The Toastmasters Podcast #282: Inviting Opportunity: Meet 2025-2026 International President Aletta Rochat, DTM
Sep 1, 2025
Aletta Rochat, the 2025–2026 Toastmasters International President from Cape Town, is a certified coach and accomplished global speaker. She discusses her historic role as the first African president, emphasizing the need for representation in leadership. Aletta shares her inspiring journey with Toastmasters, revealing how it reignited her passion for public speaking. The conversation also uncovers the power of effective communication, active listening, and the importance of inviting new members to foster growth within the community.
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Representation From Africa Matters
- Aletta Rochat describes being the first International President from Africa and what that representation means to her.
- She emphasizes Africa's talent and the importance of showing possibility to overlooked regions.
Start Leadership By Volunteering
- Raise your hand and volunteer; that willingness starts leadership.
- Say yes, ask for guidance, and accept support to grow into the next role.
Bringing Africa To The Stage
- Aletta recounts choosing an outfit and headpiece to bring African presence to the World Championship stage.
- Southern Africa club members advised her and supplied beadwork to help represent the continent authentically.