Club Growth Director

Shanita Baraka Akintonde, DTM, also known as ShaniTaDa!, is a force to be reckoned with in the world of Toastmasters. As the 2023-24 Club Growth Director in District 103, she brings an unparalleled wealth of experience and a contagious energy that electrifies every room she enters.

With over 25 years of dedicated membership to Toastmasters, ShaniTaDa! stands tall as a Distinguished Toastmaster, a testament to her unwavering commitment to personal growth and leadership development. Throughout her journey, she has taken on numerous key roles, including:

• Vice President of Membership (two terms), The Chicago Tribune-based, Talk of the Tower, where she increased club membership by 50% and fostered an inclusive and engaging environment for members to thrive.
• President, ViewMasters, leading the club with remarkable resilience during the challenging transition from face-to-face to virtual meetings amidst the pandemic. Under her guidance, the club not only maintained its President’s Distinguished status, but also pioneered innovative strategies to enhance member engagement.
• Founder, Organizer, and Inaugural President of the groundbreaking Leading ladies club, the first all-female club in District 103’s history. This achievement solidifies her position as a trailblazer, inspiring a new generation of empowered women within Toastmasters.
• ShaniTaDa! has left an indelible mark on District 103 through her service as a two-time Area Director, TLI facilitator, and co-host for the prestigious 2022 Annual Spring Conference. Her mastery as a Contest Master has been proven time and again, while her captivating speeches have earned her top honors in various District contests.

Beyond her leadership prowess, ShanitaDa! is deeply committed to mentorship and community outreach. She has excelled as a Youth Leadership Program (YLP) Coordinator, a Club Mentor, and a member mentor, leaving a lasting impact on the growth and development of countless individuals. In addition, she dedicates her time and boundless energy as president of ShanitaSpeaks LLC, leaving no stone unturned in captivating audiences through SRO keynote addresses and her #1-ranked podcast, Marketing Insights. This wife and mother has co-authored four books and written over 150 blogs, newspaper columns, and research papers.

ShaniTaDa! has an undeniable magic touch. Her presence alone is a catalyst for excellence, her dedication unwavering, and her impact undeniable. Whether she is championing a marketing campaign, delivering an inspiring speech, or guiding others toward their full potential ShaniTaDa! brings the Toastmasters spirit to life with unmatched enthusiasm and flair. TaDa!