District Director’s message at the Final District 90 AD/Div D Training

It is truly special to see you all here - our Division Directors, our Area Directors, our leadership team - and our Past District Directors who have joined us today.

To our Past District Directors - thank you. You guided District 90 through its formative years, through growth and change, shaping the culture we stand in today. Because of you, District 90 has strength, character, and heart. We stand on your shoulders.

Today is significant. I do not like to call it “the last ever.” I prefer to see it as a moment of honouring who we have been, and carrying that strength forward into what comes next.

Our District has never just been structures and reports. It has always been about people. About commitment. About leaders who quietly step up when something needs to be done.

I would like to acknowledge some of those leaders.

• Nellie - for your steady Program Quality leadership and your calm wisdom.

• Elizabeth - for your drive, your courage, and your commitment to growth.

Our quiet anchors

• Margaret, who keeps us organised and moving.

• Bob, who ensures we stay aligned with process and governance.

• Tanya, who safeguards our finances with diligence and care.

• Ramalka and the Public Relations team - for ensuring our District’s activities are visible and communicated, thank you.

• Pieta, our Immediate Past District Director - thank you for your steady guidance and support this year.

  And

• Jan V - for your integrity, your counsel, and for always in your gentle manner, reminding me of the bigger picture.

Leadership is never a solo act. I am deeply grateful to serve alongside all of you.

I also want to briefly address a question many members have written to us about - the Acknowledgement of Country.

Toastmasters is a global educational organisation. We do not mandate political or cultural statements. At the same time, we are built on respect. Clubs may choose to include an acknowledgement if it reflects their community. Others may choose not to. Our role is not to prescribe - but to support. We remain neutral, respectful, and focused on, member growth.

On alignment - work continues collaboratively between both Districts. The conversations have been professional and forward-looking. Stability for clubs and clarity for members remain our priority. We will communicate transparently as decisions are finalised.

Finally, leadership continuity matters. Interviews for next year’s District leadership roles are underway. I encourage each of you to familiarise yourselves with the governing documents and understand the responsibilities of the roles you serve — and perhaps the roles you may serve in the future.

We finish this year not with an ending - but with responsibility.

Area Directors. Division Directors. You are the bridge between District and club. What you do matters. The culture we carry forward depends on how we lead now.

Together we build. Together we become.

Thank you for your leadership - and for the legacy we continue to shape.

.

Ramani Warusevitane, DTM - District Director - District 90