No, not that kind of Toastmaster!

Lets get this clear from the start. I am a member of Toastmasters International not any other Toastmastering organization. I am not being picky or pedantic, the difference really is important. Let me explain.

In the UK there are a number of groups using the term "Toastmaster". Most of them are listed at the Toastmaster's General Council. These elegantly dressed men and women are experts in etiquette and will make your wedding, banquet, masonic festival or whatever function you are planning run perfectly. They are obsessively passionate about providing the best service they possibly can. They are, however, nothing to do with Toastmasters International.

Toastmasters International was founded in 1924 by Ralph C. Smedley in Santa Ana California and soon spread worldwide. It is a public speaking club, actually more than that because those that fully follow its program don't just become better speakers they also gain invaluable leadership skills as well.  It was registered as not-for-profit (you can do that in the US) and exists purely to improve people's lives. It's members don't wear red coats or any kind of costume. They come from all walks of life but they do have one thing in common; they want to be able to stand up in front of any group of people and inspire, persuade or amuse them effortlessly.

So you see, they are very different and confusion abounds. I dream of a day when people on hearing the word "Toastmaster" ask "Are you talking about the public speakers or the event organizers?". Lets see what happens.