A century ago,
Ralph Smedley launched his visionary idea to help individuals develop
speaking skills and nurture their self-confidence. Learn how his simple
concept—to teach people communication and leadership skills in an
experiential learning setting—grew from a single club into the global
communication powerhouse that it is today.
Confident
Voices explores the people, events, and stories that shaped
Toastmasters International in this decade-by-decade analysis, including
fascinating highlights:
How the education program evolved from a simple pamphlet to a robust
digital learning program
The enduring spirit of prisoner-of-war clubs in WWII and the Vietnam
War
How one magazine article ignited growth around the world
The explosion of club growth in Asia
And so much more!
Trace the resilient journey of an organization that has touched millions of
lives in nearly 150 countries. Learn how the organization navigated through
wars, economic challenges, seismic societal shifts, the COVID-19 pandemic,
and beyond. Through it all, discover the remarkable achievements and
universal spirit that bind Toastmasters members across diverse cultures and
continents.
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Slide 1:
Praise for Confident Voices
“This book beautifully shows how we don’t just join a club, we join Toastmasters International; and while we join for ourselves, we are all part of a 100-year legacy of members whose lives have been changed through this organization. This book shows how Toastmasters has impacted over eight million lives, and is a worthy addition to every Toastmaster’s home.”
Balraj Arunasalam, DTM, 2017–2018 International President
Slide 2:
Praise for Confident Voices
“It’s truly remarkable that such a simple vision of one man 100 years ago has evolved into a global organization that has changed millions of people’s lives. You can’t help but be inspired by reading this book!”
Morag Mathieson, DTM, 2023–2024 International President
Slide 3:
Praise for Confident Voices
“The resiliency of our founder, our members, and the organization are on full display throughout this book. We are an organization of leaders who stand strong in challenging times. An organization of inspiring speakers bringing encouragement to others. An organization of members striving to make a positive change in themselves, in others, and in the world around them. This book reinforces that the world is a better place because of Toastmasters.”
Richard E. Peck, DTM, 2020–2021 International President
Slide 4:
Praise for Confident Voices
“Reading this book shows how much Toastmasters has both advanced and stayed true to its original purpose – helping people be better communicators and leaders in a club environment. Whether you’re new to Toastmasters history or count yourself among the ranks of Toastmasters subject matter experts, you will discover something new in these pages.”
Radhi Spear, DTM, 2024–2025 International President
Praise for Confident Voices
“This book beautifully shows how we don’t just join a club, we join Toastmasters International; and while we join for ourselves, we are all part of a 100-year legacy of members whose lives have been changed through this organization. This book shows how Toastmasters has impacted over eight million lives, and is a worthy addition to every Toastmaster’s home.”
Balraj Arunasalam, DTM, 2017–2018 International President
Praise for Confident Voices
“It’s truly remarkable that such a simple vision of one man 100 years ago has evolved into a global organization that has changed millions of people’s lives. You can’t help but be inspired by reading this book!”
Morag Mathieson, DTM, 2023–2024 International President
Praise for Confident Voices
“The resiliency of our founder, our members, and the organization are on full display throughout this book. We are an organization of leaders who stand strong in challenging times. An organization of inspiring speakers bringing encouragement to others. An organization of members striving to make a positive change in themselves, in others, and in the world around them. This book reinforces that the world is a better place because of Toastmasters.”
Richard E. Peck, DTM, 2020–2021 International President
Praise for Confident Voices
“Reading this book shows how much Toastmasters has both advanced and stayed true to its original purpose – helping people be better communicators and leaders in a club environment. Whether you’re new to Toastmasters history or count yourself among the ranks of Toastmasters subject matter experts, you will discover something new in these pages.”
Radhi Spear, DTM, 2024–2025 International President