Vladimir Bohdan of Batemans Bay Toastmasters, has received the highest award Toastmasters International bestows: “The Distinguished Toastmaster Award.” The DTM recognises a superior level of achievement in both communication and leadership. To reach this level of achievement a Toastmaster needs to complete a series of award stages: Competent Communication (CC), Competent Leadership (CL), Advanced Communicator Bronze (ACB), Advanced Communicator Silver (ACS), and Advanced Communicator Gold (ACG), Advanced Leader Bronze (ALB) and Advanced Leader Silver (ALS). This passage entails 40 speeches, 10 leadership projects, numerous other tasks, and being a club officer and District Governor. It is a challenging task that leads to self-improvement, self-confidence, experience in life, and a positive journey involving personal commitment and dedication.
Vlad first started in Toastmasters at Braidwood in August 2011. He became a member of Bega Valley in 2014 and then Batemans Bay in 2015. He was a sponsor of Bega Valley Toastmasters and a Chartering Member in 2014. In 2016 he became the Batemans Bay Toastmaster’s Coach.
His progress towards DTM was over a period of 4 years. CC 2013; CL 2014; ACB 2014; ACS 2015; ALB 2016; ALS 2016; ALG 2017; DTM 2017. During 2016 he conducted a High Performance Project, followed by numerous Educational Projects during 2014-2017. The executive positions he held have been: VPE 2012; President 2013; VPE 2014; Area Governor 2013; Treasurer 2015; VPE 2016; VPE 2017.
Vlad was introduced to Toastmasters by a friend and after a few meetings decided (and promised himself) he wanted to apply the discipline required for advanced communication, public speaking and leadership, and “Finish the job I started. I consider the finish of this accomplishment was receiving the DTM award.” says Vlad.
But then realised this is only the beginning! By not being a native English speaker, he said it gives him the opportunity and duty to encourage more members to achieve the top of Toastmasters qualifications. “If I can do it, anyone can!” Vlad exclaims. “Members just need to receive the right help, incentive and encouragement.”
Vlad was presented with his award by Club President Noal Annabel.
Batemans Bay Toastmasters Club meets every 1st and 3nd Tuesday of the month at the Soldiers Club. We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication, leadership skills and public speaking, within a supportive group environment, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth. Our website: www.bbtoastmasters.org.au. For more information please contact Noal 0407451331 or Amanda 0414905993
