Qatar’s District 116 ranks second worldwide at International Convention
Achievement marks first time Qatar secures top global ranking in public speaking and leadership forum
DOHA, Qatar (MNTV) — Qatar’s Toastmasters community earned global recognition after District 116 secured the world’s No. 2 ranking at the 2025 Toastmasters International (TMI) Convention, held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
This is the highest position ever achieved by the district since its establishment, according to Qatar Tribune.
The recognition highlights District 116’s strong record in public speaking, leadership training, and organizational growth.
Accepting the awards on behalf of the district were Alar Mel Mangai, DTM, District 116 Director (2025–2026); Sherwin Olimpo, DTM, Program Quality Director; Eman Salameh, DTM, Club Growth Director; and Sabeena MK, DTM, Immediate Past District Director.
The convention also hosted the World Championship of Public Speaking, where thousands of contestants from over 100 countries competed.
The final round featured eight speakers, with Sabyasachi Sengupta of District 59 crowned champion for his speech “Just Nod.” Mas Mahathir Bin Mohamad of District 51 placed second, while Allen Ang Boon Kiat of District 87 secured third place.
Qatar’s District 116 was honored as a Smedley Distinguished District, the highest distinction in Toastmasters International, based on its performance in the Distinguished District Programme (DCP).
Key achievements included 8% net growth in membership payments, 8% net club growth, and at least 60% of clubs attaining Distinguished Club status.
The district also fulfilled all five qualifying criteria, such as training 85% of Division and Area Directors by September 30, submitting strategic plans on time, and completing Region Advisor meetings by May 31.
In addition, District 116 received multiple awards for leadership and excellence:
- President’s 20-Plus Award – for clubs with over 20 members, presented to District Director (2024–2025) Sabeena MK and club leaders
- District Programme Quality Award – honoring Alar Mel Mangai, DTM, and team for delivering high-quality education programs
- District Club Growth Award – recognizing Sherwin Olimpo, DTM, and team for expanding membership and establishing new clubs
“These recognitions are a tribute to the collective passion, commitment, and discipline of our members and leaders,” said Immediate Past District Director Sabeena MK.
Founded in 1924, Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to improving communication and leadership skills.
With more than 270,000 members in over 14,000 clubs across 150 countries, it continues to be a global leader in personal and professional development.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
