My First District 90 Awards – From Chaos to Celebration
I recently attended my very first District 90 Awards and getting there was nothing short of a marathon.
With both major train lines down, my “simple” journey turned into two buses, one train, and a very late arrival. By the time I finally walked into Hornsby RSL club, I was tired, flustered, and honestly ready to disappear quietly into the back row.
But Toastmasters don’t let you hide.
Instead, I was warmly waved over by our Western Division Director, Seema (also my fellow club member) and our club past President, Dhammika. Suddenly, I found myself in the second row—not the shadows—just in time to see Blacktown City Toastmasters being celebrated.
I was so proud to see my home club recognised for:
Bob Kitchener Award
55 years serving members
District 90 2024–2025 10/10 DCP
Club Leadership Training Award 2024–2025 – 7 executives trained, rounds 1 & 2
District 90 2024–2025 Mastery Award (2,4,6,8 DCP)
Home club of the 2025–2026 Division Director – Congratulations Seema!
Home club of the 2025–2026 Area Director – Congratulations Dhammika!
What Inspired Me?
As someone in just my second year of Toastmasters, I’m still learning the ins and outs. Last year was a steep learning curve, but last night opened my eyes to something bigger.
What struck me most were the members honoured for 10, 20, 30—even 35 years of service. That’s decades of giving back, lifting others, and shaping voices. Truly inspiring.
I came hoping to meet new people. I left with so much more:
Pride in my club’s achievements
Gratitude for the warmest welcome
Inspiration from leaders who dedicate decades to this community
Special Congratulations
A huge shoutout to:
Kalinga Wijeyewardene – Division Director of the Year 2024-2025
Ramalka Kasige – Area Director of the Year 2024-2025
Jan Cummings – Toastmaster of the Year 2024-2025
And heartfelt thank you to Pieta and the 2024–25 executive team, and Ramani with the incoming 2025–26 leaders.
I may have walked in late, hoping not to be noticed…but I walked out feeling proud, connected, and inspired.
Written by Kaarthika Varathan | Reviewed by Ramalka Kasige DTM
