Public Access, Toastmasters District 29, and every participant who generously shared their personal experiences. As District 29 transitions into the newly formed District 218, these testimonials also preserve a remarkable chapter in the history of Toastmasters in our region.
We invite you to watch Toastmasters Testimonials – Part II, and if you haven’t already, explore Part I to discover even more stories of confidence, resilience, and leadership through Toastmasters.
Special thanks to Sabrina Woodlief, Maya Elzablawy, Lina Monsalve, Kim Choplin, Michelle Pittman, and the many District 29 volunteers whose support helped make the testimonial project possible.