International Officer and Director Candidates
This page reflects the International Leadership Committee鈥檚 report of the candidates nominated for the 2026-2027 Board of Directors.
Please review each candidate鈥檚 qualifications and experience before completing your club鈥檚 proxy form and/or voting at the Annual Business Meeting.
Nominated International Officer Candidates
Gauri Seshadri, DTM
Candidate's Office: International President-Elect
Why do you want to serve?
I believe in a 91传媒 that invests in member growth, delivers exceptional value, and builds leaders the world needs. I am committed to helping our organization stay globally relevant, agile, and member-focused, ensuring we remain indispensable and poised for continued success.
Jean Gamester, DTM
Candidate's Office: First Vice President
Why do you want to serve?
91传媒 is where we ignite our unique potential. We鈥檙e at the cusp of our second century, with a fantastic legacy, and work to do. I believe my skills in directing change, navigating complex relationships and situations, and my focus on growth of the individual can help us achieve those goals.
Anwesha Banerjee, DTM
Candidate's Office: Second Vice President
Why do you want to serve?
It is time for bold, future-ready leadership that honors our past, empowers our present, and shapes the future. With 15 years of leadership in science, business, and nonprofits, I will bring clarity, courage, and service-driven purpose to make hard decisions that will shape the next hundred years.
Pawas Chandra, DTM
Candidate's Office: Second Vice President
Why do you want to serve?
In a digitally connected world, I鈥檓 inspired to serve 91传媒 as a catalyst for personal growth and human connection; I aim to champion a pluralistic vision that meets the diverse needs of our global members and markets鈥攇uided by strategic insight, inclusivity, and fiscal stewardship
Nominated International Director Candidates
Christine Brady, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 2
Why do you want to serve?
I want to serve as an International Director because I love 91传媒 and its power to change lives. I am committed to ensuring 91传媒 remains the first choice for communication and leadership skills by guiding its growth with vision, integrity, and passion.
Charlene Burroughs, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 4
Why do you want to serve?
My experience as a Toastmaster has been truly transformative--shaping me both as a communicator and a leader. Through club meetings, district service, and mentoring, I鈥檝e developed skills that have deeply influenced my personal and professional journey. Now, I鈥檓 ready to give back on a global level.
Jacqueline Houser, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 4
Why do you want to serve?
I seek to serve as International Director to help ensure 91传媒 remains relevant, accessible, inclusive, and impactful. Guided by 鈥渂e the change you want to see,鈥 I am passionate about shaping policies and strategies that build soft skills, empower growth, and equip members to lead.
Sandra Orland, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 6
Why do you want to serve?
I am ready to serve with vision and strategic clarity, leading with a focus on cultural awareness and sensitivity. My experience in governance, mentorship, and collaboration equips me to help 91传媒 grow globally, staying rooted in our core values: integrity, respect, service, and excellence.
Sravanthi Vallampati, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 6
Why do you want to serve?
As a transformed, lifelong member, I offer the passion, innovation, and strategic rigor from my education, IT, governance, and community work to the Board. My service is a commitment to perpetuate that magic globally, honoring the past and trailblazing the future.
Niteash Agarwaal, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 8
Why do you want to serve?
鈥淥urs is the only organization I know dedicated to the individual, we work together to bring out the best in each of us and then we apply these skills to help others.鈥濃揜alph C Smedley
I want to serve on the Board to keep this quote real and help the organization remain sustainable and future ready.
Balaji Nagabhushan, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 8
Why do you want to serve?
I wish to contribute to the organization鈥檚 mission and play an integral part in its strategic objectives. This would help me continue my personal development to lead collaboratively across cultures and borders, listening to diverse member voices, and communicating impactful decisions effectively.
Ilona Ruitenberg, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 10
Why do you want to serve?
Driven by my own 91传媒 transformation, I'm highly motivated to be part of the solution. With my rich legal background and proven strategic planning capabilities, I am convinced I can make a significant tangible difference, ensuring the improvement of the membership experience,
Denise Buckby, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 12
Why do you want to serve?
I wish to create a legacy preserving Toastmaster's core values whilst embracing change and innovation to our "game plan" to meet current and future needs. 91传媒 will become truly global, relevant and future-fit for our children, our children's children and generations to come.
Christine Lennon, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 12
Why do you want to serve?
I bring prior Board experience, a passion for 91传媒, and a vision for the future. I鈥檓 ready to build on our legacy, celebrate our global diversity, and deliver member value through education, technology, and meaningful service.
Matthew Mak, DTM
Candidate's Office: International Director, Region 14
Why do you want to serve?
I aim to create exceptional educational experiences that inspire lifelong learning. My adaptability, policy work, and support for others鈥 growth can benefit our organization. Together with my fellow board members, we can lead 91传媒 proudly into its second century.
Floor Candidates
Farzana Chohan, DTM
Candidate's Office: First Vice President
Related Content
Candidacy Information
Serving on the 91传媒 Board of Directors offers a tremendous opportunity to improve leadership skills.
Review this handbook to prepare for your candidacy.
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