March 8 is International Women’s Day. The annual celebration marks the many achievements of women around the world. It also points to challenges they face in their daily lives, particularly when it comes to equity and opportunity.
Spotlighting the benefits of diversity, the 2024 theme is “Inspire Inclusion.” Women’s networks, companies, educational institutions, and other organizations will hold a variety of festivities for International Women’s Day, which first began in 1911. These events include conferences, exhibitions, concert performances, speakers, and online digital programs.
When it comes to women in Toastmasters, there’s an awful lot to celebrate right now. The organization’s top three International Officers for 2023–2024 are women: International President Morag Mathieson, DTM; International President-Elect Radhi Spear, DTM; and First Vice President Aletta Rochat, DTM. In addition, women captured the top three spots in the 2023 World Championship of Public Speaking®: Jocelyn Tyson, first place; Nisha Shivram, DTM, second place; and Maryam Ganni, third place.
On top of all that, Toastmasters’ 2023 Accredited Speakers—the organization’s highest-earned designation—were also all women: Stephanie Angelo, Dale Rees-Bevan, DTM, and Verity Price, DTM (the 2021 World Champion of Public Speaking).
—Paul Sterman
