Who We Are
Ryerson Toastmasters
The Ryerson Toastmasters is a branch of Toastmasters International run by Ryerson students for Ryerson students. We provide a no-pressure, supportive environment where students can hone their communication and leadership skills and gain confidence by stepping out of their comfort zone.
Toastmasters International
Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Headquartered in Englewood, Colo., the organization’s membership exceeds 364,000 in more than 16,200 clubs in 145 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders.
How it Works
Attend Weekly Meetings
We hold interactive meetings every Tuesday from 6-8 pm where members practice their public speaking and leadership skills.
Sign up to attend a meeting as a guest on our Eventbrite.
Prepare and Deliver Speeches
The best way to improve your skills is to practice. That is why each meeting has timeslots for members to deliver a speech they have prepared.
Learn to Think Quickly
We practice thinking quickly with Table Topics, an impromptu speaking activity where each participant has to deliver a 1-2 min speech on a random topic.
Learn more about Table Topics.
Receive and Give Feedback
Constructive feedback is essential to improving your skills. You can’t get better if you don’t understand what your problems are.
You will also evaluate other members’ speeches. This develops your listening skills and ability to deliver feedback.
Learn more about giving an Effective Evaluation.
Take on Leadership Opportunities
Every meeting requires members to take on leadership roles to help run it. Whether you are running the entire meeting as the Toastmaster, keeping track of the time as the Timer, or testing the group’s listening skills as the Quizmaster.
There are also opportunities to take on leadership roles as a Club Executive. Check out the Careers Page to find out more.
Meet the current Club Officers on our Meet the Team Page.
Compete in Speech Competitions
There are many opportunities throughout the year to put your skills to the test and compete with your fellow Toastmasters or students.
The biggest competition is the International Speech Contest. A public speaking competition that starts at the club level, but offers winners the opportunity to advance all the way to the World Championship of Public Speaking.
Follow an Interactive Educational Program
The Toastmasters Pathways learning experience is an exciting, flexible, and interactive way to develop your skills. Pathways are your guide through the Toastmasters journey and help you learn the communication and leadership skills that you need to succeed.
Learn more about Pathways.
Earn Badges and Certificates
Along your Toastmasters journey, you have the opportunity to earn badges and certificates to demonstrate your skills and dedication to self-improvement to potential employers.
Toastmasters International has clubs in almost 60% of Fortune 500 Companies, so these achievements will be recognized by many employers around the globe.
Learn more about Toastmasters Achievements and Awards.
Ready to Join?
Once you’ve decided that Toastmasters is right for you (you’ve made the right choice!), there are just a few steps to get started on your Toastmasters journey.
1) Visit the Club
The only way to know if Toastmasters is for you is to experience it first-hand, so come on out to a meeting! Guests are always welcome to attend and participate in the fun. It’s easier than ever now that we meet online and you can tune in from the comfort of your own home.
2) Fill out your Membership Application
Fill out the Membership Application Form. You can request the form from the VP of Membership. This gives our team the information they need to create an account for you on Toastmasters.org and get you started with your Pathways journey.
3) Pay your Membership Fee
The cost for Ryerson students is either:
– 25 CAD for membership until March 31, 2021
– 40 CAD for membership until September 30, 2021 (The club runs through the spring and summer semesters)
The cost for Non-Ryerson new members is the standard Toastmasters International 65 USD (prorated depending on how long the membership lasts, might be less depending on the time of year)
This is payable by e-transfer to the club email address. Contact our VP Membership or use the Contact Page to get more information about paying your membership fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens At A Meeting?
When Do You Meet?
We meet every Tuesday from 6:00-8:00pm EST except during exam periods. If you want more details about our next meeting be sure to check out our Eventbrite Page or get in touch with our VP Membership through our Contact Page.
How Do I Join?
We are a Ryerson University club, but are open to anyone who wants to improve their communication and leadership skills!
We recommend anyone considering joining attends a meeting first. The best way to see if Toastmasters is for you is to try it out. If you want to join let us know at the meeting or contact our VP Membership through our Contact Page.
How Are You Dealing With COVID-19
Our meetings have moved to Zoom and will continue be online until it is safe to return to in-person meetings.
We have put a lot of thought and work into making sure you get the same great Toastmasters experience you’re used to. We’ve made a lot of progress and managed to achieve the Online Education Gold award for our excellent standard of education during the pandemic.
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost for Ryerson students is either:
– 25 CAD for membership until March 31, 2021
– 40 CAD for membership until September 30, 2021
The cost for Non-Ryerson new members is the standard Toastmasters International 65 USD (prorated depending on how long the membership lasts, might be less depending on the time of year)
Should I Become A Member?
Only join if you:
• Are motivated to become a better you.
• Are willing to bring your best self forward.
• Make the most of opportunities to be a leader.
• Get excited and nervous to present a speech.
• Like to have fun!