Toastmasters International is a world leader in communication and leadership development. Our organization has more than 332,000 memberships. Members improve their speaking and leadership skills by attending one of the 15,400 clubs in 135 countries that make up our global network of meeting locations.
Every Toastmasters journey begins with a single speech. During their journey, they learn to tell their stories. They listen and answer. They plan and lead. They give feedback—and accept it. Through our community of learners, they find their path to leadership.
As an introvert, I like to just sit and listen, or go somewhere quiet and read a book. It’s easier, and feels safer. But because of my experience in Toastmasters, I can speak with confidence when I do get up in front of people, and I know I communicate effectively and that I continue to improve.
Toastmasters are about more than speeches and even performance; it is about confidence, networking, and conversation. I love the opportunities to refine my skills and gain knowledge from watching other speakers.
I have only been in Toastmasters a short time (in fact, I just officially paid my dues). I like the fact that people from different backgrounds come together once a week with the intention of bettering themselves. Pathways is particularly exciting to me because it allows me to pursue the idea of Public Speaking as an income stream and to add credibility to my future goals.
I joined Toastmasters for the friendships I wanted to develop. I quickly learned that through Toastmasters I could learn to be a leader. As someone who is an extrovert working retail, the speaking didn’t seem to be as crucial. However, no matter how much an extrovert I was, I was not a leader. Now I am!
Why I love Toastmasters? I love Toastmasters because hands down it is the single best encouraging organization I have ever come across to attribute my consistent personal and professional growth. I have been able to bust through glass ceiling after glass ceiling due to the tools I have acquired right here in my own back yard. It is the single greatest investment I have ever made in myself, Theresa Mickelson, Club Growth Director – 3rd ranking officer in Toastmasters International District 19. AND, the greatest news is, it is available for you, too. Come join us, have fun and become a better you!
*Note: Members pay Toastmasters International dues of US $60 every six months. (Some clubs may charge additional fees.) All new members also pay a one-time US $20 fee.
