Regular Meeting 140, Mar. 17, 2026 (Hybrid)

What I Gained from Toastmasters

On March 3rd, several guests joined our Toastmasters meeting. How lovely! During the guest guidance session, we talked about what Toastmasters is and what skills people can develop through the program. As I was sharing these things, I remembered what it was like when I first started Toastmasters.

At that time, I could barely speak in front of people. My voice was very quiet.

However, Toastmasters gave me a place where I could practice speaking again and again in a supportive environment. Through this journey, I developed several valuable skills.

Confidence

When I first joined Toastmasters, speaking in front of people felt intimidating.

At first, my voice was barely audible. Through repeated practice, I learned how to project my voice and speak with confidence.

Standing in front of an audience was challenging at the beginning, but each speech and various roles helped me grow stronger and more confident.

Time Management

One of the most valuable skills I gained from Toastmasters is time management.

Toastmasters speeches are delivered within a limited time, which helped me develop a strong sense of timing. Learning to express ideas clearly within a set timeframe is an important professional skill. By facilitating meetings, I also learned how to guide the session smoothly and keep everything running on schedule.

Communication Skills

Toastmasters also helped me improve my communication skills.

Through giving and receiving evaluations, I learned how to choose the right words and provide constructive feedback that helps others improve. These skills have been incredibly helpful in my professional life, especially when working with teams.

Networking

One of the most rewarding aspects of Toastmasters is the opportunity to meet people from many different professions and backgrounds. Through these interactions, I learned to appreciate diversity and became more open and understanding toward others.

Broader Perspectives

Listening to speeches from members with different experiences helped me see situations from multiple perspectives. It broadened my worldview and changed the way I approach challenges and conversations.

A Place to Grow

Toastmasters is more than just a place to practice public speaking.

It is a place where people support each other, challenge themselves, and grow together.

Nervous to speak? You’re not alone. Start your journey with Shin-Osaka Leaders Toastmasters Club.

Guests are always welcome to visit our meeting and experience Toastmasters for themselves.

Maho Hummel

President 2025-2026