By Tia Atanasova
Why did I join Toastmasters?
I have always had a very lively, energetic, social personality. I absolutely love being around people! But as a child growing up with stammer, it was hard for me to find my voice. Engaging an audience, no matter how big or small, was a deep rooted fear. On the one hand, it made me a good listener. But on the other hand, it was holding me back from what I wanted – to be a strong and eloquent speaker. Not being able to express my thoughts, I spent a sufficient amount of time reading, mostly classic Russian novels, Ancient Greek literature and philosophical essays. I ended up having so much to say, but at the same time so little confidence to stand up and do it.