The road to confidence: RCT’s annual networking night
Rotman Commerce Toastmasters (RCT) is more than just a public speaking club—it’s a space where students learn to find their voice, challenge their fears, and grow into confident communicators. Through weekly meetings and unique events, RCT provides Rotman Commerce students with the tools and support needed to build confidence and connect.
Re-imagining networking
Introduced in February 2024, RCT’s annual networking night was created with a deeper purpose in mind. Arianna Tang (BCom ‘26), Vice President Internal of RCT recounts, “The event was born from a desire to foster genuine connections after hearing from students who found traditional networking to be overly transactional. We wanted to create a space where RC students and industry representatives could connect on a universal theme: public speaking.”
Authentic conversations
Structured as a roundtable networking format, students rotated through tables and engaged with representatives from various industries. The guiding questions steered the conversations, allowing everyone to share their own experiences and vulnerabilities when it comes to public speaking.
Cristina Koga (BCom ‘25), President of RCT, loved seeing how students connected with the representatives on a deeper level. “Seeing that we are connecting to each other beyond our roles, and are looking into each other’s personalities and personal stories is something that is unique to our event, and something I cherish very deeply.”
A shared experience
As the night drew to a close, the representatives took the stage to answer public speaking-themed questions. RCT provided students with the opportunity to share their own personal stories, creating an enriching and impactful experience for both the speakers and attendees. “It was an opportunity to be brave, to reveal a piece of oneself, and to be seen and supported by the room,” says Arianna.
From fear to freedom: Arianna’s journey
Like many, Arianna wasn’t always confident with public speaking. In fact, she describes it as her greatest fear growing up. In her first year at RCT, she gave a speech at the meeting that didn’t go as planned, yet she persevered. “What made the difference was the support and encouragement from my peers, all striving to grow in the same way. That moment sparked something in me—I made a promise to fully commit to improving my public speaking. And from that point on, the progress was immediate.”
She explains how RCT pushed her to step outside her comfort zone, helping her transform nerves into excitement. Through consistent practice, she learned how to command a stage—using her voice, body language, and presence to make lasting impressions.
Arianna Tang, BCom ‘26“More than that, RCT taught me that growth comes from pursuing the commitments we set for ourselves—and that there is no such thing as ‘impossible’.”
Building confidence beyond the stage
Cristina echoes how RCT played a key role in building her confidence. “I think a lot would have been different about me had I not joined the club at the beginning of my university career,” she says. “While the initial fear and sweaty palms haven’t faded, I am more composed, and know that whether or not I deliver an incredible speech—or if I totally mess it up—it is still part of my journey of improving myself.”
That growth hasn’t just stayed within club meetings. RCT gave her the confidence to embrace new challenges throughout her university journey, with each speech paving the way for more self-assurance in everyday life.
“No matter how I feel after giving a speech, I know that my members will always make me feel safe and comfortable. We welcome anyone with open arms at all times of the year and are excited to learn from one another.”
Cristina Koga, BCom ‘25
RCT prides itself on creating a welcoming and encouraging environment where members feel supported and empowered. The club isn’t just about speeches—it’s about building a community where students feel seen, heard, and uplifted. “Most importantly,” Cristina adds, “no matter how tired or stressed I may be going into an RCT meeting, I always come out of it in the best mood, laughing, smiling, and excited for the following week.”
Looking ahead
Keep an eye out for their latest events @rctoastmasters on Instagram, and consider joining their weekly meetings when the next academic year begins. As Arianna puts it, “if you choose to join RCT, you won’t leave as the same person who first walked through the door.”
By Anika Kulathu (BCom ’27) | April 15, 2025
