#279: The Power and Practice of True Collaboration – Monique Levesque-Pharoah

The Toastmasters Podcast with Greg Gazin

The Toastmasters Podcast is like a radio talk show featuring interviews with Toastmasters usually featured in the Toastmaster magazine. The purpose of the podcast is to amplify the magazine - to dig deeper or to put a voice to a face or written wordBut unlike a radio show, a podcast is on the Internet, and available, for free, to anyone in the world with an Internet connection, and a connected device capable of playing audio. 260+ episodes are at ToastmastersPodcast.comThe Toastmasters Podcast is co-produced by Toastmasters International and Archieboy Holdings, LLC, for our global audience of Toastmasters and those interested in public speaking and leadership.

[29:47] What does real collaboration look like in action? In this episode, we explore how intentional listening, relationship-building, and shared leadership can transform how we work together—both inside Toastmasters and out. You’ll hear how one leader, Past International Director Monique Levesque-Pharaoh applied these principles in her personal and professional life, and how embracing collaboration can help others feel seen, heard, and empowered.

In this insightful, heartfelt and light-hearted conversation, Monique Levesque-Pharoah shares how Toastmasters shaped her approach to collaboration—not just as a leadership skill, but as a lifelong mindset. Through her experience serving on many committees including Toastmasters International Disciplinary Committee and charing others, she learned the true value of intentional listening, shared purpose, and inclusion. Her journey also took an unexpected and joyful turn when she found a lifelong collaboration – love, through Toastmasters.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of what real collaboration looks like, how to foster trust in teams, and why authentic relationships are at the heart of impactful leadership. Whether you're leading a club, managing a team, or navigating personal connections, Monique offers practical wisdom and inspiration for anyone looking to lead with others, not above them.

Monique is one of the subject matter experts featured in: The Power of Collaboration: Everyone wins when individuals team up and tap into each other’s talents, by Caren S Neile, PhD. in the July 2025 issue of the Toastmaster Magazine.

Monique Levesque-Pharoah is the Director of Development for Peer Connections Manitoba and owner of Unique Communications and Training. A highly experienced presenter and facilitator, she brings training to life with her energetic style and real-life workplace examples. She holds a Certificate in Human Resources Management with honours and is certified in employee development, communication, and leadership. Recently recertified as a conflict mediator through Mediation Services, Monique’s philanthropic efforts include work with the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, the Health Sciences Centre Foundation, and Peer Connections Manitoba.

A Toastmaster since 1994, she has served as Past District Governor, Region Advisor, and International Director, and is a member of Winnipeg Chamber Toastmasters and Vital Words.

Monique lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada and can be reached at rlevesque-pharaoh@toastmasters.org.