THE POWER OF THE FLAG

by Khalid Jalal, Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM)
Program Quality Director (PQD) – District 20 (2024-2025)

As I stood on the grand stage of the Toastmasters International Convention 2024 in Anaheim, LA, with the flag of our beloved country of District 20, Kuwait, in my hands, a wave of pride and honour washed over me. Representing District 20, and Kuwait in particular, at such a prestigious event was an experience that I will cherish forever.

Toastmasters International Convention (2024)

The convention brought together Toastmasters from all corners of the globe, each carrying the spirit of their respective countries. Amidst this diverse gathering, holding the Kuwaiti flag high was a moment of immense pride. It symbolised not just my personal journey, but also the collective efforts and achievements of all the Toastmasters in District 20.
The atmosphere was electric, filled with the energy of passionate speakers and leaders. As I marched with the flag, I felt a deep connection to District 20 countries and a profound sense of responsibility to represent our countries in District 20 with dignity and grace. The cheers and applause from the audience were a testament to the unity and camaraderie that Toastmasters fosters among its members.

Semi-finals (World Championship of Public Speaking) 2024

This experience was more than just a ceremonial duty; it was a reflection of the values that Toastmasters instils in us – leadership, communication, and the TI Core values. It reminded me of the importance of our mission to empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.
I am grateful for the opportunity to carry the flag of Kuwait and to be a part of such an inspiring event. It has reinforced my commitment to continue contributing to the growth and success of our Toastmasters community in District 20. I look forward to sharing the insights and experiences gained from the convention with my fellow members and to inspire them to reach new heights in their Toastmasters journey.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me and to the Toastmasters International community for making this experience unforgettable.

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Khalid Jalal, DTM is well known name in IT industry and among CIO peers. He is among one of the founder members who introduced Artificial Intelligence initiatives in Bahrain and played a key role in spreading awareness about Artificial Intelligence. Being experienced in IT Management, Artificial Intelligence, Project Management, Governance-Risk-Compliance (GRC), Business Continuity and Resilience, Supply Chain Management, IT & Business Strategist, he is also a certified trainer.
Khalid Joined Toastmasters in February 2018 and served various EXCOM roles in various clubs. He served District 20 with various roles as well – He was Area Director TWICE, He was awarded the Division Director Award for the term 2020-2021 for his role as Division C Director. He served District 20 as the Club Growth Director during the term 2021-2022. As a visionary leader, Khalid Jalal, DTM was instrumental in chartering 13 clubs, revived more than 5 club, introduced more than 400 individuals to Toastmasters (in District 20), Officially and successfully coached and mentored 6 clubs, supported more than 35 members towards their DTM achievements, and still mentoring members through his MENTOR 360 Program since past several years. 
Currently He is serving District 20 as Program Quality Director (PQD), empowering Divisions, Areas and Clubs in their journey towards Excellence.

One Response

  1. Dear Members,

    Toastmaster’s international membership is an opportunity to discover ourselves in terms of leadership and communication.
    To add to it , it’s a wonderful platform to polish your skills , for instance , dynamic leadership, leadership development, visionary Communication, presentation mastery, strategies planning, Team collaboration, persuasive communication etc , through learning by doing method.
    To Conclude , it helps you understand about your yourself from others point of view and improve as per your connivence, pace and time.
    So your life time growth are in your hands.

    DTM Hemlata Singh