
Michael Bown, DTM
ILC Nominated Candidate
International Director from Region 1
Empowering Voices, Inspiring Leaders: A Global Network for Transformative Growth
When I close my eyes and imagine Toastmasters in 10 years I see:
Accessibility: A world where everyone has access to a Toastmasters program regardless their location, background, abilities and beliefs. Enhanced support for meeting formats and multilingual resources to meet the needs of more individuals. I imagine a world with accessibility in underserved communities through various initiatives including strategic partnerships and continuing to promote the Ralph C. Smedley Memorial fund.
Quality: Every leader has the training, tools and resources to lead a team in their area of responsibility to distinguished recognition. Every member has access to an innovative educational program and mentorship from members who deeply understand our purpose. Individuals want to join and remain in Toastmasters because they understand our purpose and experience continuous growth in themselves.
Sustainability: As an organization we are able to diversify our funding sources, further invest in technology to leverage new tools and promote continuous improvement to offer more services without adding costs to our membership. Our organization thrives in accessibility and quality because proceses are optimized and we lead in innovation.
Toastmasters Experience
- 2022-2023 Presidential Citation
- 2020-2021 District 21 Toastmaster of the Year
- 2020-2021 Immediate Past District Director
- 2019-2020 District Director – District Online Ovation Gold Award (only district in the world to achieve)
- 2018-2019 Program Quality Director – Excellence in Program Quality
- 2016-2017 Club Growth Director
- 2015-2016 Division Director
About Michael Bown, DTM
Michael was born in Canada and has been endlessly curious since childhood. Growing up, he spent countless hours exploring the woods near his home, uncovering hidden remnants of the past. As a teenager, meeting fellow students from around the world sparked his fascination with different cultures and languages, fueling a lifelong passion for travel.
This passion led Michael to live and work in Hong Kong, China, during his early adult years, opening doors to meaningful connections and adventures across Asia and Oceania. Although he eventually returned to his native Canada, Michael has never lost his sense of adventure. He continues to explore the world with curiosity, regularly traveling to experience its wonders firsthand.
When not traveling, Michael enjoys walking around his local community in Victoria, British Columbia. He actively contributes to community events and volunteers as an election official at all levels of government. Michael credits his spouse, Jojo, for inspiring his successes and challenging him to grow every day.