Toastmasters International

Toastmasters International is a U.S.-based nonprofit educational organization dedicated to helping people develop public speaking, communication, and leadership skills.

History

Toastmasters International was founded by Ralph C. Smedley in 1924 as part of a series of speaking clubs he initiated during his work at the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA). The first official club was established on October 22, 1924, in Santa Ana, California, building on earlier experiments Smedley conducted in Illinois. The organization's name was coined by George Sutton, who referred to it as "a Toastmasters Club" due to the popular term "toastmaster," meaning a host at banquets and public gatherings[1][5].

Structure

Toastmasters operates through a network of local clubs, with over 13,000 clubs worldwide in 116 countries[2]. Each club typically consists of 20 to 30 members and meets weekly or bi-weekly. Roles within these meetings include prepared speeches, evaluations, Table Topics (impromptu speeches), and various supporting roles like Timer, Grammarian, and General Evaluator[2][3].

Programs

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

• Pathways: A modernized education system comprising eleven paths, each with 14 projects, focusing on public speaking, interpersonal communication, management, strategic leadership, and confidence. Content is available online and in print, with translations in multiple languages[1].
• Speechcraft: A short-term program for non-members that teaches the basics of public speaking and is led by experienced Toastmasters members[1].
• Competent Communication Manual: This manual guides members through ten speeches to build fundamental speaking skills, leading to a globally recognized certification for completion[2].

Membership and Growth

Toastmasters International has grown significantly since its inception. It expanded internationally in the 1930s and began admitting women in 1973. By 2020, the organization boasted approximately 364,000 members worldwide[1].

Events

Toastmasters hosts the World Championship of Public Speaking, one of the largest speech competitions globally, which culminates annually at the Toastmasters International Convention[3].

Mission

The central mission of Toastmasters International remains unchanged from its founding: to provide a supportive environment where individuals can improve their communication and leadership abilities through practical experience and feedback.