Daniel Rex, executive director of Toastmasters International, commended Rashid Ali for his big achievement.

“The DTM award is given only to those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and communication skills and who have used these skills to help others in their self-development efforts,” he said.

Rashid Ali completed both the leadership and communication tracks, earning many awards to reach the DTM status. “These accomplishments have given you a greater perspective of the value of being a good communicator and effective leader,” Rex said in a letter of commendation addressing Rashid Ali.

Rex said more than four million people around the world had benefited from Toastmaster club programs since it was established in 1924. “Your accomplishments and continuing contributions are a significant factor in this success,” the executive director told Rashid Ali, hoping his achievement would inspire other Toastmasters.

Rashid Ali, who has been a Toastmaster since April 2003 and held different positions in the club including the division governor, believes that success does not befall by luck.

“Success comes as a result of planned hard work, timely executed with inspired leadership, and sincere motivation,” he said.

During his term as Division-G governor, the number of clubs in the division rose to 35, becoming one of the largest Toastmaster divisions in District 79 of the GCC and Jordan.

He took the initiative to establish a Malayalam Toastmasters club in Jeddah and had also contributed to forming the first Urdu Toastmasters club in the city as well as clubs for people who speak other regional languages.

Jeddah Speakers Forum congratulated Rashid Ali for his big win. “We are proud of your winning this highest recognition in Toastmasters,” said Abdul Azeez Thankayathil.

“Rashid Ali has been a source of inspiration,” said K.T. Aboobacker. “His passion to improve himself while serving others as a committed leader is simply exemplary,” he added.