The Public Service Toastmasters Club’s newly elected nine member executive board has commenced its duties.

The board was sworn in at a Celebration Gala that culminated in what was said to be an exciting first year for the club

Deputy Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr. David D. Archer, Jr lauded the Club’s success, stating that he was excited to have watched the Virgin Islands Public Service Toastmasters Club make such a strong start in its first year.

Mr Archer Jr. said, “The acclaim it has already received from Toastmasters International is a signal of the unique talent of our public officers who I am proud to see are benefiting from the establishment of the Club. Establishing opportunities, such as this Club, to enhance the professional and personal growth of public officers is of paramount importance.”

Acting Financial Secretary, Mr. Jeremiah Frett also extended congratulations to the Club on achieving the President’s Distinguish Club Award during its inaugural year.  He said that he was immensely proud to be part of the enlightened group of public officers who took advantage of the opportunity to improve their leadership and communication skills. 

“I observed the growth of officers who actively participated in this most effective and inexpensive provider of dynamic, high-value, experiential communication and leadership skills development program,” Mr. Frett said.

He added, “The transformation was evident in helping to improve both professional and personal lives of public officers. Consequently, the Government benefited from the improved quality of service delivered to customers.”

At the Celebration Gala held on Saturday June 4, members received Certificates issued by Toastmasters International inducting them as official Charter Members of the Virgin Islands Public Service Toastmasters Club. Awards were presented to club members who completed activities within 11 different areas of focus such as Persuasive Influence, Effective Coaching and Motivational Strategies. 

The VI Public Service Toastmasters Club was also recognised by Toastmasters International as having reached the “Select Distinguished” level, which is awarded to clubs that meet seven of the ten annual goals.  The club was the first new organisation to ever be recognised at this level internationally and has now since attained an even higher level of “President’s Distinguished” after meeting nine goals total.

The outgoing board included: President, Mr. Joshua Edwards; Vice President of Education, Mr. Benson Tyson; Assistant Vice President of Education, Dr. Arliene T. Penn; Vice President of Membership, Ms. Lorna Stevens; Vice President of Public Relations, Ms. Sharie-Ann Stapleton; Secretary, Ms. Nerissia Henley; Treasurer, Mrs. Akilah Forde-Vanterpool; Assistant Treasurer, Ms. Tashima Stoutt; and Sergeant at Arms, Ms. Kayana Joseph.

They are succeeded by: President, Ms. Sharie-Ann Stapleton; Vice President of Education, Mr. Benson Tyson; Assistant Vice President of Education, Ms. Simera Durante; Vice President of Membership, Ms. Rena George; Vice President of Public Relations, Ms. Kedimone Rubaine; Secretary, Mrs. Symone Penn; Treasurer, Mr. Emery Che Pemberton; Sergeant at Arms, Mr. Zebalon McLean; and Immediate Past President, Mr. Joshua Edwards.

The Virgin Islands Public Service Toastmasters Club was realised through the partnership of the Deputy Governor’s Office, the Department of Human Resources and the Tortola Toastmasters Club. 

In July of 2021, the Public Service Toastmasters Club was officially launched with a total of 28 public officers registered as members. These public officers recognised the potential to develop their leadership and communication skills and took full advantage of the opportunity to upskill and expand their professional repertoire.

Public officers interested in joining the club are invited to contact the Vice President of Membership Ms. Rena George at 468-2008 or rgeorge@gov.vg.