EP 64 - Maria Pedavoli: Leading the Newly Aligned District 70

Interview conducted on the 12th June 2026 As District 70 prepares for a new chapter, Maria Pedavoli shares her inspiring journey from joining Toastmasters in 2009 to becoming the inaugural District Director of the newly aligned District 70. Throughout the conversation, Maria reflects on how personal loss reshaped her Toastmasters journey, leading her away from competition and towards a life of servant leadership. Rather than viewing leadership as recognition, Maria sees it as an opportunity to give back. Her vision for the newly unified district centres on **connection, communication and collaboration**. She believes every member should understand they belong to something much bigger than their individual club and hopes to bridge the gap between clubs, areas, divisions and district leadership through greater visibility, education and engagement. Maria explains the important role of the District Trio, outlining how Club Growth, Program Quality and District leadership work together to build healthy clubs, strengthen member education and ensure the long-term success of Toastmasters across New South Wales. She also discusses the challenges facing Toastmasters worldwide, including declining membership, while expressing confidence that renewed focus, stronger communication and a united leadership team can reverse the trend. One of the most powerful messages from the interview is Maria's belief that leadership is not simply volunteering—it is an investment in personal and professional growth. Every leadership role develops confidence, communication, decision-making and management skills that extend far beyond Toastmasters. Her advice is simple yet powerful: **say yes**. By stepping outside your comfort zone and serving others, you may discover strengths and potential you never knew you possessed.