Speech Contests
Dreaming of becoming a world class speaker?
Every year, thousands of Toastmasters from over 100 countries take part in the World Championship of Public Speaking®—and it all begins at the club level. Right here in District 91, members can take their first step on this incredible journey by entering the International Speech Contest.
From local club contests, winners progress through Area, Division, and District stages, with the top speakers moving on to the global quarterfinals. The competition continues through the semifinals, where experienced judges select the top eight finalists. These exceptional speakers then take the stage at the world finals to compete for the coveted title of World Champion of Public Speaking.
Each speech is between five and seven minutes long—but the impact can last a lifetime.
Many past champions began as amateurs with a passion for speaking. Some have gone on to build successful careers as professional speakers, delivering keynotes on international stages.
Joining Toastmasters in District 91 could be your first step toward the world stage. Will you be our next champion?
District 91, UK South Speech Contests
Across the UK South our District hosts four contests. All District level contests (Area, Division and District) are in person only contests.
Contests held in District 91
- International Speech Contest*
- Humorous Speech Contest
- Evaluation Contest
- Table Topics Contest
District level contest dates and information are published on the District Calendar.
*This contest proceeds onto the World Championship of Public Speaking®
Club Contests
Clubs can choose to host contests in person, online or hybrid. Clubs can also choose to elect a representative for each contest from the club to compete at area level.
Speech Contest Resources
All members planning to compete in, organise or support a Speech Contest are referred to the Toastmasters International Speech Contest materials, including the relevant Speech Contest Rulebook for that program year.
District 91, UK South Member Specific Information
For the 2025/2026 program year, the Humorous Speech and Table Topic Contest District Finals will be held on Sunday 23 November 2025. The International Speech and Evaluation Contests will be held during the District 91 Conference in May 2026. Please refer to the District Calendar for more information.