Ponsonby’s casual, humorous and supportive public-speaking club
You know that flutter of nerves before speaking in front of people — the racing heart, the dry mouth, the hope that someone else gets picked first? We’ve all been there. At Twilight Talkers Ponsonby, that flutter isn’t something to fear. It’s where all the best things begin. Every second Tuesday, a group of us gathers to do something quietly wonderful — help each other build the confidence and skills to speak, present and lead in front of others. Twilight Talkers is a welcoming club affiliated with Toastmasters International, with members from all walks of life. And we’d love you to check us out.
What actually happens at a meeting?
You might picture something formal and intimidating. The reality is the opposite — our meetings are warm, relaxed and genuinely good fun. Each fortnight, a few members give short prepared speeches while others try impromptu “Table Topics” — speaking off the cuff on a surprise subject. They also develop leadership skills by learning to share motivating and constructive feedback with one another.
There’s never any pressure to perform, and newcomers are welcome to sit back and watch as guests before deciding whether to join in.
Why do people join?
What they find — often surprisingly quickly — is that the confidence they build follows them well beyond their Tuesday nights. A lot of quietly spoken mentorship goes on in the background. Some join to advance their careers. Others want the confidence to speak at weddings, farewells, community events or important family occasions. And a few have caught the bug completely — going on to compete nationally and internationally, and even to give TED Talks.
A supportive community worth being part of
What sets us apart is the people. We’re a small, diverse and very supportive group — professionals, creatives, career changers, retirees and newcomers to Auckland — all united by a desire to keep growing.
Drop in. Grab a drink. See for yourself.
We meet every second Tuesday, 6.30pm–8pm, at the Ponsonby Community Centre, 20 Ponsonby Terrace, Ponsonby.
Visit twilighttalkers.toastmastersclubs.org for more information.
To arrange a visit, text 022 570 6396 or email thetwilighttalkers@gmail.com.
Here’s what our members are saying
“Toastmasters developed my leadership skills to the point where I now serve as the inaugural Auckland Division Director.” — Cedric Marie
“Been here forever — this club is the most casual, most humorous — and I’ve seen so much progress in so many. Keeps me coming back!” — Peter Anich
“Toastmasters has helped me foster a joy in public speaking. This has led to accepting new opportunities I thought were impossible.” — Rhiannon Hudson
“Joining Twilight Talkers has really helped me in my career with meetings and presentations.” — Lily Delany Hill
“Twilight Talkers have been such an engaging and supportive club for me. I really value it being the most casual club, considering that most interactions we have in life are in a casual setting.” — Kenneth Atmadja
If you’ve ever thought, “I wish I felt more confident speaking,” take this as your invitation. Come along as a guest — no commitment required. You might just surprise yourself.
Hope to see you on a Tuesday soon. Tracy Feickert, President, Twilight Talkers Ponsonby Toastmasters
