5 Questions With Richard E. Peck, DTM

When welcome mats were rolled up in 2020, then-International President Richard E. Peck, DTM, got creative with his club visits. To provide a sense of connection and to better understand members’ needs, he launched an unprecedented virtual world tour, and visited online clubs in 143 countries. This month, we asked him about the global aspect of Toastmasters and his unique perspective on the value of an international community.

What stands out to you about Toastmasters International’s culture?

According to UNESCO, culture is the collective beliefs, values, customs, and practices that characterize a particular group or society. It shapes how individuals perceive the world. With that in mind, the overall culture of Toastmasters is that of betterment. This is exemplified through individual growth and a commitment to helping others reach their goals.

How does interacting with members from different cultures make someone a better communicator?

Our words and body language, as well as the messages we try to convey, are not always interpreted as we intend. If we do not take the time to really understand the individuals that we are interacting with, it is difficult, if not impossible, to make a strong connection.

How has the international nature of Toastmasters enriched your life?

It has not only provided me with the opportunity to understand the world around me better, but to understand myself better. It has helped fuel my passion for understanding cultures and what makes individuals unique. Toastmasters has allowed me to develop the skills to become a truly global citizen and cultural ambassador.

What are the biggest benefits members gain from our cultural diversity?

Their journey is unique to them, and there is a community there to support them along the way. Our differences shouldn’t separate us, they should unite us. Cultural awareness is bidirectional; not only do we need to understand what we see and hear, we also need to understand how what we say and do is perceived. Finally, through online platforms the world has gotten a little smaller and our ability to make an impact has gotten greater.

How can members take advantage of Toastmasters’ global network?

Take a virtual world tour! I’m not saying to visit 143 countries like I did, but rather use Find A Club to find clubs anywhere in the world that are meeting in a hybrid format and ask if you can join a meeting. Immerse yourself by taking a role and ask members to tell you about themselves and their country. No passport needed, no lost luggage, only a time zone to overcome.

Attend the Toastmasters International Convention. At convention, you meet and hang out with members from our global community. You experience the international breadth of our organization through the Parade of Flags, after-parties, and many networking opportunities.

---

Share this article