KEYNOTE
SPEAKERS
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
James Dakin
Standing at 6’7” with a presence as powerful as his message, James Dakin has spent 35+ years transforming lives. From coaching corporate leaders at Virgin Atlantic to mentoring the next generation of conscious leaders, he is known as ‘The Coach’s Coach’ and ‘The Billion Dollar Coach.’ His talks blend deep insight with irreverent humor, delivering piercing truths and unforgettable inspiration. Get ready to challenge your limits and step into your fullest potential!
Sabrya Carim
With a PhD in Cell Biology, Dr. Sabrya Carim is a science editor at Nature Cell Biology and a passionate advocate for women in STEM. A Toastmaster for 8 years, she’s committed to empowering the next generation of diverse leaders. Her talks challenge limiting beliefs and encourage embracing resilience, inspiring you to break barriers and redefine your path to success!
Clinton Jordan
From sharing stages with legends like Mariah Carey and Celine Dion to performing at The Royal Wedding, Clinton Jordan knows the power of voice. His game-changing ‘Trust Tripod’ method bridges singing and public speaking, unlocking confidence in corporate and community spaces alike. With a mission to activate 1 million voices by 2025, this is your chance to be inspired and unleash your own!
Jillian Haslam
From growing up in poverty to becoming a successful banking executive, Jillian Haslam’s journey is a powerful testament to resilience. With over 23 years in the industry, she now helps others overcome adversity through motivational speaking and coaching. Her program, “The Irrepressible Mind,” empowers individuals and organizations to conquer challenges, unlock potential, and transform setbacks into success!
Michelle Moore
Known for sparking courageous conversations, she brings truth, power, and purpose to the stage. Michelle is an award-winning speaker, executive coach, and author of Real Wins, with a global track record in leadership, inclusion, and change. Her impact spans boardrooms, sports arenas, and global institutions — and she’s here to challenge, inspire, and ignite transformation in every listener.
WORKSHOP
LEADERS
WORKSHOP LEADERS
Violeta Saladiene
With over seven years of lecturing in Sales and Marketing, a decade in business development, and five years as a Crown Court interpreter, Violeta brings a unique blend of experience to the stage. As president of Shilling Speakers and co-host of the Shilling Speakers Podcast, she’s honed her ability to communicate complex ideas under pressure. In 2024, Violeta placed 3rd in the District 91 Humorous Speech Contest and was a semi-finalist in the District 71 International Speech Contest.
Meena Raj
A master of Bharatanatyam and Carnatic Music, Meena Raj is dedicated to preserving and promoting Indian culture through dance and music. As the founder of Varna Arts, she has mentored numerous students to success, guiding them to complete their Arangetrams and perform at prestigious venues. Featured in Asian Lite as one of the most inspirational women for mastering these art forms later in life, Meena’s passion continues to inspire the next generation of artists to embrace and excel in these traditions!
Alexander Pemberton
Founder of Launch 7 and Tecric, Alexander Pemberton specializes in helping pre-start-ups and start-ups develop, launch, and acquire customers quickly. With a background in software development and market research, he has worked across industries to help businesses grow. Passionate about empowering entrepreneurs, Alexander has led workshops at top universities and continues to inspire others to discover and harness their unique gifts for success!
Heather Bellin
An expert in ‘everything human,’ Heather Bellin has spent 25 years transforming leadership and workplace culture worldwide. As the founder of Allegra Impact, she empowers leaders and organizations to thrive by enhancing trust, emotional intelligence, and engagement. Fluent in five languages and an accredited executive coach, she has partnered with CEOs and senior leaders across sectors, from public health to data science. Her dynamic, insightful, and inspiring talks challenge audiences to navigate complexity and unlock their full potential.
Hazel Glennie
A qualified medical doctor who left medicine to start a family and support her husband at CERN, Dr. Hazel Glennie now runs the Gerontius Amenity Fund in Sierra Leone, providing healthcare to those in need. A member of Abingdon Speakers Club for 10 years, Hazel found her passion for public speaking when a friend encouraged her to join Toastmasters. She’s now the Club President and continues to inspire others, bringing her vitality and energy to every session she leads!
FEATURED
SPEAKERS
FEATURED SPEAKERS
James Bargeron
A performance specialist with 30 years of experience in global oil transportation negotiations, James Bargeron now focuses on helping professionals and leaders enhance performance and thrive in high-pressure environments. His expertise drives individuals and teams to excel, even in the most challenging settings, improving both productivity and overall success.
Sam Ortyl
A certified mental health educator, speaker, and podcaster, Sam Ortyl advocates for emotional resilience and authentic self-expression. With lived experience and professional expertise, he helps individuals and organizations navigate stress, anxiety, and mental well-being. Sam uses public speaking as a powerful tool for healing and growth, inspiring others to embrace the spotlight, share their stories, and thrive both personally and professionally.
Lilian Nandi
With a PhD in Computer Modelling, Lilian has spent years teaching Python, C#, and JavaScript to the next generation of programmers. A former Head of Computer Science, she reshaped the department and created over 75 educational YouTube videos, with 12,000+ views worldwide. Lilian believes that technology is the key to transforming our future and empowering young people to thrive in the digital age!
FEATURED
SPEAKERS
Gosia Syta
With a talent for turning communication into impact, she helps professionals speak with confidence and lead with presence. Gosia is a leadership communication trainer, award-winning speaker, and founder of Walk Your Talk. Known for her engaging style and practical insights, she’s here to host a high-impact panel — packed with honest stories, fresh ideas, and tools you’ll want to use immediately.
Priyanka Bhattacharya
With two decades in cybersecurity and a passion for inclusion, she blends deep technical expertise with purpose-driven leadership. Priyanka is a Principal Security Consultant at Verizon, a global speaker, and a fierce advocate for women in STEM. Known for inspiring change across industries, she brings sharp insight, lived experience, and a voice that champions resilience, representation, and real impact.
Helen Honisett
Known for leading with love, integrity, and results, she brings bold ideas and real-world success to every conversation. Helen is CEO of Defy Expectations and author of the book by the same name, inspiring leaders to transform teams through trust. With global experience in sales, leadership, and organisational change, she’s here to share powerful insights that challenge the norm — and deliver impact.
Penny Wilkie
With global finance expertise and a passion for transformation, she helps people and organisations lead through change with confidence. Penny is a seasoned Toastmaster and respected change advocate, known for blending insight with empathy. Backed by over a decade of experience, she brings clarity, calm, and courage to conversations — empowering others to embrace growth and lead with purpose.
MASTERS
OF
CEREMONIES
MASTERS OF CEREMONIES
Chris Binns
A high-energy Wedding DJ and Master of Ceremonies, Chris brings people together through music, storytelling, and unforgettable moments. Known for his infectious enthusiasm and smooth mic skills, he also serves as the current SAA at Berkeley Square Speakers. With a natural ability to lift a room and create instant connections, Chris is here to help kickstart the D91 Conference with an exciting and engaging start!
Lydia McDowall
With a deep passion for empowering others, Confidence Coach and Mentor Lydia helps women overcome fear, find their voice, and step boldly into leadership. Her background in project management and heart for service bring warmth, clarity, and calm assurance to every stage she steps on. As a long-standing member of Speakers of Croydon, Lydia is here to guide us through the D91 Conference with poise, connection, and uplifting energy.
Chris Boden
A seasoned Toastmaster since 2007, Chris brings sharp wit, quick thinking, and championship-level speaking to the stage. With twelve District finals under his belt and wins across International Speech, Table Topics, and Evaluation, he knows how to own a mic. When he’s not doing improv or engineering the future of renewable energy, he’s sparking energy in every room he enters.
Pearl Cadogan
Known for her dedication to leadership and community service, she brings a wealth of experience from both the healthcare world and Toastmasters. As the current Division H Director and co-founder of Liberty Speakers, her passion for empowering others shines through every role she takes on. With a heart for service, a gift for connection, and an unstoppable spirit, she’s here to guide us with wisdom, warmth, and purpose.
MASTERS
OF
CEREMONIES
Earleesha Jackson
A vibrant speaker and host, she transforms fear into fearless presence. Known for her infectious energy and magnetic stage style, Earleesha blends confidence coaching with charisma to create moments that inspire and uplift. As a certified Inner Work Coach and proud member of Hamwic Speakers, she brings humour, heart, and high vibes to every event — making the stage feel like home.
Simon McKee
Since joining Toastmasters in 2019, he’s grown into a dynamic speaker and leader, known for his persistence, humour, and drive. A former president of London Athenians and current Assistant Division B Director, Simon brings both experience and charisma to the stage. Having finally reached the District finals after many close calls, he’s ready to deliver with heart, humour, and style.
Hephzibah Emereole
Bringing global experience, vibrant energy, and a passion for people, she lights up every space she enters. From tech for social good in Ghana to strategic consulting across continents, Hephzibah blends innovation with heart. As District 91’s Club Growth Marketing Director and a proud Toastmaster, she’s here to energise the stage, connect the community, and make this conference truly unforgettable.
Adam Paldyna
With a voice made for the stage and energy that fills the room, he brings passion, presence, and performance to every moment. From theatre and teaching to music and mentoring, Adam channels his talents to inspire others. A dedicated Excalibur Speaker and seasoned contest host, he blends bold delivery with heartfelt connection — ready to uplift and entertain at every turn.
