Toastmasters is a global community that helps individuals build confidence, improve public speaking, and improve leadership skills.

What is Toastmasters?

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, USA, the organization’s membership exceeds 300,000 in more than 15,800 clubs in 149 countries.

Do I need to contact the club before attending?

It is advised to contact the club beforehand to confirm details.

What kinds of speeches do people deliver?

We follow an online curriculum called Pathways. You work through a series of projects that focus on different aspects of communication and leadership. Each project includes one or two speeches. You choose the topic.

Am I required to speak at a meeting?

When you are a guest at a regular meeting we will ask you to introduce yourself at the beginning of the meeting and ask about your impressions at the end of the meeting. You are not obligated to speak during the meeting itself. You are welcome to observe.

Is there a leader or instructor?

There is no formal instruction at a Toastmasters meeting. Members take turns leading the meeting and performing various roles. All members and club officers are volunteers.

What is a meeting like?

Our meetings last 1.5 to 2 hours and follow an agenda:

Awards and club business

2-3 prepared speeches (each speech is usually 5-7 minutes)

Table Topics: Impromptu speeches (1-2 minutes) on various topics

Evaluations: Evaluations of prepared speeches and reports on aspects of the meeting

Do I have to pay to attend meetings?

Visitors may attend a limited number of meetings free of charge. This gives you a chance to decide whether Toastmasters is suitable and whether you feel comfortable with our members. Visitors may participate in Table Topics or to perform roles such as Jokemaster or Quizmaster.

How do I become a member?

If you would like to participate by giving a speech or performing a major role, we encourage you to join Toastmasters International. This will also give you access to Pathways, our online educational resource. The club Vice President of Membership can provide more information and process your membership application.

Toastmasters International dues are $60 for six months. New members also pay a $20 Pathways fee. Some local clubs also charge a club fee.