January 2026

Director’s Address

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Finish Strong

District 44,

January marks a powerful moment in our Toastmasters year. We are officially at the halfway point of the 2025–2026 program year — a moment to pause, reflect, and then recommit with renewed focus and energy.

This is not the time to coast.
This is the time to lean in.

The second half of the year is where momentum is built, confidence is sharpened, and leadership is revealed. It’s where goals move from intention to impact. And this January, District 44 is stepping into one of the busiest — and most exciting — seasons of our year.

We have Winter TLI, where leaders are equipped and empowered.

We are launching the push toward our District Conference, where learning, inspiration, and connection converge.

And we are introducing our first-ever District Personal Branding Day, helping members align their voice, leadership, and presence with purpose.

These moments matter — because they are not just events.
They are opportunities to SHOW UP differently.

This month, I invite you to reflect honestly:

  • How have you shown up so far this year?

  • Where have you grown?

  • And where is there still room to stretch?

Then, with clarity and courage, decide how you will SHOW UP for the remainder of this Toastmasters year.

Remember, when we S.H.O.W. U.P., we:

  • Serve with Purpose, investing in others and the future of our clubs

  • Harness our Motivation, reconnecting to the “why” that brought us here

  • Own Our Journey, taking responsibility for our growth and leadership

  • Work the Program, trusting the process that transforms potential into excellence

  • Uplift Through Connection, strengthening our community through encouragement and collaboration

  • Promote the Brand, proudly sharing the life-changing impact of Toastmasters

January is our reset and our runway.
It’s the moment where we decide to finish strong — not just individually, but together.

District 44, the second half of the year is ours to shape. Let’s show up with intention. Let’s show up with excellence. Let’s show up ready to lead, grow, and transform lives — starting with our own.

Because when you show up, we all rise.

District 44… it’s time to SHOW UP.

With excitement for what lies ahead,

DTM Yolonda Jay
District 44 Director, 2025–2026