Taking the first step to face your fears is never easy, but it's something that needs to be done at some point in time.

“I had been avoiding Toastmasters for maybe a decade or better because I simply didn't want to do this,” Simone Brooks, innovation strategist, MVP Healthcare, said. “I did not want to get up and stand in front of people and speak. It just froze me.”

As Brooks saw it, the thought of public speaking was not something she ever considered.

“I would tend to make them an excuse for not presenting or not answering a question or any reason not to have to speak in front of a group,” Brooks said.

But then reality set in. And, eventually, one thing led to another, and so on.

“I now have a lot more opportunities than I've had before, mainly because people see, Oh, someone can do this right?” she said.

The Toastmasters International Organization promotes communication, public speaking, and leadership throughout the world. According to a study conducted by the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Cincinnati, up to 75% of the population fear public speaking.

“In the beginning, it might be difficult because I am a person who is an introvert,” Najuma Herimaat, director of human resources at NYS Department of Civil Services, said. “I know that sounds ridiculous, but I am an introvert and every time I have to speak in front of a group, speak to my coworkers, talk to my supervisor, I have to take a pause, but I'm able to go forth and get my communication out there because I've joined Toastmasters.”

Brooks has developed valuable communication skills that she uses daily in her career, and Toastmasters has become an important part of Simone's life, which is why she continues to take part in the program. 

“I was able to get great feedback not only from Toastmasters, but also from the people at my job who heard me present,” Brooks said. “And it continues to challenge me, which is why I continue to come back.”