Tralee man James bags himself Toastmasters International's highest award
'The DTM award signifies James has demonstrated outstanding service and accomplishment in leadership and communication skills and has used these skills to help others in their self development efforts.' noted Toastmasters International Chief Executive Officer Daniel Rex in the official citation of this award.
James completed two separate education programs in Motivational Strategies and Leadership Development as well as fulfilled important leadership roles at local, regional and across the UK and Ireland. During this time he also received two District 71 (UK and Ireland) personal awards for Vice President Public Relations of the Year in 2021 and 'Above and Beyond' for distinguished services to the District in 2024.
James is well known locally for his commitment to volunteering at numerous Festivals, charitable fundraising, artistic performances and local promotional events which was recognised by a Tralee Municipal District and Kerry County Council Civic Award last year.
He, together with fellow Curator Bryan Carr, are currently working towards their fourth TEDxTralee Conference to be held in Siamsa Tire, Tralee on Saturday October 18 2025. These talks, promoting Tralee and its partners, have now been watched by a worldwide online audience of well over three and a quarter million views at www.tedxtralee.com
'I have always seen my Toastmaster Education, my voluntary activities and professional experiences to be mutually beneficial and complimentary. Nothing of importance is ever achieved in isolation, and I am fortunate beyond words to be supported by family, friends and colleagues in all aspects of my various interests and activities' said James
To celebrate his DTM, James is doing a fundraising abseil 140 feet down Croke Park on Friday June 27 in aid of Debra Ireland – the Butterfly Skin charity, for whom he has raised awareness and much needed funds for the past number of years.
Donations can be made on James Facebook Page or at the link here: https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/JamesFinnegan91813
'I wanted to mark this award with a bang, albeit a controlled one. I can think of no more worthwhile cause than Debra Ireland, who help those affected by EB, their families and also support research into causes and potential treatments. All donations are gratefully received,' said James.
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