LEARN FROM THE MASTERS
Conference Speakers
Presenting at our 2026 event is a host of luminary speakers. Drawing on their deep Toastmasters expertise, business world accomplishments, and leadership acumen, these visionaries will enlighten and inspire conference attendees.
LEE AMATANGELO, DTM
Lee has held impressive leadership roles in the corporate world, including Vice President of JPMorgan Chase and Washington Mutual. He has served in equally influential Toastmasters positions, including Area Governor, Speechcraft Chair, Youth Leadership Chair, Club Rescue Chair, and Club Fitness Program Chair. He has personally helped form 30+ new clubs, completed 50 Competent Communicator awards, coordinated and taught at over 30+ Speechcraft/Youth Leadership programs, and delivered over 1,000 speeches/presentations.
His long list of Toastmasters accolades include being named the 2025 District 32 International Speech Champion, 2014 District 2 International Speech Champion, 2013/2014/2015 District 2 Tall Tales Party Champion (sponsored by several D2 clubs), and the 2009 District 2 Evaluation and International Speech Champion. He is also a World Championship of Public Speaking Contestant Coach who has helped seven D2 speakers get to the Semifinals and one to the World Stage.
The two sessions he will lead at the 2026 conference will be highly interactive and hands-on. By the end of the day, attendees will walk away with stronger self-confidence and a guide to continue to grow that confidence.
MICHAEL BOWN, DTM
Michael is a Divisional Cross Functional Team Manager at BC Pension Corporation, where he partners with diverse teams across multiple functional areas to drive innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. In this role, he oversees divisional business planning, subject matter expertise on projects, and partners with leadership across departments to guide operational and project outcomes. In 2024, he received the CEO Award of Distinction—BC Pension Corporation’s highest individual honor.
A dedicated Toastmaster since 2014, Michael is a member of the First Canadian Toastmasters Club #38 in Victoria. He has served in numerous senior leadership roles within the organization, culminating in his attainment of the Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) designation.
As a member of the Toastmasters International Board of Directors, Michael serves as a working ambassador for the organization. In this capacity, he collaborates with global board members to develop and refine strategies, policies, and programs that advance Toastmasters International’s mission of empowering individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders worldwide.
His keynote address, “Grow the Garden: Cultivating Members Who Stay,” will explore how we can foster the roots of connection, belonging, and shared purpose that help members not just join but truly flourish. In his workshop, “EQ Unleashed: The Human Edge for Tomorrow’s Toastmasters Leaders,” Michael will demonstrate how emotional intelligence can transform how we lead, communicate, and connect, helping us guide teams with empathy, authenticity, and vision.
ABHIJEET JOSHI, DTM
Abhijeet is a technology leader at NVIDIA and an experienced speaker who enjoys helping people understand complex ideas through clear and engaging communication. With over a decade of experience leading large-scale technology programs in artificial intelligence and advanced computing systems, he brings deep insight into how emerging technologies are shaping the future of work and leadership. He is also a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) and Past District Director, who has led thousands of Toastmasters across multiple clubs and leadership initiatives. He has delivered hundreds of speeches and workshops worldwide on AI, leadership, and personal growth, and is passionate about empowering others through communication and technology.
Abhijeet's two sessions will illuminate the missing layer in every Tech story: the human layer. In "The Human Algorithm: Storytelling Secrets Every Tech Leader Needs," he will demonstrate what happens when a technology leader discovers that the most powerful tool in their arsenal isn't a platform, a pipeline, or a process, but a story. In "AI and Leadership: Leading in the Age of Intelligent Machines," he will explore how AI is reshaping the role of leaders. Participants will learn how AI can amplify decision-making, enhance productivity, and uncover insights—while also understanding the human qualities that technology cannot replace.
NIKKI MALCOM
Nikki is a coach and business consultant who works with individuals and leaders to build self-awareness, strengthen communication, and grow with confidence. Her work focuses on helping people see new possibilities for themselves and to take meaningful steps forward.
Nikki’s own leadership journey began in an entry-level aerospace role and grew into executive leadership, shaping her practical approach to coaching and development.
In addition to her coaching practice, Nikki serves as CEO and Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Aerospace Alliance, bringing more than 25 years of experience in aerospace and manufacturing to her work with people and organizations.
Nikki is an active Toastmaster and co-founded the Women Who Lead Toastmasters club to encourage more women to develop their voices and confidence as speakers and leaders. She is a frequent speaker on leadership, emotional intelligence, and personal growth. She is passionate about helping people step into new opportunities and is excited to serve as emcee for this conference.
REBECCA P. MURRAY, DTM
Rebecca is a vocal influence strategist who blends behavior science, technology, and theater to help professionals achieve vocal influence. Through her company, Showcase Your Shine, she equips leaders, teams, and organizations to elevate their presence, master their message, and influence with confidence in every conversation, meeting, and presentation. Rebecca credits Toastmasters as the foundation for her success as a professional speaker and communication trainer. Currently serving as President-Elect of the National Speakers Association Northwest, Rebecca champions Toastmasters as the ideal launchpad for anyone seeking to develop a business in the speaking profession.
In her engaging and personal keynote address, Rebecca will share her journey from committed Toastmaster to paid professional speaker. What began as a bold mindset shift in a hotel room became a strategic path built through the very programs, leadership roles, and speaking opportunities available within Toastmasters. In her afternoon session, she will help Toastmasters embark on their own speakers' journeys, offering guidance on taking their speaking beyond the club and into real-world opportunities. Rebecca will help you clarify what you speak about, what makes your perspective uniquely valuable, and who might benefit from hearing your message!