At the Heart of Chrysalis Gala Breakfast on October 15, 2025, community leaders, supporters, and Toastmasters from across District 99 gathered to celebrate an organization that changes lives every day. Chrysalis: An Alberta Society for Citizens with Disabilities empowers individuals to build confidence, communication, and community inclusion through personal growth opportunities—and one of its many shining initiatives is the Chrysalis Social Butterflies Toastmasters Club.
Formed more than a decade ago, the club was created through the vision of Chrysalis staff and the local Toastmasters community. Today, it continues to thrive as a safe, joyful, and empowering space where members develop communication, confidence, and leadership skills. Each meeting includes prepared speeches, impromptu speaking, and evaluations—just like any other Toastmasters club—proving that with the right support, every voice deserves to be heard.
For members of Chrysalis, the club has become more than a learning opportunity; it’s a source of confidence, joy, and belonging. As one member shared at last year’s gala, “Toastmasters helps me find my voice. I’m not afraid to speak up anymore.”
District 99 leaders were proud to attend the 2025 gala, including Public Relations Manager Erin McDonald, Division D Director Wes Montey, Area D16 Director Greg Laskey, and Past District Director Peter Kossowan, DTM—who has supported the club from its earliest days. The event celebrated not only the achievements of Chrysalis participants, but also the power of partnership between Toastmasters and community organizations dedicated to growth and inclusion.
“The Chrysalis Social Butterflies truly embody the spirit of Toastmasters,” said Division D Director Wes Montey. “They remind us that communication isn’t just a skill—it’s a bridge to confidence and connection.”
With every speech and every meeting role, the Social Butterflies demonstrate what’s possible when people are given the tools and encouragement to soar.
