‘A Symphony of People Building People.’ Just under two-hundred Toastmasters, friends, and family gathered at the Woodvale Facility and Clubhouse, Edmonton, on Friday, September 2023 to celebrate Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) and Past International President (PIP), Neil Wilkinson’s fifty (50) continuous years in the Toastmasters International organization. In attendance was the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, the Honourable Salma Lakhani, and her husband, His Honour, Dr. Zaheer Lakhani. The Keynote speaker was Daniel Rex, CEO, Toastmasters International. Other speakers included DTM Peter Kossowan, Sheila Weatherill, and the children (Sharon, Carey, and Blair) of Neil and Jean Wilkinson. Video tributes were given by several Past International Presidents and two members of Southern Lights Toastmasters Club who live in Japan, Ai Hatano, and Erika Tsunakawa. All the speakers spoke fondly about Neil’s journey in the Toastmasters organization, the corporate world and as a father. Very apparent is the respect everyone has for Neil, specifically his compassion, coaching, and leadership. When it was Neil’s turn to speak, he thanked his wife Jean, children, and grandchildren for their support during what he described as an incredible journey. A well-deserved celebration, Mr. Wilkinson!
Top Left Photo L - R: Jean Wilkinson, Her Honour, Salma Lakhani, Neil Wilkinson, His Honour, Dr. Zaheer Lakhani.
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