What is Toastmasters?

What is Toastmasters?

Toastmasters is an international non-profit organization which aims to develop public speaking and leadership skills in men and women of all ages. This is done by providing members with a friendly environment to practice public speaking as well as giving them constructive feedback. In Toastmasters, there are no teachers only students, every single members learns at their own pace, while being helped by. fellow members along the way.

History of Toastmasters

Even the greatest successes may start with a humblest beginning. This is no exception for Toastmasters International. Toastmasters International was first founded by Dr Ralph C. Smedley in the basement of  YMCA, Santa Ana, California. During that period of time, Smedley was working as the director of education for YMCA. He realized that a lot of young men at that time lacked proficiency in the art of public speaking and presiding over meetings. Therefore Smedley decided to help them by providing them with training which would later form the backbone of Toastmaster speeches.

Why the Name "Toastmasters"?

During the early 1900's the word "toastmaster" referred to a person who proposes the toasts and introduced the speakers at a banquet. Hence, Smedley named his group "Toastmasters" as he felt this suggested a pleasant and social atmosphere which was appealing to the public.

Toastmasters International Today

Ever since that fateful day in 1924, Toastmasters International has expanded from its basement origins to become an international organization with more than 13,000 clubs which have a membership of more than 270,000 members in 116 countries across the world. Even now as we speak, Ralph Smedley's Basement Brainstorm continues to thrive in the 21st Century!!!