While the world is looking towards our Australian athletes in Paris, in Anaheim California USA, Australian talented public speaker Jody Dontje, will take on the best in the world, in the Semi-final of the Toastmasters International World Championship of Public Speaking 14-17 August 2024.
For most people the fear of public speaking is greater than the fear of death. Since joining Toastmasters in 2018 to overcome her speaking nerves, Jody has polished her speaking style, and is now on a trajectory to win the world title.
Jody was just 21 years old when she joined Flinders Lane Toastmasters Club in Melbourne CBD, after starting a not-for-profit movement in Nepal following the devastating earthquakes. Wanting to improve her speaking skills to fundraise for charity projects, she also realised she could network with other speakers to join forces to make a difference in developing countries.
Most people who go to a Toastmasters meeting will join because of the supportive environment, assisting them to become a confident presenter. When Jody first joined, three women placed in the World Championship of Public Speaking. So inspired, she set a goal and with the support of members of her home club and the many members of clubs in District 73, Jody is well on her way to achieve her goal.
This is Jody’s second chance at the World Championship of Public Speaking. In 2022 she reached the Top 28 Speakers Globally, out of 33,000+ contestants that year.
“Speaking on the Semi-Finals Stage in 2022 was incredible, and I am so excited to be there again this year to represent Australia”, Jody says.
She believes in the transformative power of speaking with confidence. Jody shares her skills coaching others, in particular helping female leaders, healers and coaches to overcome their fears of public speaking, own their voice with confidence and elevate abundance in all areas of their life and business.
Toastmasters International is in its 100th year and found in 148 countries across the world, boasting 14,200 clubs and 270,000 members, who have built their confidence in public speaking and leadership. Visitors are always welcome, visit a club today to find out where it can take you!
Find a club https://www.toastmasters.org/find-a-club