UPDATE: easySPEAK 2025+
A bit of history and a thank you to Malcolm
- In January 2005, at a small meeting in Bicester Speakers, Malcolm Warden introduced what would soon become a transformative innovation in the Toastmasters community: easySPEAK. Initially conceived as a straightforward solution to streamline the confirmation of meeting roles for club members, this innovative software quickly evolved into a vital tool for clubs worldwide.
- By May 2005, easySPEAK was fully operational and was introduced to all members of Bicester Speakers as their primary system for managing roles and meetings. Its simplicity and effectiveness soon drew attention, and neighboring clubs quickly began requesting access.
- Recognizing its potential, District 71 showcased easySPEAK at their subsequent conference, significantly amplifying its reach. District 59 soon followed suit, and from these pivotal endorsements, easySPEAK rapidly grew into a global asset, adopted by thousands of Toastmasters clubs around the world.
- As we approach easySPEAK’s 20th anniversary, Malcolm reflects fondly on the journey. While he’s immensely proud of its growth and impact, he’s also announced a significant transition: from October onward, Malcolm will step away from his active role in maintaining and supporting easySPEAK.
- Having dedicated nearly two decades of tireless work to developing, improving, and maintaining the platform, Malcolm, who stepped away from active Toastmasters membership in 2018, feels it’s time to pass the baton. EasySPEAK stands today as a testament to Malcolm’s innovation, vision, and dedication—a tool born from necessity that became a global phenomenon.
- As we celebrate this impressive milestone, we honor Malcolm Warden’s legacy and look forward to seeing easySPEAK continue empowering effective communication and leadership within Toastmasters worldwide.