Joining Toastmasters in 2025 at just 22, he began as a shy newcomer determined to improve his communication. Through consistency and courage, he went on to win the District 91 Humorous Speech Contest and now serves as President of Reading Speakers. Working in tech sales and building startups, he enjoys pushing his limits and connecting with others — so feel free to say hello.
David Jones is a professional speaker and runs a communications training company. He specialises in presentation skills for execs, writing skills for university researchers, and editing speeches for other speakers. David performs and teaches stand-up comedy. He’s been in 12 District finals, winning Table Topics six times. He has a PhD in zoology, spent 20 years as an ecologist, and still does research at the Natural History Museum.
Meena Raj, Artistic Director of Varna Arts, is a Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music performer and teacher with over 15 years of experience. Trained under renowned gurus in India and the UK, she shares classical arts with diverse audiences. She has performed internationally, including at the UK Houses of Parliament and the European Parliament. Recognised as an inspirational woman, she continues to nurture talent while preserving tradition through Varna Arts.
Alice Ekonomou is a speaker with 15+ years of global marketing experience across Europe, Asia and the Middle East. She helps leaders and ambitious professionals communicate with certainty when it matters most — pitching ideas, speaking on stage or leading a room. Combining strategy, storytelling and performance psychology, Alice shows how ambition, clarity and balance can coexist even in high-pressure moments.
Speech Title: High Performance Without Burnout