MOOSE JAW — Big Country Toastmasters is inviting Moose Jaw-area residents to take their public speaking skills to the next level through its weekly “Speechcraft” program, set to launch Wednesday, April 23.
The program is designed for individuals who want to improve their communication and leadership abilities — particularly those who speak publicly, lead meetings, teach, or are looking to build confidence in professional or volunteer roles.
Speechcraft sessions will take place every Wednesday for a six-week period from 7 to 8:15 p.m. in the boardroom of the Moose Jaw Sask. Polytech campus. For those who are tech-savvy or have accessibility concerns, the program is also offered via Zoom.
The cost is $100, which includes a Toastmasters club membership until the end of September.
“Speechcraft is an amazing (way) to help (improve) your communication and leadership skills,” said Cathy Morrell, vice president and treasurer of Big Country Toastmasters. “There are people who are running major meetings throughout the community and around the province. There are a lot of skills that you can get from Toastmasters — not just communication and speaking skills.”
Participants will explore key areas such as vocal variety, body language, and how to craft effective speeches — skills Morrell described as applicable throughout life.
“You learn about vocal variety, gestures, and how to put together a speech. There are many, many things that you can learn from this…,” she said.
Speechcraft is structured as a short, intensive course that condenses key lessons from Toastmasters’ traditional curriculum.
“I call it ‘Toastmasters on steroids,’” Morrell said with a chuckle. “We cram a lot of material into a very short course to teach you the major (elements of) speaking skills.”
The program is open to everyone, including those who may not be able to attend in person thanks to the online participation option.
Toastmasters alumni include well-known community leaders and former municipal politicians, with Morrell pointing to former Saskatchewan MLA Glenn Hagel — who delivered a special open house presentation on Sept. 25, 2024, to commemorate his former Toastmasters membership — as one noteworthy example.
“I’ve been a part of Toastmasters since 2003 and they taught me a lot,” she said, citing her own successful experience as one source of confidence behind her extended invitation. Now retired, Morrell said she’s using her skills more than ever in volunteer roles such as with SCRAPS Moose Jaw.
If you’re interested in registering for Speechcraft or learning more about Toastmasters, contact Cathy Morrell at 306-630-7015 or by email at [email protected]. Further information is available online at BigCountry.ToastmastersClubs.org.
In-person sessions will be held at the Sask. Polytech Campus in Moose Jaw, located at 600 Saskatchewan Street West.
