The Virgin Islands (VI) delegation made a powerful impression at the Toastmasters District 81 Caribbean Conference, held from May 14-18, 2025. Photo: BVI Toastmasters

Rea Vanterpool, left, hailing from Virgin Gorda, of the VIPS Toastmasters Club emerged as the 2nd Place Winner in the Division E International Speech Contest. The VI delegation also connected with fellow Toastmasters from Anguilla, Antigua, St Kitts and Nevis, and Montserrat, all part of Division E under the leadership of Division E Director Camille T. Merry, right. Photo: BVI Toastmasters

Ms. Yvonne Thomas, left, Past Division E Director, received the prestigious Division Director of the Year Award for 2023-2024 and was honored for leading a President’s Distinguished Division. Photo: BVI Toastmasters

Ms Yvonne Thomas, left, with Sharie-Ann Stapleton, Area Director for Area 27 (VI and USVI). Stapleton was named Area Director of the Year and celebrated for leading Area 27 to President’s Distinguished status. Photo: BVI Toastmasters

Not only did VI Toastmasters attend and receive awards, but they played a vital role in the success of the event, chairing speech contests, hosting the welcome ceremony, leading workshops, and serving as functionaries across all speech contests.

Their active participation underscored their commitment to excellence in leadership and communication, a press release from BVI Toastmasters Club stated.

Representing the VI at the conference were nine members from three “outstanding” clubs: BVIEC Shockers, Tortola Toastmasters, and the VI Public Service Toastmasters Club.

Club Achievements

The VI’s Toastmasters clubs were recognised for their exceptional accomplishments:

• BVIEC Shockers received awards for being a Distinguished Club in the 2023-2024 Toastmasters year, led by Melony C. James, and for doubling their Pathway goals in 2024-2025.
• Tortola Toastmasters earned accolades for achieving President’s Distinguished status in 2023-2024 while being led by Kristal Collins.
• VI Public Service Toastmasters Club, led by Simera Durante, celebrated its President’s Distinguished Club recognition for 2023-2024. Additionally, VIPS received the Smedley Award for 2024-2025 for adding 10 new members, demonstrating their commitment to growth and mentorship.

Achieving President’s Distinguished status is the highest recognition a Toastmasters club or leadership entity can attain. It reflects a dedication to leadership, educational excellence, and the successful development of members.

Individual Accomplishments

Beyond club honours, several VI Toastmasters stood out for their personal achievements:

• Ms Yvonne Thomas, Past Division E Director, received the prestigious Division Director of the Year Award for 2023-2024 and was honoured for leading a President’s Distinguished Division.
• Ms Sharie-Ann Stapleton, Area Director for Area 27 (VI and USVI), was named Area Director of the Year and celebrated for leading Area 27 to President’s Distinguished status.
• Rea Vanterpool, hailing from Virgin Gorda, of the VIPS Toastmasters Club emerged as the 2nd Place Winner in the Division E International Speech Contest.
• Area Directors were honoured for submitting their reports on time in the 1st and 2nd rounds, reflecting their dedication to effective administration and leadership.
• Several VI Toastmasters earned the prestigious Triple Crown Award, which recognises members who complete three educational achievements in a single Toastmasters year—a testament to their commitment to personal and professional growth.

Strengthening Leadership across the Caribbean

The VI delegation also connected with fellow Toastmasters from Anguilla, Antigua, St Kitts and Nevis, and Montserrat, all part of Division E under the leadership of Division E Director Camille T. Merry. Division E members showcased remarkable talent in various speech contests, reinforcing the strength of Toastmasters across the Caribbean.

Adding to VI’s legacy of leadership, Kristal Collins and Emery Che Pemberton were appointed as Area Directors within Division E, further solidifying the territory’s commitment to guiding and mentoring future leaders.

Looking Ahead

The BVIEC Shockers, Tortola Toastmasters, and VI Public Service Toastmasters Club are preparing to host a grand Gala in June 2025 under the theme "Royalty in Every Shade." This celebration will honour achievements, highlight the continued growth of the VI’s Toastmasters community, and inspire new members to embrace the transformative power of public speaking and leadership.