Valeska Laurant, a new Distinguished Toastmaster on St. Maarten. She earned the highest educational recognition offered by the Toastmasters.
PHILIPSBURG--St. Maarten’s Valeska Laurant has been awarded the Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) designation, the highest educational recognition offered by Toastmasters International.
Laurant, who joined Toastmasters in 2018, was recognised for her continued work in communication, leadership and personal development as well as her contributions to other members of the organisation.
During her Toastmasters journey, Laurant has held several leadership positions. She served as Area Director during the 2021-2022 programme year and later as Division I Director for District 81 during the 2023-2024 programme year.
She currently serves as Vice President Education of the Caribbean Pearls Toastmasters Club, Vice President Public Relations of the Philipsburg Toastmasters Club and Division D Council Programme Quality Assistant.
As part of her DTM journey, Laurant recently organised the DTM Project SXM Scavenger Hunt, which brought Toastmasters members from St. Maarten/St. Martin and Anguilla together for an afternoon of learning, teamwork and fellowship.
The achievement marks what Laurant described as a period of growth and stepping outside her comfort zone, allowing her to develop new skills and confidence both personally and professionally. She also expressed gratitude to her mentors, support team and fellow Toastmasters members for their encouragement throughout the process.
The Distinguished Toastmaster designation recognises Laurant’s years of involvement in Toastmasters and her work in leadership and mentorship within the organisation and community.
