You’ve probably heard of Toastmasters before – well, you are here on our website. But how much do you actually know? It can’t just be about making toasts. So, what is Toastmasters? And more importantly — what can joining a club like Miranda Toastmasters actually do for you?
Let’s look at a few of the reasons why becoming a member might just be the best decision you make this year (especially if public speaking makes your palms sweaty).
The Basics — What is Toastmasters?
Toastmasters International is a global, nonprofit organisation that helps people improve their public speaking and leadership skills. Clubs are run by volunteers, meet regularly, and follow a structured yet flexible format that makes learning fun and unintimidating.
Miranda Toastmasters, located in the Sutherland Shire, is part of that network — and we’re proud of the warm, welcoming, and inspiring community we’ve built.
But Toastmasters isn’t just about making toasts or speeches.
It’s about:
- Discovering your voice
- Building confidence in communication
- Learning how to give and receive feedback
- Taking leadership roles (at your own pace)
- Practising in a judgement-free, encouraging environment
And doing it all with people who want to see you succeed.
“But I’m Not a Public Speaker” — Perfect, You’re in the Right Place
A lot of people think Toastmasters is only for aspiring TED Talkers or career coaches. Not true.
Most of our members joined Toastmasters because they weren’t confident speakers — not because they already were. Some wanted to stop mumbling through work presentations. Others had a best man’s speech looming on the calendar. Some simply wanted to feel less anxious in meetings or interviews.
Whatever the reason, the goal is the same ... progress.
You don’t have to be perfect, polished, or professional to join Miranda Toastmasters. You just have to show up and be willing to learn and will to try new things. We’ll help with the rest.
Five Ways Toastmasters Can Change Your Life (yes, really)
- Confidence You Can Carry Anywhere
From the boardroom to the backyard BBQ, being able to express yourself clearly is a massive life skill. Whether you're pitching an idea, raising a concern, or telling a funny story — Toastmasters helps you own your message. - Feedback That Actually Helps (Not Hurts)
Constructive, kind, and specific — feedback at Toastmasters is designed to build you up. You’ll learn how to give it and receive it — an underrated leadership skill that transfers into real-world relationships, fast. - Real Leadership Experience, No Risk
Ever chaired a meeting? Managed a team? Toastmasters gives you hands-on leadership opportunities in a safe setting. Whether it’s running a meeting or mentoring a new member, you’ll develop skills that employers love — without the pressure. - Social Skills Without the Small Talk Pain
Meeting new people can be awkward. At Toastmasters, it’s structured enough to avoid the dread of forced chit-chat, but relaxed enough that genuine friendships grow. It’s one of the least painful networking experiences you’ll ever have. - Personal Growth That Feels Natural
Progress isn’t measured in perfect grammar or memorised speeches. It’s in showing up, giving it a go, and noticing how one day, you’re no longer afraid to raise your hand or speak up. That’s real growth — and it sticks.
What Happens When You Visit a Meeting?
When you come to a Miranda Toastmasters meeting, you’ll be welcomed as a guest (no pressure to speak, but hey you’re there, so we recommend you jump in feet first). You’ll get to observe how a typical meeting runs, which usually includes:
- Prepared speeches from members
- Short impromptu speaking (called Table Topics)
- Evaluations
- A business session to learn how to conduct a meeting
- Lots of support, lots of laughs, and lots of clapping
You’re encourage you to attend a couple of meetings before deciding if you want to join. And if you do join — we’ll help you ease in, set your own pace, and find your voice.
It’s not about perfection — It’s about progress
You don’t need to be funny, extroverted, or a natural speaker. You just need to be curious, willing, and open to giving it a go.
At Miranda Toastmasters, we believe everyone has a voice worth hearing — and we’re here to help you discover yours.
Ready to see what it’s all about?
Come along to a meeting — we’d love to meet you.
We meet on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month.
Meetings start at 7:00pm sharp and ask everyone arrive by 6.50pm and they’re usually over by 9:30pm Meetings go for around 2.5 hours, with a break in the middle.
For more information, visit the pages on this website, particularly the What’s On page.Or can email us and let us know you'll be there.
We hope to see you at a meeting.