Toastmasters International

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization based in the United States, dedicated to enhancing communication, public speaking, and leadership skills worldwide. Founded on October 22, 1924, by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, the organization has grown into a global network with clubs across more than 150 countries.

History

The first Toastmasters club was established at the YMCA in Santa Ana, California. Initially conceived as a program for young men to practice public speaking, it gradually evolved to include members of all backgrounds. The organization incorporated under California law on December 19, 1932, and opened its first international chapter in Vancouver, Canada, in the same year. Toastmasters began admitting women in 1973.

Structure and Meetings

Toastmasters operates through local clubs, with an average membership of 20-30 people per club. Meetings are typically held weekly or bi-weekly, lasting about one to two hours. Each meeting includes several roles and activities:

• Introduction Circle: Members introduce themselves and share brief thoughts.
• Word of the Day: An interesting word is introduced for use during the meeting.
• Invocation: A short speech to motivate members.
• Toast of the Day: A speech honoring someone or something.
• Table Topics: Members participate in impromptu speeches based on given topics.
• Prepared Speeches: Members deliver prepared speeches following specific guidelines.
• Evaluation: Constructive feedback is provided for each speech.

Roles within the club include Chairman, Word Master, Toastmaster, Table Topics Master, General Evaluator, Evaluator, Timer, and Grammarian.

Education Programs

Toastmasters employs several educational programs to enhance public speaking and leadership skills:

• Pathways: Offers eleven learning paths focused on public speaking, interpersonal communication, management, strategic leadership, and confidence building, each comprising 14 projects. Content is available in English and, as of 2023, in ten other languages.
• Speechcraft: A 4- to 8-week program led by experienced Toastmasters for non-members.
• Competent Communication Manual: A foundational manual guiding members through ten speeches to improve basic speaking skills.

Mission and Values

The mission of Toastmasters International is to empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. The organization adheres to core values of Integrity, Respect, Service, and Excellence. It aims to provide a supportive environment where members can develop skills leading to greater self-confidence and personal growth.

Membership and Impact

As of recent data, Toastmasters has over 270,000 members worldwide. Over the years, it has helped nearly eight million people improve their communication and leadership abilities. The organization's global reach and inclusive structure make it accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds.