District 112 Toastmasters
Thriving to Excellence
In celebration of Toastmasters' 100 Years, join us to meet the exceptional District 112 Toastmasters member, Lauren Parsons. Lauren is a passionate Toastmaster and professional speaker dedicated to helping people thrive. She was awarded Keynote Speaker of the Year and Educator of the Year 2023/24 by the Professional Speakers Association of NZ. A Toastmaster since 2014, Lauren is a TEDx speaker, author of "Thriving Leaders Thriving Teams" and "Real Food Less Fuss," and host of the Thrive TV Show.
Lauren's unique approach integrates her wellness and business background, empowering organizations to create positive, energized cultures where people and teams flourish. Based in rural Manawatu, she lives with her husband, three children, and a variety of animals. After experiencing the devastating flooding caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, Lauren is delighted to be home and often hosts dinner parties, plays board games, and enjoys outdoor activities. Join us to celebrate this milestone and be inspired by Lauren's journey and insights.
When did you join Toastmasters and which club do you belong to?
Lauren: I first joined Toastmasters when we moved to Canberra, Australia, and joined a monthly dinner club that always had themed meetings full of wit and humour – it was so much fun I was quickly hooked.
Since then, I’ve been a founding member of Silverstream Toastmasters in Upper Hutt, president of Talk of the Town and PN Advanced in Palmerston North, and a member of Ottawa Toastmasters and Ottawa Advanced Toastmasters in District 61 in Canada.
It’s been a wonderful journey, and as we’ve moved around due to my husband’s military postings, each new club has felt like coming ‘home’ to ‘family.’
An interactive keynote session in Ottawa Canada
A photo of Lauren and her three daughters on the driveway of their lifestyle property
LAUREN’S SOURCE OF STRENGTH AND INSPIRATION
Lauren makes sure her children grasp the advantages of joining Toastmasters, as she aims to be their role model.
What have you learned about Toastmasters, and how does it help you with your personal goals or career growth?
The thing I love most about Toastmasters (other than the fantastic people) is the supportive feedback that is so valuable in helping us improve I can test out little 7minute sections of presentations and make them exponentially better It’s a beautiful, safe space. There’s also nothing better than having a good laugh together and being inspired by seeing people grow at club meetings.
Your Inspirations
There are so many inspirations! I've been deeply moved by the journeys of several World Champions of Public Speaking, some of whom are still striving towards that goal Witnessing their dedication and hard work behind the scenes is truly amazing Teri Kingston has been a significant inspiration to me We met through the Ottawa Advanced Club, and she mentored me for my TEDx talk, which is her specialty I highly recommend Teri.
My clients also inspire me. I love working with passionate leaders who care about their people and aim to improve their workplace culture to boost staff well-being. That brings me immense joy Most of all, my family inspires me especially my children. Seeing them, their friends, and the younger generation coming through, I am motivated to leave a legacy of positive impact, making their world a better place.
CONGRATULATIONS, LAUREN!
YOU'VE MADE DISTRICT 112 PROUD!
Lauren will be heading to the International Convention and participating in level 2 of the Accredited Speaker Programme. She will present on Friday, 16th August, aiming to become the first Accredited Speaker in New Zealand
Aspirations
This year, I’ll participate in level 2 of the Accredited Speaker Programme, presenting live at the International Convention to become the first Accredited Speaker in New Zealand. To achieve this, I need to deliver an exceptional 15-18 minute presentation and be passed by five judges, so it’s a big challenge to aim for. I have been preparing for that over the months leading up to the convention and hope to represent New Zealand well
Lauren has had six articles featured in the Toastmaster magazine "Lead Like a Master Gardener," appeared in the April 2024 issue, discussing how successful teams need the same 12 conditions as healthy plants in order to thrive
"Cultivate a Culture of Belonging," was featured in the July 2024 issue, outlining seven ways leaders can ensure people feel connected Additionally, in March 2019, Lauren's article "How I Prepared for 18 Make-or-Break Minutes" delved into the behind-the-scenes preparation for her TEDx Talk
LAURENHAS WRITTENSIX ARTICLESTHAT HAVEBEEN FEATUREDINTHE TOASTMASTERS INTERNATIONAL MAGAZINE.
Lauren, a District 112 Toastmasters member, contributes valuable articles to Toastmasters Magazine, offering guidance and inspiration to support leadership and personal growth within the district
“IFYOUKNOWHOWTODOTHINGS,YOUWILLALWAYS HAVEAJOB.IFYOUKNOWWHYYOUDOTHEM,YOUWILL ALWAYSBEALEADER.”
STRIVEMASIYIWA,FOUNDEROFECONET
Greetings D112 Toastmasters,
My name is Kenneth Gustilo, and I am the current District 112 Public Relations Manager It is my privilege to feature your incredible stories, achievements, and memories as we celebrate 100 years of Toastmasters I am deeply inspired by your journeys and accomplishments Your stories are what make our district vibrant and unique, and I am excited to bring them to light
Through our very own District 112 Toastmasters Magazine, we have a special platform dedicated to you. This magazine is not just a publication; it is a celebration of our community, a testament to our shared journey, and a showcase of the incredible talent and dedication within our district. Each issue is crafted with care to highlight the achievements and inspirations of our members, making it a piece of art that reflects the heart and soul of District 112
I encourage you to share your stories, your triumphs, and the moments that have defined your Toastmasters journey with me Whether it's a personal achievement, a memorable event, or an inspiring lesson learned, your story deserves to be told Together, we can inspire others and celebrate the collective success of our district
Please share your stories with me, and I will ensure they are featured in the District 112 Toastmasters Magazine This is a unique opportunity to share your great news not only within our district but also with your family and friends. Let’s make this centennial celebration memorable by showcasing the incredible journeys of our members.
Kenneth Gustilo Public Relations Manager 2024- 2025
District Director Richard Perkins
District 112 Toastmasters New Zealand North 2024-2025
D112 MILESTONE
