Conquer Your Fear of Public Speaking: What I Learned at Toastmasters
by TM Nawar Alani
Area 27 Director and Club Treasurer of Baghdad Toastmasters Club, Iraq
If you had told me a decade ago that I would one day be an Area Director at Toastmasters International, overseeing multiple clubs, I would not have believed you. Like many people, I once dreaded speaking in front of a crowd. As an English teacher and translator, I could explain complex grammar rules and interpret between Arabic and English with ease, yet the thought of presenting to a room full of peers made my heart race. Realizing that effective communication would be essential for my career in human resources and learning and development, I looked for a solution. That is when I discovered Toastmasters.
Toastmasters International has been helping people become more confident communicators for nearly a century. Its learn‑by‑doing program offers a supportive environment where members practice prepared speeches, impromptu “Table Topics,” and meeting roles at their own pace. I attended my first meeting in 2018. Rather than judgement, I found encouragement; seasoned members shared constructive feedback, and I saw how much fun public speaking could be. I soon joined the club, and within a year I was elected as Vice President of Membership — responsible for welcoming and mentoring new members.
One of the biggest benefits of Toastmasters is the confidence it fosters. Clubs provide speaking opportunities at every meeting, and the supportive atmosphere allows you to practice without pressure. I started delivering speeches from the Competent Communication manual (now Pathways) and quickly realized how structure, storytelling and vocal variety can transform an ordinary talk into an engaging message. Regular participation in Table Topics sharpened my ability to think on my feet, a skill that later proved invaluable in job interviews and HR negotiations.
Toastmasters is not just about speeches. Because clubs are member‑run, volunteers rotate through roles such as president, vice president education and treasurer. When I stepped into leadership, I learned to plan agendas, manage teams and provide feedback — skills that translated directly to my day job. The organization’s Pathways learning experience focuses on public speaking, interpersonal communication, strategic leadership, management and confidence. Completing projects in these areas helped me hone my coaching abilities, organize training programs and facilitate workshops — all core responsibilities in my roles at UNICEF and later as Head of Learning & Performance Management.
Toastmasters’ clubs span 145 countries and meet in many languages. Iraq clubs are bilingual, giving me opportunities to speak in English and Arabic and to mentor members from diverse backgrounds. This multicultural environment deepened my empathy and cultural awareness. The network extends beyond the club: attending area contests and conferences, I connected with professionals from the Middle East and beyond. Those relationships have led to collaborations, job referrals and lifelong friendships.
In July 2024, I was elected President of Baghdad Toastmasters Club. Stepping into this role during a period of hybrid meetings was both challenging and rewarding. I set a vision to grow membership, enhance meeting quality and foster an inclusive culture. Working with a dedicated executive committee, we introduced themed meetings, educational workshops and joint events with other clubs. As remote work gained prominence — 81 % of workers considered remote work the most important job factor— we adapted by using video conferencing tools and ensuring that online participants felt as engaged as those attending in person. The experience taught me the importance of flexibility, empathy and clear communication.
In 2025, I took another step forward and became Area 27 Director. This role involves supporting and coaching several clubs within our district. I organize area contests, conduct training for club officers and serve as a liaison between the clubs and district leadership. It’s a broader leadership challenge: I now work with different club cultures, help struggling clubs get back on track and ensure that each one provides a quality member experience. The scope has expanded from one club to many, and it has deepened my appreciation for servant leadership — leading by serving others and empowering them to succeed.
The skills I developed in Toastmasters have had a profound impact on my professional life. As a Senior HR Officer at ZainCash Iraq, I confidently facilitated onboarding sessions and negotiated with stakeholders. As Digital Engagement Officer at UNICEF in Iraq, I designed youth programs that empowered young people to find their voices — something I learned firsthand at Toastmasters. In my current role heading learning & performance management, I coach managers on feedback and performance conversations, leveraging the evaluation techniques practiced at every club meeting. Now, as Area 27 Director, I apply strategic leadership and mentorship skills to support both my company and the wider Toastmasters community.
My journey has taught me that public speaking is not a talent reserved for a select few; it’s a skill anyone can develop with the right support. Here are a few takeaways for those starting their own journey:
- Find a safe space to practice:Toastmasters clubs provide a structured yet supportive environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities.
- Embrace feedback:Constructive evaluations are at the heart of improvement. Listen, reflect and incorporate suggestions into your next speech.
- Serve others:Taking on club and area roles accelerates growth. Leadership positions teach organization, delegation and empathy.
- Be consistent:Like any skill, confidence grows with regular practice. Attend meetings, participate in Table Topics and volunteer for roles.
- Connect your learning to your goals:Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, want to inspire change in your community, or simply wish to express yourself better, tailor your speeches to align with your aspirations.
Your Voice Matters
Public speaking remains a critical skill in our increasingly digital world. Whether you are presenting in a boardroom, pitching an idea online or leading a community project, the ability to communicate clearly and confidently opens doors. Toastmasters transformed my fear into a passion and empowered me to lead at the club and area levels. If you are considering joining, know that you will not only become a better speaker — you will become a more effective leader, listener and communicator. Your voice has power; it is time to let it be heard.
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Toastmaster TM Nawar Alani is toastmaster member since 2019. Current Area 27 Director, Immediate Past President at Baghdad Toastmasters, Former SAA, VPM, Current Treasurer at Baghdad Toastmasters. He has done BA in English and an MBA graduate.