Finding My Voice Again: A Womxn in Higher Education Redefining Communication Through Toastmasters

For more than twenty years, I have worked in higher education—supporting students, leading initiatives, mentoring emerging leaders, and creating spaces where learning and belonging intersect. Communication has always been at the heart of that work. I have spoken in classrooms, committee meetings, and conference stages. Yet with experience came an unexpected realization: being a seasoned communicator does not mean being a finished one. 

As womxn—particularly womxn in leadership—our communication often carries unspoken expectations: be confident, but not intimidating; assertive, but not emotional; clear, but not forceful; visible, but not too bold. Balancing clarity with diplomacy is a skill. Balancing authenticity with expectation is an art. That tension is what led me back to Toastmasters. 

Rejoining Toastmasters was an intentional investment in myself—an acknowledgment that even strong communicators benefit from structure, practice, and feedback. Virtual clubs made participation flexible and accessible, allowing me to learn alongside global professionals from the comfort of my laptop. Soon after, I joined a bilingual Spanish–English club. As a Latinx, Spanish is deeply rooted in who I am, yet for years I rarely used it professionally. Delivering speeches in both languages stretched me in the best possible way. It reminded me that my voice exists fully in two languages and that communication is about connection—not perfection. Showing up authentically is, in itself, a form of leadership. 

One of the most transformative elements of Toastmasters has been Table Topics—those impromptu one- to two-minute speeches delivered with no preparation. What initially felt uncomfortable quickly became powerful training for real-world communication: job interviews, elevator pitches, moderating discussions, and responding under pressure. These micro-moments mirrored what we encourage in our students—to introduce themselves confidently, think on their feet, and speak with clarity. Over time, I noticed a shift. I was organizing thoughts faster, speaking more concisely, and maintaining composure even when I did not know what was coming next. Those small moments built significant confidence. 

Toastmasters is also far more than delivering speeches. Each meeting includes roles designed to strengthen different areas of leadership and communication. As an Evaluator, I practiced giving meaningful and constructive feedback. As a Grammarian, I learned to listen with intention and appreciate the precision of language. Serving as Toastmaster—the moderator of the meeting—helped me refine pacing, set tone, and guide flow, all skills essential in academic spaces where managing dialogue and nuance matters. With every role, I was practicing not just speaking, but listening, organizing, facilitating, and leading. 

Growth sometimes happens quietly, then shows up loudly. Recently, I moderated a virtual alumni panel—something I have done many times before, yet this experience felt different. I felt grounded, intentional, and present. My pacing was steady, transitions were smooth, and my delivery felt natural. The panel was engaging and rich with insight, but afterward, something unexpected happened. I received several emails complimenting not just the panelists but also my facilitation. One message described me as “an outstanding communicator.” Another said my moderation elevated the conversation. In that moment, I realized Toastmasters was not just helping me speak better—it was helping me lead better. 

Working in higher education requires navigating diverse audiences—students, faculty, staff, alumni, families, partners, and community stakeholders. Toastmasters strengthened my ability to adapt my message without losing authenticity. Communication shifted from something I used to something I shaped—with intention. It became less about sounding prepared and more about being present. Less about performing and more about connecting. Less about speaking and more about leading. 

This journey has reminded me that growth is ongoing. Confidence is not a personality trait—it is a practiced skill. Communication is not a one-time learning moment—it is a lifelong discipline. Now, whether I speak in English or Spanish, in person or virtually, I do so with intentionality, cultural pride, and renewed clarity. 

For any womxn still finding her voice: your bilingualism is not a barrier—it is a superpower. Your pauses are not hesitation—they are precision. Your growth is not delayed—it is unfolding exactly as it should. Keep practicing. Keep showing up. Keep speaking. Someone needs not only your message but also the leader you are becoming as you deliver it. 

Professional development comes in many forms, and sometimes the most meaningful growth happens when we step outside our comfort zone. If you are ready—or even just curious—about Toastmasters and how it can support your communication and leadership journey, I encourage you to explore your options. There are in-person, virtual, and bilingual clubs across the world. Strengthening your voice is more than improving how you speak—it is elevating how you lead.

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