News Releases

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, Calif., Aug. 23, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Toastmasters International, the global organization devoted to communication and leadership skills development, experienced its 23^rd consecutive year of growth. In that time, the organization has more than doubled its membership. Today, Toastmasters has more than 352,000 members in 16,400 clubs and a presence in 141 countries.

"The fact that our organization continues to grow year after year is proof that people see the need to enhance their communication and leadership skills," says Mike Storkey, Toastmasters 2016-2017 International President. "There is an increasing demand for strong speakers and leaders. Toastmasters offers a place to develop those skills in a cost-effective and supportive environment."

Highlights of Toastmasters' annual growth include:

• 2.1 percent membership increase
• 1,539 new clubs formed, a 4.8 percent increase
• Nearly 700 new corporate Toastmasters clubs chartered
• More than 74,000 education achievement awards earned by members, a 3.7 percent increase
• The organization's highest rate of growth was outside of North America

"Our club and membership growth around the world is a testament to our ability to provide programs that help improve people's personal and professional lives regardless of location," says Toastmasters Chief Executive Officer Daniel Rex. "Our organization is committed to meeting our members' needs and providing them with the tools and resources to become more effective communicators and leaders."

To discuss Toastmasters' growth and the organization's future direction with CEO Daniel Rex, email pr@toastmasters.org. To view a chart of Toastmasters' membership growth since 1990, visit http://www.toastmasters.org/membershipgrowthchart.

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, Calif., the organization's membership exceeds 352,000 in more than 16,400 clubs in 141 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.

SOURCE Toastmasters International