What is Toastmasters?
Toastmasters is a US-headquartered nonprofit educational organization that operates clubs worldwide to promote communication, public speaking, and leadership skills. Founded in the United States in 1924, it has more than 350,000 members in 143 countries worldwide, including about 4,000 members in Japan (in about 200 clubs). Members take part in learning activities in English, Japanese and other languages. Toastmasters has helped people from diverse backgrounds gain the confidence to speak in public and become leaders.
Ray Roman’s Toastmasters History
1998: I joined a small local club in Seattle, Washington, USA
2000-2012: I served as a group leader in various settings, planning and carrying out educational programs and membership drives. I rose through progressively more responsible volunteer positions over a period of several years, teaching volunteer leaders how to train and lead club members, build new clubs and increase club membership.
2012-2025: I started two Toastmasters clubs in Sendai, Miyagi and in 2018-19, served as local advisor (“area director”) for Tohoku, Japan clubs. I have also helped in the starting of clubs in Akita City, Akita Prefecture and Morioka, Iwate Prefecture. I actively participate in three clubs in Tohoku, giving advice on educational programs and membership growth strategy.