This story is made possible through the support of Housser's Paint and Wallpaper as part of OrilliaMatters' Community Leaders Program
Toastmasters Clubs have been in existence since 1924, when the first club was started in Santa Ana, California, by Ralph C. Smedley. Smedley wanted to create a collaborative learning environment where young men could learn the art of public speaking.
“A century later, nearly 8 million members (of all genders) in 148 countries and territories around the world have worked on bettering themselves, thanks to Smedley’s vision of a club environment where members prepare and deliver speeches, respond to impromptu questions, and give and receive constructive feedback,” said a Toastmasters spokesperson.
Here in Orillia, the Sunshine Speakers Toastmasters Club celebrated its 27th anniversary in June of this year. This club meets virtually every second and fourth Monday of the month at 7 p.m. Club President Laura Joyce explained that the club is in a rebuilding phase.
“We have been meeting online via Zoom since the Covid-19 pandemic,” she said. “Currently we are a small club of less than 10 people, but we are looking into ways to grow our membership.”
She added, “We would like to transition to hybrid meetings in the near future and are looking for a venue that can support a larger group than we have at the present time.”
Joyce joined the Sunshine Speakers 12 years ago. “I joined to network with different individuals in my community. As well, I like to write, and Toastmasters was a way for me to express myself through the speeches I have written.”
“In addition, I wanted to get over my fear of public speaking. As a result of being a Toastmaster, my fear has dissipated significantly,” she finished.
Why join Toastmasters?
Joyce answered, “People should join Toastmasters because it helps them develop their public speaking skills, shows individuals the skills they never knew they had, and increases self-confidence and personal growth. Being a Toastmaster allows you to interact and network with different individuals you would not have met if you did not join.”
The Sunshine Speakers Toastmasters Club is a warm and welcoming club who would love to have you come out to a meeting as a guest, for free, and see what the club is all about.
Joyce explained, “We are a group of supportive individuals who encourage each other to be and do our best. We provide support to all adults, which includes anyone and everyone who would like to join!”
To find out more about the Sunshine Speakers Toastmasters Club, email Joyce at [email protected] or go here to get the online link for the next meeting.
