My First Year in Toastmasters – Stepping into the Spotlight
By Gerlando Termini,
VP of Education – Lakeside Speakeasy TM Club
What I have learned in the year since I joined the Lakeside Speakeasy Club is that Toastmasters offers more than public speaking practice: it’s a journey of leadership and self-assuredness. With an icebreaker speech, I dove into personal narrative, showcasing vulnerability turned into courage. My club fosters camaraderie, providing feedback that fuels growth. Through roles like evaluator and timer, I gained rounded skills. Quick thinking is refined through impromptu Table Topics.
Leadership flourishes as I take initiative and help onboard newcomers as VP of Education. Toastmasters is a community of constant self-improvement. As I advance to more speeches, I can see how my journey symbolizes growth from shyness to confidence. Each new member like me enriches the club’s fabric, weaving diverse experiences. In a world valuing communication, every new Toastmasters journey is a celebration of potential and courage.