Achievers Toastmasters Club Marks 20 Years of Leadership Development in SVG 

By S.Browne. Updated 2:16 p.m., Monday,  June 1, 2026, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).

The Achievers Toastmasters Club held its Annual Awards and Dinner celebration on May 23, 2026 at Paradise Beach Hotel under the theme “Celebrating 20 Years Strong: Voices, Leadership and Legacy,” marking two decades of service in communication and leadership development in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The club, which was chartered on May 5 2006, holds the distinction of being the first Toastmasters club established in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Over the past 20 years, it has provided a structured platform for individuals to develop public speaking, leadership, and communication skills through the Toastmasters International framework.

Beyond its core club activities, Achievers Toastmasters has also played a role in youth development initiatives. These include the establishment of a Gavel Club, designed to introduce young people to the fundamentals of public speaking and leadership in a supportive environment, as well as the facilitation of the Youth Leadership Programme, which equips participants with practical skills in speech delivery, meeting participation, and leadership roles.

The anniversary event brought together members to reflect on the club’s journey while celebrating the achievements of the 2024–2025 Toastmasters year.

The ceremony was chaired by Master of Ceremonies St Clair Stapleton, DTM. Welcome remarks were delivered by Club President Sharlene Charle, who highlighted the importance of continued service, growth, and excellence. Brief remarks were also shared by Immediate Past President Dr Rhealyn Burke, who also served as the lead planner of the event.

As part of the milestone celebration, special recognition was given to charter members of the club, including Dr Francesca Burnham-Onu, DTM, who remains an active member and continues to contribute to the organisation’s development.

Awards presented during the evening included Level Completion Awards, Most Invited Guest Award, Best Tech Support Award, Most Supportive Award, Most Determined Award, Most Enthusiastic Award, Most Outstanding Member Award, and the prestigious Triple Crown Award, recognising members for their commitment and performance throughout the Toastmasters year.

One of the club’s longest-standing members, Barbara Soso, was unable to attend due to illness but had previously received a special recognition award at her residence in honour of her service and dedication to the club.

Guests were also entertained during the programme with a dance performance by Phileen Cambridge, followed by musical items from Gary Miller. Keisha Johnson also delivered a speech titled “My Love,” which was warmly received by those in attendance.

The vote of thanks was delivered by Sheryl Matthews, who expressed appreciation to sponsors, members, guests, and organisers for their contributions to the success of the evening.

The celebration concluded with the presentation of gifts and tokens of appreciation, followed by a buffet dinner.

The evening was described as a fitting tribute to two decades of service, fellowship, and leadership development within the Achievers Toastmasters Club.

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