#301: Meet the 2026 Int'l Convention, Vancouver Canada Co-Chairs - Carole Murphy & Tom Jones
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[18:39] The countdown is on for the 2026 Toastmasters International Convention taking place August 19 to 22, 2026, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. In this annual convention preview episode, Greg Gazin speaks with Convention Host Co-Chairs Carole Murphy and Tom Jones for an early look at what attendees can expect and to learn more about the volunteers and leaders helping bring Toastmasters’ largest event to life.
You’ll get to know Carole and Tom as they share how they unexpectedly received the invitation to serve, what their role as co-chairs involves, and how their different personalities and leadership styles complement one another and what they’ve learned along the way. You'll also hear why Vancouver, often called Hollywood North, continues to be a favourite convention destination and the meaning behind this year’s convention theme: Wide Open Communication.
Highlights this year include keynote speaker Jody Carrington and 2026 Golden Gavel honouree Jennifer Moss presenting Why Are We Here? Creating a Work Culture Everyone Wants.
You’ll also hear about some of the convention activities, including:
• Traditional opening ceremonies and the Parade of Flags
• Semifinals and finals of the World Championship of Public Speaking
• Accredited Speaker presentation and business meeting
• First-timers activities and networking opportunities
• Smedley Harbour Cruise and Smedley Fun Bingo evening events
• Education sessions and Toastmasters Journey workshops including a new AI-focused session designed to help attract prospective members...and more!
About:
Carole Murphy, DTM, has been a Toastmaster for 31 years and serves as Convention Co-Chair for the 2026 Toastmasters International Convention.
Tom Jones, DTM, is a Past International Director, entrepreneur, management consultant, and Convention Co-Chair for the 2026 Toastmasters International Convention.
Convention details, agenda, volunteer opportunities, and Dear Boss resources.
You can also read:
2. Wide-Open Communication: 2026 Convention: Head to Vancouver, Canada, for inspiration, education, and connection.
Both articles appear in the June 2026 issue of Toastmaster Magazine.
Related Episode:
Episode #299: Championing Workplace Well-Being — Meet the 2026 Golden Gavel Recipient Jennifer Moss