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Emilio Martinez is a passionate and visionary leader who believes that anyone can achieve greatness with hard work, vision, and consistency. Born in the Dominican Republic and proudly calling Miami home since 1990, Emilio brings a grounded perspective shaped by humble beginnings and driven by purpose.
Inspired by the wisdom of Marcus Aurelius—”The obstacle is the way”—Emilio embraces challenges as opportunities to grow and uplift others. His journey through Toastmasters has been nothing short of transformational, helping him evolve both personally and professionally.
As Division E Director, Emilio is committed to motivating and empowering others to reach their highest potential, and to building a community where every voice is heard and every member thrives.
Michael E. Strong-Mason is a native of Detroit, Michigan, and the second of two children to Grover Jr. and Joan Strong. Michael attended Olivet College (now known as the University of Olivet) in Olivet, MI, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in social studies and English, along with a certification to teach K-8 and 9th grade social studies. Michael furthered their education at Barry University in Miami Shores, FL, obtaining a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration and completing all coursework but not the dissertation for a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Higher Education Administration.
After graduating from Olivet, Michael realized that elementary education was not the right career path and began working in customer service at the Detroit-Wayne Metropolitan Airport for Eastern Airlines. Michael worked in various agent positions and was eventually promoted to Sr. Analyst, Aircraft Routing in Miami, FL. Throughout her career at Eastern Airlines, Michael held several positions, including Supervisor of Aircraft Time Control Analyst, Representative of Management Recruitment, and Director of Pilot and Management Recruiting. When the airline ceased operations, Michael was serving as the Director of Human Resources.
Michael then dedicated 29 years to Miami Dade College, where they held roles such as College Recruiter at the Wolfson Campus, Coordinator of the College Reach-Out Program, and Director of Student Services at the Meek Entrepreneurial Education Center. Michael also taught student life skills for both entering and struggling college students in the School of Social Sciences and entry-level education courses in the School of Education. Michael retired in July 2020.
In addition to their professional career, Michael is a charter member of Toastmasters Club 305-Speaks, a member of Top Ladies of Distinction, Southern Pearls Chapter, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter. Michael has also served as a board member for the W.I.S.H. (Women Involved in Service to Humanity) Foundation, Inc., and as the financial secretary for the foundation.
Michael is married and has one adult son
Meet Michael Walsh, a dynamic Principal and Wealth Manager at Evensky & Katz / Foldes Wealth Management. Beginning his career in 2009, Michael is not just a financial expert with over a decade of experience—he is a passionate advocate for his clients and his community. Managing approximately $300 million in client assets, he chairs the firm’s Company Retirement Plan division and is renowned for his expertise in charitable planning. Michael believes that wealth management is not just about numbers; it’s about making a meaningful impact in people’s lives. His commitment to philanthropy drives him to create tailored strategies that empower individuals and organizations to realize their personal dreams and charitable visions.
Michael’s educational journey includes a master’s degree in Personal Financial Planning from Texas Tech University and a bachelor’s degree from William Paterson University. His professional trajectory reflects a blend of academic rigor and practical experience, having served as a co-instructor for undergraduate and graduate-level classes at Texas Tech. As Chair of the Board of Directors of the Coral Gables Community Foundation, he has transformed the organization’s impact, elevating annual giving from $900,000 to $5.5 million.
An accomplished communicator and lifelong learner, Michael is also actively involved in Toastmasters International. He co-founded a Toastmasters chapter at Texas Tech University in 2014, fostering leadership and public speaking skills among students and faculty alike. Continuing his commitment to personal and professional development, he joined the Miracle Mile Toastmasters chapter in 2024, where he remains an engaged and enthusiastic member.
•Born in raised in Miami
•I’m a 3rd generation construction contractor.
•I’ve been an entrepreneur for 40 yrs.
•Real Estate sales and Sales Management experience
•Sales trainer
In the 2 yrs of being active in Toastmasters I’ve seen the transformation our members experience when they are active in their club and want to ensure our community continues.
Early in his adult life, Andres learned how infinitely valuable enthusiasm and a positive mental attitude are in every aspect of life. Recognizing how these qualities shaped him, awoke an urge to share the incredible power of mindset.
Fueled by a deep desire to overcome challenges—both personal and professional—Andres embodies the belief that with the right attitude and perseverance, anyone can rise above adversity. His journey has shown him that obstacles are not setbacks but investments in growth, offering valuable lessons that ultimately contribute to future achievements.
Through every triumph and hardship, family has remained the foundation of his journey. Their love and shared experiences deepened his understanding of the power of connection and perseverance.
He joined Toastmasters to enhance his communication and speaking skills. Now on a journey to becoming a professional speaker, Andres is dedicated to sharing what he has learned to inspire others to grow. Whether addressing an individual or a large audience, his purpose is clear: to make others highly aware that they can harness the immense power that resides within themselves.
Ashley Petit is proud to serve as the Area 54 Director for District 47, Division E for the 2025–2026 Toastmasters year. A dedicated member of Miami Dade Toastmasters since October 2022, Ashley has held several club leadership roles, including Vice President Public Relations, Club President, and currently, Vice President Education.
By day, Ashley is a digital artist, bringing creativity and a fresh perspective to every space she enters. Her love for Toastmasters and desire to grow led her to take on the Area Director role, where she looks forward to supporting clubs, encouraging leadership, and helping members thrive.
Ashley believes Toastmasters is more than just public speaking—it’s a community that empowers people to discover their voices, build confidence, and connect with others.