Toastmasters International

Abbreviation: TI, TM
Formation: October 22, 1924
Type: Non-profit organization
Legal status: Non-profit organization
Purpose: Educational
Region: Worldwide
Membership: Over 364,000 members (2020)
International President: Radhi Spear
Revenue: Approximately $34 million (2016)
Staff: 198 (2016)
Volunteers: 117,789 (2016)

Toastmasters International (TI) is a globally recognized non-profit educational organization headquartered in the United States. Founded in 1924 by Dr. Ralph C. Smedley, the organization's primary aim is to enhance members' communication, public speaking, and leadership skills through a network of local clubs worldwide.

History

The origins of Toastmasters International date back to 1905 when Dr. Ralph C. Smedley initiated a speaking club while serving as the educational director at the YMCA in Bloomington, Illinois. The first Toastmasters club was officially established on October 22, 1924, in Santa Ana, California. Smedley envisioned a club that would provide a supportive environment for individuals to learn public speaking and leadership skills through practice and peer feedback.

The organization saw rapid growth, expanding internationally with the establishment of its first foreign club in Vancouver, Canada, in 1932. Over the decades, Toastmasters admitted women in 1973 and navigated various historical events, including World War II, leading to its expansion across various continents and cultures. By 2016, Toastmasters International had over 16,000 clubs in 142 countries and had transformed the lives of millions.

Structure and Meetings

Toastmasters operates on a club-based structure, which allows each local club to function independently while adhering to the standards set by the global organization. Clubs typically meet weekly or biweekly, with an average membership of about 22 members. Each meeting consists of various activities, including:

• Prepared speeches by members, based on specific manuals.
• Impromptu speaking opportunities called "Table Topics."
• Constructive evaluations of speeches by peers.
• Roles such as Timer, Grammarian, and Table Topics Master to enhance meeting dynamics.

This setup fosters a supportive atmosphere where members can practice and enhance their public speaking abilities.

Educational Programs

Toastmasters International offers a comprehensive educational program known as Pathways, which features eleven specialized paths that cater to various aspects of personal and professional development. Each path consists of multiple projects that focus on skills such as public speaking, interpersonal communication, management, and strategic leadership.

Members also participate in the Speechcraft program, which serves as an introductory course for non-members, offering structured guidance in public speaking and leadership through short, intensive workshops.

Mission and Core Values

The mission of Toastmasters International is to empower individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. The organization is committed to fostering a supportive learning environment that promotes personal growth and self-confidence.

Toastmasters upholds core values that include:

• Integrity: Acting honestly and transparently in all endeavors.
• Respect: Valuing diverse perspectives and treating all individuals with dignity.
• Service: Providing exceptional support to members and clubs.
• Excellence: Striving to exceed expectations in all activities and initiatives.

Through its programs, Toastmasters continues to be a vital resource for individuals seeking to improve their communication skills and enhance their leadership capabilities, fostering a community of empowerment and personal development.