In this inspiring episode of The Toastmasters Experience, Evelyn welcomes back Remona Moodley—one of Toastmasters’ Top 28 semi-finalists in the 2025 World Championship of Public Speaking. Even more remarkable: it’s Remona’s first year in Toastmasters.

Remona shares her thrilling and somewhat nerve-wracking journey of finding out she was selected. From obsessively refreshing the website to seeing her name on the list in the early hours of the morning, she describes a quiet moment of personal triumph. What followed was a flurry of congratulations, club celebrations—and the pressure to write a brand-new speech within a month.

With a background in pageants and performance, Remona has been preparing her whole life for this moment, even if not formally within Toastmasters. To support her, she’s assembled an all-star team. She describes how each one brings a unique perspective, contributing to her growth with precision and care.

Remona also speaks openly about the flood of feedback, balancing conflicting advice, and trusting her own instincts to remain authentic. She offers heartfelt advice to aspiring competitors: you don’t need to be ready to start—just start. The journey itself will transform you.

As Remona prepares to take the international stage in Philadelphia, she shares her excitement, her lucky charm, and her family’s joy—including her two young children who are just as thrilled for the American adventure.

We’ll all be cheering you on, Remona!