Werribee Toastmasters celebrated a pretty significant milestone on Wednesday 4 February, clocking up their 1000th meeting.
For decades, the group has helped locals from all walks of life work on and gain confidence in public speaking.
President Shylendra Zalke said the milestone was the reflection of many lives of enhancers across a variety of industries.
“This milestone meeting celebrates not just a number, but the impact the club has had on personal growth, inclusion, and confidence-building within the local community,” he said.
Currently, people aged 18 to 75 participate and share an array of experiences with one another.
Having been part of it for two years, Mr Zalke said speaking well is the gateway to opportunities.
“People who come there are mostly migrants or students at a stage of life where they want to change and they become aware that speaking is one of the most important ways of doing so.
“I feel that sometimes we don’t get opportunities because we are not able to speak, so we hold ourselves back because we think we aren’t good enough.
“Everyone has a story to tell…but you don’t become a confident speaker overnight.
“Personally, I worked in the finance industry for 25 years and am now getting into coaching, which requires you to speak to people.”
While the Toastmasters may be proud of their history, they are equally eager for their future and want more people to come along.
Those looking to improve their communication skills, confidence, or leadership presence in a supportive environment can email werribeetoastmasters@gmail.com
