Amsterdam resident wins Toastmasters' 2025 World Championship of Public Speaking

Sabyasachi Sengupta wins the world's largest speech contest

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Toastmasters International proudly announces that Sabyasachi Sengupta of Amsterdam, Netherlands, has won the 2025 World Championship of Public Speaking^®, held Saturday, Aug. 23, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Pa. This annual competition showcases the talent and dedication of speakers from around the globe and highlights Toastmasters' commitment to fostering communication and leadership skills. 

Sengupta, a resident of Amsterdam, captivated the audience with his speech, "Just Nod", which reflected on his childhood dream of becoming an actor, a passion that took a detour into the world of finance. He shared how a pivotal presentation reignited his love for performing, reminding him that he could be a performer even in the boardroom. His message—that one doesn't need a stage to live one's dream—resonated deeply with judges and attendees.

 A member of Toastmasters for 14 years, Sengupta credits the organization with helping him grow both personally and professionally. "Toastmasters is a safe place where you can try so many things—not just with public speaking, but leadership, organizing an event, trying something new," he said. "I do not need a movie set to live my dream; I can be a performer with just a clicker and a projector."

Each year, thousands of Toastmasters from more than 100 countries compete in the International Speech Contest, culminating in the World Championship of Public Speaking. The event is considered the world's largest and most prestigious speech contest for amateur speakers, with past winners going on to become acclaimed authors, coaches, and keynote speakers. Winning the title is seen as a milestone achievement that brings international recognition and opportunities to inspire audiences worldwide.

Sengupta joins a distinguished group of past winners who serve as an inspiration to others globally. A roster of previous champions is available here. To discover additional details regarding this honor and to view the top three speeches from the current year, visit toastmasters.org. 

Second place went to Mas Mahathir Bin Mohamad of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with his speech "…Raindrops", and third place to Allen Ang Boon Kiat of Seria, Brunei, with "Keep Dreaming." 

About the World Championship of Public Speaking^® 

The World Championship of Public Speaking^® starts as the International Speech Contest in Toastmasters clubs throughout the world. From there, participants advance to Area, Division, District, and quarterfinal competitions. Two winners from each quarterfinal move on to the semifinals. At the semifinals, an expert panel of experienced Toastmasters determines the eight finalists. The time allowed for each speech is between five and seven minutes.

Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that builds confidence and teaches public speaking skills through a worldwide network of clubs that meet online and in person. In a supportive community or corporate environment, members prepare and deliver speeches, respond to impromptu questions, and give and receive constructive feedback. It is through this regular practice that members are empowered to meet personal and professional communication goals. Founded in 1924, the organization is headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, with over 265,000 members in more than 13,800 clubs in nearly 150 countries. For information about local Toastmasters clubs, please visit toastmasters.org.

SOURCE Toastmasters International