An interview with Leticia Sanchez Vega – Division D Director
Embarking on her Toastmasters journey with zeal and commitment, Leticia Sanchez Vega, has not only embraced the art of public speaking but has also inspired several people in her role of Division Director not once, but twice. In a candid exploration of her inspiring voyage, we posed few questions, unraveling the threads of her passion, perseverance, and the invaluable lessons she’s gleaned along the way. Join us as we delve into the transformative narrative of a Toastmaster who not only speaks eloquently but leads divisions with a profound dedication to the craft.
How and where did your Toastmasters journey begin?
My Toastmasters journey started in mid 2019 when I visited a Toastmaster club because a mentor from work persuaded me to explore Toastmasters so I could improve my public speaking skills.
The first club that I visited was located right across the road from my office. I vividly remember the warm/friendly welcome, the safe environment and the supportive atmosphere of the members that made me wanting to come back to the next and following meetings.
The meeting time did not work for me in this first club so then I visited Danforth Pape Toastmasters Club where I experienced the same atmosphere as the first club that I decided to join this club.
In summary, the healthy atmosphere that I experienced at TM from the first time I visited it and continue experiencing made me want to be part of this organization for many years to come.
What inspired you to take up the role of Division Director twice?
During the first months a Division Director, I used to feel intimidated and terrified about having impromptu speaking in meetings with my team of Area Directors.
With the support of my mentor Andrew Mertens, in every meeting or when visiting clubs, I noticed that I was gaining confidence and very soon my first full year was over.
At the same time I realized that as Division Director, I have the opportunity to help others become a better version of themselves as a leaders, speakers or as new members at Toastmasters.
Overall, I took the Division Director role because one year was not enough to for me to develop my Leadership skills and to help others.
Professionally, you are an Operations Manager. Where do you see your professional world meeting the Toastmasters world?
When I initially joined Toastmasters, I thought that I was here to improve my public meeting skills; however, as I volunteered to take the Area Director and Division Director role twice, I learned that Toastmasters is beyond the first skill. Both worlds meet in my Leadership and Public Speaking skills.
My transformation from the time Toastmasters to today has been incredible, when I joined, I used to be shy, today my colleagues and boss say that I speak with assertiveness and clarity. In regards to my Leadership skills, I have learned to be patient, tactful and resourceful to my team.
As a first-generation immigrant from Mexico, how has your cultural background influenced your approach to leadership and community engagement within Toastmasters in District 60?
Colleagues and friends often say that my energy is contagious and I am friendly. I’d say that these 2 attributes are my strengths that come from my Mexican background and I use them to build connections and in some cases bring the energy that meetings at times need.
How do you manage your time commitment given your leadership roles at work and in Toastmasters?
Knowing that I can bring value to someone else’s life by either speaking to them about the possibility of working/improving their public speaking/leadership skills here at Toastmasters, by mentoring other fellow Toastmasters by giving them feedback or by supporting my team of Area Directors/clubs and I in return get to work with great mentors not only on matters related to TM but in other areas of my life, all of this interaction, brings joy to my life.
So my commitment to Toastmasters does not feel like a chore, it feels that is my passion to help others.
What do you do outside of Toastmasters and Work?
I love working out, right now I swim and I am preparing to run a marathon in early 2024.
I also spend time listening to audiobooks about Leadership and Professional Development.
Last but not least, I always make to sure to make time for shopping.. dresses!!
What message would you like to leave our readers with?
Showing up for Toastmasters is probably 50% of the hard work, the other 50% is accomplished by working on your speeches and be brave to take a leadership role, this organization provides plenty of support to those who want to become better leaders.
I highly encourage you to take all the benefits to Toastmaster offers to you.
To all fellow Toastmasters keep up the great work and happy holidays.
Cheers !
