Waukesha resident is semifinalist in the world’s largest speech contest at Toastmasters International Convention

David Letkiewicz, of Waukesha, Wisconsin, outshined more than 250 local contestants to win the district-level competition of the Toastmasters International Speech Contest. For the second consecutive year Letkiewicz advances to the semifinal rounds of the contest, vying for one of 10 spots in the World Championship of Public Speaking to be held at the Toastmasters International Convention Friday, Aug. 25 in Vancouver, Canada.

Letkiewicz, a member of North Shore Badgers in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, surpassed fierce competition to win over the judges with his speech, “I Am Not.” The speech touched on the themes of self-belief and self-realization. When it comes to connecting with an audience, he said, “The key is authenticity and vulnerability. Be yourself and be willing to open up your world to the audience.”

Letkiewicz will compete with 101 other winners from districts around the world who advanced to the 2017 semifinal round after a six-month process of elimination through club, area, division and district speech competitions. Their five- to seven-minute speeches were judged on content, organization, gestures and style.

“Toastmasters speech contests are the quickest way to be better. Whether that means better delivery, better speech writing, better storytelling, or overall better confidence. The contest removes you from your comfort zone and provides a path for sharpening your speaking and communication skills” says Letkiewicz. “I am honored to have the opportunity to compete on the International stage in Vancouver!” Letkiewicz is a Planning and Sales Consultant for Northwestern Mutual in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He joined Toastmasters to become a better speaker and leader at work and in the community.

The Toastmasters International Speech Contest began in 1938 and is the world’s largest speech contest, involving 30,000 participants from 142 countries. It culminates with the popular World Championship of Public Speaking held annually at the organization’s International Convention.

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