Gillian Caldicott

I said we would give a brief introductions to each of the Conference team. This time I’d like to introduce you to our Head of Frivolities, Miss Chief, otherwise known as Gillian Caldicott.

Gillian Caldicott

Miss Chief says “I have been a member of Toastmasters International since June 2002, first as a member of Leeds City Toastmasters and then as a founder member of York EbOrators (a contraction of Eboracum, the Roman name for York and Orators to answer your question). I gained my Competent Toastmaster award in July 2004, Competent Leader in February 2008 and ATM – Bronze in June 2007. In and amongst all this I have been Club Secretary, President and Treasurer.

So why does all this qualify me to be Head of Frivolities at your November conference? Well, other than that I’ve been around Toastmasters a while, it doesn’t. What does qualify me are my knowledge that Toastmasters love a party and experience of running similar event for other organisations.

In my days as a member of British Junior Chamber I have been involved in organising Regional speaking competitions, regional training days and a 4 day National Conference (attendance up to 700 people). I have also been Project Manager for the Yorkshire Regional Group Summer Ball (250 people attended) and Conference Director for the Yorkshire Regional Group Conference (300 people attended). So, as you can see my hobbies tend to involve me organising stuff!

Not only that, but I organise staff conferences for my Division of Portakabin Ltd (400 people in 3 locations over 3 days).

I’m loving organising the Frivolities for the White Rose Conference. My aim is that everyone goes away having had a great time and having made lots of new friends. Whether you’re joining the Discover York programme, spooking yourself on the midnight Ghost Hunt or just joining in the evening events, frivolity isn’t just for Conference, it’s a treasure for your memory!”