Leadership Lessons Learned by Leading Ladies
It was a great pleasure to be invited to deliver to District 79, Saudi Arabia a joint webinar with Vicky Ferrer Mustafa on Lessons Learned. Whenever we do anything, in true Toastmasters style, it's fantastic to receive feedback. Please have a read of a great email from Bilquis Ahmed after hearing the webinar.
"What an inspiration to listen to two dynamic speakers and leaders. I appreciated their candidness and vulnerability to share not only their triumphs, but to also share their challenges.
DTM Victoria Ferrer Mustafa impressed me with her delightful anecdote about being Mrs. Toastmaster now. Even in her darkest hour she maintained her resiliency. How heartwarming to know that by choosing to help those in need, by serving others through Toastmasters, she continues to make a difference. When she stated that to find out if what a person is really like ask their family members, I cringed. I'm afraid of what my family would say.
I especially liked how DTM Mustafa explained that Toastmasters captivated her by just reading about it and she formed a new club. How can you not admire that vision and determination? I wish she could have spoken longer.
I thoroughly enjoyed DTM Teresa Dukes presentation. Her explanation of the qualities of a good leader in the form of an acronym resonated with me. I heartily agree with her assessment that a good leader must be a good listener by allowing everyone's voice to be heard and bringing all ideas to the table. The story about her neighbor punctuated the idea of being approachable and always making time for people. Being decisive is the hallmark of a good leader. DTM Dukes advice on this subject reiterated the need to listen to everyone's concerns, to be inclusive and consult mentors before reaching a conclusion.
I also liked DTM Dukes recounting of her first TM meeting and how that drive to help others find their voice still fuels her passion and enthusiasm for Toastmasters. Throughout her talk, DTM Dukes offered concrete advice including this: Acquiring knowledge and having the support of mentors will help tremendously to embrace higher leadership roles.Both women stressed that they work for the good of the members. (I could go on and on.)
I was actually disappointed when the webinar ended because it was captivating for me and I listened to it in bits over the course of two days. I enjoyed every moment of it, even the Arabic portions.
Thank you again for bringing such vital guests for the webinars and for doing an exemplary job as the webinar manager. Did they mention that a female needs to assume the role of District 79 Director soon?"
Warm hug,
Bilquis Ahmed