What is Toastmasters?
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 300,000 in more than 15,800 clubs in 149 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators, and leaders.
What you can learn at Toastmasters
First, find a club near you!
Everything in Toastmasters revolves around the club. There are more than 200 clubs in Japan, so you should be able to find one near you.
In Japan, there are clubs that meet in [English only], clubs that meet in [Japanese only], and clubs that are [bilingual], and in recent years, there are clubs that meet not only in English but also in Chinese, Korean, Italian, and French.
You are not obliged to join the first club you visit. You can visit several clubs until you find the one that suits you best.
Be sure to check the club’s website or email for meeting times and locations before you visit. Most clubs will allow you to visit for free the first few times. (The number of free visits varies from club to club.)
Ready to join?
When you find a club you want to join, first contact the club’s officers. The club officer will send your registration information and dues to Toastmasters International Headquarters, and once approved, you will become an official member. As soon as Toastmasters International contacts your email address, you will be able to access members-only information, including Pathways, on the Toastmasters website.
Approximate costs for Toastmasters
Enrollment fee: about 4000 yen
Membership fee: about 1500 yen/month (collected every six months)
※The admission fee and membership fee vary from club to club. Check before you join.
