TORONTO - Sept. 14, 2020 - Torontonians Reskilling for the New World of Work
Learning from each other and the World Champion of Public SpeakingTM
The pandemic has meant every worker has had to learn new skills, notably how to run or participate in a Zoom call. And they've had to flex existing skills, such as leading a team, giving effective feedback, or selling an idea, to do those at a distance.
Across Toronto and beyond, thousands of people are meeting every week to hone those skills. Learning from each other in self-organizing Toastmasters clubs, they're overcoming obstacles as diverse as intense shyness, English as a second language, and being frozen in fear at just the thought of speaking in front of an audience.
"It's immensely heartwarming to see people struggle and break through those barriers," said Wendy Williamson, District Director of Toastmasters clubs stretching from the 427 to Belleville. "In a polarized and sometimes fearful world, Toastmasters offers a safe place for anyone to try new techniques and find their voice."
Club membership is by subscription, but this Saturday (September 19th) anyone is welcome to join a free masterclass given by Pres Vasilev, the 2013 World Champion of Public SpeakingTM*.
Already, nearly 200 people have registered for the masterclass, and the remaining spots can be booked by registering at www.toastmasters60.com.
"Our philosophy at Toastmasters is to learn from each other," said Wendy Williamson, "and this is an outstanding opportunity to learn from one of our very best. We welcome everyone, without obligation, to listen in and pick up some skills that they can apply the very next day.
Better communication helps everyone – at home, at work, in every aspect of our lives."
* The World Champion of Public SpeakingTM is the title awarded to the winner of Toastmasters' annual worldwide competition, open to its over 357,000 members.
About Toastmasters District 60
Over 4,000 members in 205 clubs comprise District 60, stretching from the 427 to Belleville. The clubs are based in workplaces and communities, and hold regular – usually, weekly - meetings to develop presentation, listening, feedback and leadership skills. https://www.toastmasters60.com/
About Toastmasters International
Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Headquartered in Englewood, Colo., the organization's membership exceeds 357,000 in more than 16,600 clubs in 143 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators and leaders.
Media Contact
District 60 Toastmasters
Andrew Horberry - Public Relations Manager
