Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year 2025 – Celebrating Robyn Richards
Celebrating Robyn Richards: trailblazer, mentor, and Outstanding Toastmaster of the Year whose journey proves confidence can change everything.
From stumbling over a basketball award acceptance speech to becoming one of District 17’s most inspiring leaders, Robyn’s journey in Toastmasters is nothing short of remarkable.
“I joined Toastmasters because I was just plain terrible at public speaking,” she recalls. “At first, it was all about me—my nerves, my confidence, my ability to speak. But today, it couldn’t be further from the truth. Now it’s about helping others find their voice and believe in themselves.”
Over the years, Robyn has transformed from a hesitant speaker into a leader who empowers others. The lessons she learned didn’t just shape her communication style—they changed her life. Her children, friends, and staff noticed the difference. Feedback conversations became easier, relationships grew stronger, and her confidence flourished.
Her dedication to service within Toastmasters has been extraordinary. Among her many achievements:
- Three Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) awards, with a fourth soon to be completed.
- The first female District Governor of District 17, leading the District to achieve President’s Distinguished District Governor (2014–2015).
- Instrumental in chartering seven clubs, expanding opportunities for countless new members to learn and grow.
- Pride in her home club, Canning Vale, which has achieved President’s Distinguished status with 10 goals for 17 years in succession.
Yet, beyond the awards and titles, what drives Robyn is seeing others grow. “From confidence comes growth and self-belief. I love seeing new members learn and blossom. If only they could believe in themselves as much as others believe in them. That’s what I try to instil in people today.”
Her message is clear and powerful: What’s your dream? Let’s fulfill it.
Robyn’s story reminds us that Toastmasters is not just about learning to speak—it’s about discovering your potential, building confidence, and uplifting others along the way.
