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RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, Calif., July 28, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- The results are in: 96 contestants have risen from a pool of 30,000 participants from 126 countries to earn their spot in the Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking. The contest culminates the organization's 2015 International Convention, held Aug. 12-15 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

Ninety six winners from districts around the world advanced to the semifinal round after a six-month process of elimination through club, area, division and district speech competitions. Their five- to seven-minute speeches were judged on content, organization, gestures and style.

The semifinals take place Aug. 13, where 10 finalists will emerge. They will compete again two days later for the coveted title of Toastmasters World Champion of Public Speaking.

"The World Championship of Public Speaking is the highlight of the International Convention," says Mohammed Murad, Toastmasters 2014-2015 International President. "The audience will be treated to a globally diverse group of speakers showcasing oratory skills that have been enhanced through the Toastmasters program."

The 2015 semifinalists hail from major cities around the world. See the complete list here.

In addition to speech contests, the convention will host other events including Opening Ceremonies, education sessions, keynote presentations and the President's Inauguration Reception.

The Toastmasters International Convention takes place Aug. 12-15 at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. Each of the 96 contestants has an interesting story to share about their journey to the Las Vegas stage. To set up an interview with a contestant, email pr@toastmasters.org.

For more information about the 2015 International Convention, please visit http://www.toastmasters.org/Events/2015-International-Convention.

About Toastmasters International
Toastmasters International is a worldwide nonprofit educational organization that empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders. Headquartered in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, the organization's membership exceeds 313,000 in more than 14,650 clubs in 126 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators and leaders. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit www.toastmasters.org. Follow @Toastmasters on Twitter.

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SOURCE Toastmasters International