Sandra J. Valks, CLU, DTM

Sandra is a Distinguished Toastmaster. This designation confirms completion of both the speaking and the leadership tracks within the Toastmaster curriculum. Sandra was Area Governor for two years, taking her area from unnoticed to Select Distinguished. She continues as a Toastmaster since 1993 to the present, keeping her skills honed.

Sandra is also a Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) completing the required curriculum through the University of Toronto that administers this program. She has been providing financial services since 1982 as a self-employed financial advisor. Locally known as Valks Financial, Sandra continues interviewing, financial counseling, speaking and teaching around financial services, broadening her depth of truly understanding the importance of effective communication around money.

Sandra graduated from Peterborough Teachers’ College and taught locally before relocating to Germany as a military wife. World travel has expanded her speaking and training experience.

As a Qualified Facilitator for the AVP (Alternatives to Violence Project), Sandra has volunteered often in the prison system. Effective communication is a vital element in the reduction of violence. Sandra’s prison volunteering has included rebuilding the Bath Talk Gavel – Toastmasters Club for inmates. She continues as their outside liaison. Communication is proving transformational for many of the men. Similar programs for youth can prove effective in reducing bully activity.

Specialization

As a Communications Specialist, Sandra has coached local politicians, professionals, students, individual employees and employee teams in effective communication and professional presentation. As an accomplished Toastmaster, she has trained many groups in short but highly intensive communications training classes. She has a passion for helping others. Sandra has the ability to deliver an abundance of content in a short time while holding the attention of the participants. She uses illustrative methods, constructive criticism and provides clear instruction throughout the workshop. Participants also have the opportunity to gain valuable leadership experience. She works with corporations, NGOs, groups and individuals to create an empowered workforce.

Services

Available to groups in a workshop format and to individuals on a one-on-one tutoring basis for more intensive and specific results

Communication Specialist

• Keynote Speaker
• Workshop Facilitation
• Speaking / Delivery
• Speech Preparation
• Effective Listening
• Effective Evaluation
• Organizing Your Thoughts
• Thinking on Your Feet
• Chairing Meetings Effectively
• Train the Trainers
• Telephone Voice Effectiveness
• Telephone Customer Service

Financial Advisor

• Financial Advisor & Money Talk
• Intergenerational Money Talk