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Four powerhouse Jamaican educators 'jamminated' the 2025 Toastmasters Caribbean Speech Competitions, sweeping every major title in a dazzling display of talent that left nearly 20 other countries trailing behind.

The high-stakes showdown, held in Barbados from May 13 to 18, saw Jamaica's best communicators rise to the top of Toastmasters District 81 - covering the entire Caribbean - with a masterclass in confidence, charisma, and captivating storytelling.

"I feel overwhelmed and humbled. It was an amazing experience," said Tamara Shaw-McFarlane, a teacher at St Faith's Primary School and winner of the International Speech Contest (Online).

Toastmasters International, founded in 1924, is a global non-profit that transforms everyday people into persuasive speakers and inspiring leaders. And this year, Jamaica's women were unstoppable.

"When people heard that all four of us were educators, they were surprised. But it just shows that we believe in growth for ourselves, and we practice what we preach in the classroom," Shaw-McFarlane added.

Competitors battled their way up from club level to area, division, and finally district finals - where the Jamaicans turned the stage into their classroom and schooled the region.

Anniona Jones, principal of Haile Selassie High School and member of the Ocho Rios Titans Toastmasters Club, walked away with not one, but two major titles: Evaluation Speech Contest Champion and Table Topics (Impromptu Speaking) Champion.

"This win should be shouted across the island," declared Jones. "It proves that communication is the foundation of leadership. Whether you're on the campaign trail, in a staff meeting, or teaching a lesson, good communication runs the place."

Jones, who joined Toastmasters to sharpen her leadership and critical thinking, credits the programme for transforming her approach to education.

"The ability to listen carefully, evaluate thoughtfully and respond clearly is critical in education and beyond," she said.

Another showstopper was Dr Euphemia Robinson, education officer for Region 6 and member of the Meadowvale Toastmasters Club, who was crowned winner of the International Speech Contest (In-person). Her powerful speech on intimate partner violence struck a chord with judges and the audience alike.

"The experience was exhilarating, nerve-wracking and empowering," Robinson said. "The stage gave me permission to occupy space and deliver a message that matters - intimate partner violence. It affects one in every three women worldwide. In Jamaica alone, over 8,500 abuse reports were filed just this year. We need to stop being silent."

Robinson is also the author of Most Improved Student: In the Classroom of Life, a motivational book chronicling a young Jamaican girl's triumph over poverty and illiteracy with the support of a dedicated teacher.

"Every child carries greatness," Robinson said. "But it takes vision and love from a good teacher to unlock it. That's what Toastmasters allows us to do, to empower others through speech, story and strength."

For Shaw-McFarlane, who has been a Toastmaster for 13 years, the secret weapon is her dynamic classroom style.

"I talk with my hand, my eye, my whole body," she said. "Being around children trains you to get creative. I just took that same energy and authenticity and brought it to the virtual stage."

Robinson agreed that returning to live performance after the COVID-19 hiatus made the win even more meaningful. "Being back on stage was electric," she said. "Toastmasters taught me how to look good online, but now I'm back in real life with my message, and I'm ready for the world."

If selected, Robinson will represent Jamaica at the Toastmasters International Speech Semifinals, with a shot at global glory.

All three women credited Toastmasters with boosting the communication and leadership skills critical for today's classrooms--and tomorrow's leaders.

"Leadership begins with voice," said Jones. "If we want safer schools, better learning outcomes, and stronger citizens, we need to start teaching students how to express themselves clearly, confidently, and with purpose."

"I think every school should have a Toastmasters club like 4H," Jones added. "It will build confidence in young people and develop their leadership skills."