Meet Our Presenters

Peter Ivanov, born in Bulgaria, is a seasoned manager, entrepreneur, and expert in virtual teams with over 20 years of international experience. He graduated in mathematics and began his career as a data analyst at a multinational company. Demonstrating exceptional leadership, he quickly advanced to IT Manager for Bulgaria and subsequently to IT Services Manager for Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

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Recognizing the growing importance of geographically dispersed teams, Peter developed an innovative method for leading virtual teams. His approach emphasizes the "10 Big Rocks" factors crucial for successfully managing large, international, virtual teams.

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Under his leadership, his teams received multiple corporate awards, including the "Best of the Best" award in 2007 for outstanding project management in establishing global shared services, and the "Global IT Connect Award" in 2012 for excellent engagement in a global cross-functional environment.

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In 2013, Peter founded "Virtual Power Teams," transitioning into a career as a keynote speaker and executive coach specializing in new leadership. He inspires executives, managers, entrepreneurs, and NGO leaders with the power of virtual teams and future-oriented leadership.

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Peter is also an accomplished author; his book "Virtual Power Teams" has been translated into six languages and achieved Amazon Top 3 status in the category of international management.

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As an expert in new leadership, Peter assists executives, project managers, and team leaders in maintaining team cohesion despite geographical distances, time zones, and cultural differences, ultimately delivering top business performance.

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Beyond his work in leadership and virtual team management, Peter Ivanov is a sought-after speaker and executive coach, helping companies and organizations worldwide navigate the complexities of digital transformation. His innovative approach has been applied in industries ranging from IT and finance to pharmaceuticals and manufacturing. Peter regularly delivers keynote speeches and workshops at international conferences, where he shares his expertise on remote leadership, team dynamics, and achieving high performance in globalized work environments. 

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Ted Corcoran, born in Fossa, County Kerry, Ireland, has been a pivotal figure in Toastmasters International for nearly four decades. He began his journey in 1985 by founding the Fingal Toastmasters Club in Dublin, where he served as the inaugural president. Demonstrating exceptional leadership, he advanced through various roles at both club and district levels. In 1994–1995, as District Governor of District 71, he led the district to achieve Presidents Distinguished status, ranking second globally in accomplishments that year.

Corcoran's innovative contributions include the development of the Club Excellence Program in 1992, which was adopted by District 71 and significantly enhanced its success over the years. This initiative played a crucial role in his election as International Director in 1996, representing Toastmasters members outside North America. His leadership trajectory continued, and in 2003–2004, he became the first European to serve as International President in the organization's history. During his tenure, he oversaw an international board of 23 members and managed a global network of 200,000 members across 10,000 clubs in 90 countries, visiting several of these nations to promote the organization's mission.

Beyond Toastmasters, Corcoran has been an active member of the Rotary Club Dublin since 1991, serving as its president in 2001–2002. His commitment to leadership and community service is further exemplified by his role as the 2011–2012 Region Advisor for Region 11 of Toastmasters International, which involved engagements in Scotland, Switzerland, Belgium, India, and South Africa.

An accomplished author, Corcoran has penned several books on leadership and personal development. His works include "The Leadership Bus: How to Be a Truly Effective and Successful Leader," "Hiring a Car and Walking After It: A Little Book of Life Lessons," and "A Comprehensive History of Toastmasters in Great Britain and Ireland," published in 2022. These publications reflect his extensive experience and insights into effective leadership and organizational growth.

Even as he approaches his 80th birthday, Corcoran remains an active and influential figure within the Toastmasters community. He continues to deliver training sessions, presentations, and seminars worldwide, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with members across the globe. His enduring dedication to fostering leadership and communication skills has left an indelible mark on countless individuals and the organization as a whole.

Ali Parandeh is a dynamic entrepreneur, software engineer, and business strategist with over two decades of experience in technology and innovation. Born in Iran and raised in the UK, Ali's multicultural background has shaped his global perspective on business and leadership. His career began in the tech industry, where he quickly distinguished himself as a skilled developer and problem solver. Over the years, he has worked with startups and established corporations, helping them leverage technology to drive business success.

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Ali is the founder of multiple ventures, including Ali Parandeh Consulting, where he provides expert guidance on software development, business strategy, and digital transformation. He is passionate about using technology to solve real-world problems and has played a key role in developing innovative solutions in sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, and blockchain. His ability to merge technical expertise with business acumen has made him a sought-after consultant for companies looking to scale their operations efficiently.

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Beyond his work in technology, Ali is also a recognized leadership coach and mentor. He has a deep interest in human psychology, communication, and team dynamics, which he integrates into his coaching methodology. Through his workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions, he helps entrepreneurs and executives enhance their leadership skills, improve decision-making, and build resilient, high-performing teams. His approach is centered on empowering individuals to unlock their full potential and create meaningful impact within their organizations.

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Ali is a frequent speaker at conferences and industry events, where he shares insights on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the future of technology. He is also an advocate for ethical business practices and sustainable development, believing that technology should be used as a force for good. His ability to inspire and motivate others has made him a respected figure in the tech and business communities.

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With his vast experience in software engineering, business strategy, and leadership development, Ali Parandeh continues to push the boundaries of innovation while mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs and tech leaders. His passion for creating lasting impact drives his work, making him a thought leader in both the business and technology worlds.

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Alena Huberová is a transformational speaker, communication coach, and advocate for women in leadership. With over two decades of experience in corporate communication, leadership development, and personal branding, she has helped professionals and organizations unlock the power of effective communication to drive success. Originally from the Czech Republic and having lived and worked across multiple countries, Alena brings a global perspective to leadership and professional growth.

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As the founder of SheLeads, Alena is dedicated to empowering women to develop confidence, influence, and executive presence in the workplace. Through coaching, workshops, and keynote speeches, she helps leaders refine their storytelling skills, enhance their public speaking abilities, and navigate the challenges of leadership with authenticity. Her methodology combines neuroscience, psychology, and practical experience to enable professionals to communicate with impact.

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Alena's expertise extends beyond individual coaching—she collaborates with organizations to create inclusive and engaging workplace cultures. She has worked with Fortune 500 companies, startups, and non-profits to implement leadership programs that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion. Her training sessions focus on strategic communication, negotiation skills, and executive visibility, ensuring that professionals at all levels can articulate their ideas persuasively and assertively.

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A sought-after speaker at international conferences, Alena frequently delivers talks on topics such as female leadership, personal branding, and the power of storytelling in business. She is passionate about challenging outdated stereotypes and advocating for greater representation of women in decision-making roles. Her engaging speaking style and ability to connect with diverse audiences have made her a favorite among professionals seeking inspiration and practical strategies for career advancement.

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Beyond her professional work, Alena is a mentor and an active supporter of initiatives that promote gender equality and women’s leadership. She believes that strong communication is the foundation of impactful leadership and is committed to equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive world. Through her work, Alena continues to inspire and transform professionals, helping them find their voice and lead with confidence.

Michal Dvořák is a mindfulness coach, leadership trainer, and expert in workplace well-being, dedicated to helping individuals and organizations cultivate focus, resilience, and emotional intelligence. With years of experience in corporate environments and personal development, Michal understands the challenges professionals face in today’s fast-paced world and provides practical tools to enhance mental clarity, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being.

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As the founder of BeMindful.cz, Michal works with businesses, teams, and individuals to integrate mindfulness into their daily routines, helping them develop a more balanced approach to work and life. His training programs combine neuroscience, psychology, and mindfulness techniques to support sustainable high performance, creativity, and effective decision-making. Through workshops, coaching, and keynote talks, he helps professionals shift from autopilot mode to intentional awareness, enabling them to handle challenges with greater ease and confidence.

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Michal’s expertise extends to leadership development, where he coaches executives and managers on how to cultivate mindful leadership. By incorporating mindfulness into leadership practices, he empowers leaders to enhance their emotional intelligence, communication skills, and ability to inspire teams. His approach fosters a culture of trust, collaboration, and psychological safety, which are key to building resilient and high-performing organizations.

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A frequent speaker at corporate events and conferences, Michal shares insights on stress management, focus training, and the role of mindfulness in modern business environments. His engaging and evidence-based approach makes mindfulness accessible to professionals across industries, dispelling myths and demonstrating its tangible benefits. His work is particularly relevant in today’s remote and hybrid work settings, where maintaining work-life balance and mental well-being are more critical than ever.

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Beyond his professional work, Michal is an advocate for mental health awareness and regularly collaborates with initiatives aimed at improving emotional well-being in society. His passion lies in helping individuals reconnect with themselves, improve their quality of life, and bring mindfulness into their everyday interactions. Through his work, Michal continues to inspire and support professionals in achieving a healthier, more focused, and fulfilling life.

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Toni Purdy is an experienced and passionate Toastmaster whose journey in public speaking has taken her across continents. Originally from Australia, she discovered her love for public speaking during a Speechcraft course at the Australian National University in Canberra. Enthralled by the experience, she eagerly joined her first Toastmasters club and has remained an active and dedicated member ever since.

Her commitment to personal and professional growth through Toastmasters has led her to be involved in clubs across Australia, China, and Europe, where she has played a pivotal role in mentoring and guiding fellow members.

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Toni’s leadership and contributions to Toastmasters are remarkable. While living in China, she achieved the prestigious Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) award in 2008.

Upon moving to Prague, she took on leadership roles as an Area Governor and later as a Division Governor, significantly expanding Toastmasters' presence in the region. Under her guidance, the number of clubs in the Czech Republic grew from six to ten in just one year. She has chartered two clubs, mentored several others, and has been recognized for her outstanding leadership by receiving the Area Governor of the Year award twice—once in Australia and once in Europe.

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Beyond her Toastmasters journey, Toni is an avid traveler who has embraced the adventure of living and working in different cultures. She has taught English in China and the Czech Republic, further enriching her global perspective.

Now based in Melbourne, she continues to explore her own country in her campervan, seeking new experiences off the beaten path. When she’s not on the road, she enjoys reading, writing, sewing, and immersing herself in live music events.

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Toni’s passion for storytelling, leadership, and personal growth makes her an inspiring figure in the Toastmasters community. Her ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and her dedication to helping others develop their communication skills have left a lasting impact across multiple continents.

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Balazs Somogyi is a highly experienced project manager, process improvement consultant, and public speaker. Throughout his career, Balazs has helped organizations and individuals navigate complex challenges and achieve their goals in ever-changing environments. He specializes in providing practical guidance on project management, leadership development, and process optimization, empowering people and businesses to succeed in dynamic conditions.

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As a passionate advocate for the essential role of project management and leadership in both personal and professional settings, Balazs firmly believes that "projects are all around us." He emphasizes that everyone, regardless of their role, needs to possess key organizational, communication, people management, and business skills to excel. His expertise in these areas has led him to train and mentor professionals, including executives, entrepreneurs, and employees at all levels, helping them build the confidence and competence needed to lead and manage successful projects.

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Balazs is also an accomplished public speaker. His dynamic and engaging speaking style has made him a sought-after speaker at conferences, corporate events, and professional development workshops. As a volunteer, he has dedicated significant time and energy to supporting various community initiatives, including his involvement with Toastmasters International. He served as the District Director of Toastmasters District 110 (2023–2024), affectionately known as "Wild East Europe." In this leadership role, he worked tirelessly to promote the development of communication and leadership skills across the region, overseeing a district that spans multiple countries and cultures.

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In addition to his achievements in project management and Toastmasters, Balazs is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and holds the prestigious Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) designation. His credentials and experiences have enabled him to consult for various global organizations.

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Outside of his professional life, Balazs is a dedicated father of three and is passionate about personal development, continuous learning, and helping others unlock their potential. Based in Budapest, Hungary, he continues to inspire individuals and organizations to embrace change, enhance their skills, and achieve sustainable success.

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