Embrace It: Public Speaking

BY: LIAM WILSON

“We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.” - Toastmasters International

Student delivers speech, introducing themselves to the Toastmasters Club.

Toastmasters is not only a club, but a community of supportive people working together to make each other better. I had the pleasure to take part in one of Toastmasters most recent meetings at St. Lawrence College’s Innovation Hub on January 22, 2020.

Christina Decarie, a Communications Professor in the School of Business, leads this Chapter of Toastmasters. “We are brought together to achieve what could not be done alone,'' Christina explained during the meeting. Students, professors, community members and alumni in attendance support one another in making each member or guest feel welcome and included.

What will you never do? What makes today worth living? What is the best part of growing older? These table topic questions were asked to randomly selected attendees, who answered in front of the room. While my heart raced and palms sweat in anticipation of being selected, I knew what my answers would be if called upon. Toastmasters equips individuals with the communication tools to speak in front of anyone, about anything. 

St. Lawrence College Students and community partners at Toastmasters meeting in the Innovation Hub.

The Innovation Hub is delighted to support the Toastmasters Club by bringing together individuals from various backgrounds to collaborate in the activity of communication. Be sure to come to the next meeting, scheduled every Wednesday from 11:45 am to 1:00 pm in room 12000. If you have any questions, please reach out to Claudio Righetto (crighetto@sl.on.ca).