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 Fewer than 1% of all Toastmasters achieve the distinction
Lake Forest resident Michael Varma earned his Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award, an accomplishment earned by fewer than one percent of the more than 260,000 Toastmasters International members worldwide.
“The Distinguished Toastmaster designation is given only to those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and communication skills and have used these skills to mentor others in their self-development efforts,” said Daniel Rex, Executive Director of Toastmasters International. “Michael has met all of our rigorous requirements to become a Distinguished Toastmaster. I congratulate him for achieving this honor.”
To earn the Distinguished Toastmaster designation, a member must demonstrate excellence in public speaking in many formats, including multiple presentations, mentoring up-and-coming speakers and helping newly chartered clubs. To become a Distinguished Toastmaster, Varma gave more than 40 public presentations in his club and in the community, and also performed 27 leadership projects.
Varma also received the inaugural Founder’s District Governor’s Citation for “extraordinary public relations" last August for his work to promote Toastmasters International’s 85th anniversary, revamping the Toastmasters Founder’s district’s Web site and his involvement in more than 180 Toastmasters events.
“Michael’s Distinguished Toastmaster designation is indicative of what he brings to every project,” said Maira Pineda, Past Founder’s District Governor. “He communicates clearly in small group meetings, when he’s giving presentations at our leadership conferences and during training workshops. He sets a wonderful example for all who want to be clear and concise and enhance their ability to listen and evaluate objectively.”
Earning the Distinguished Toastmasters award typically requires five to eight years of service to the organization. Varma has been a member of Toastmasters for six years and is the author of a dozen books including “Tasteful Toasts,” a pocket-book that helps you speak like a seasoned professional and recite the perfect toast for any occasion or event.
About Toastmasters
Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. The organization has more than 260,000 members in 12,500 clubs in 113 countries. To locate a Toastmasters club near you, visit www.Toastmasters.org.
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