THE DAVID NOTTAGE FOUNDATION
INDUSTRY READY- Giving People the Confidence to Change Their Lives
Registration number: CC64764
About David Nottage
A man who despite being terrified of public speaking, went on to enter an international speech contest with 20,000 entrants and won the coveted title of Toastmasters International World Champion of public speaking.
He's a sought-after keynote speaker, an MC and the founder of Torque Business, a company that, for many decades, has trained thousands of people just like you from businesses across the board to stand tall and proud while delivering a succinct and effective message.
David was actively involved with presentation skills for over 28 years and his ambition was to use his knowledge and skills to help people be more confident in their Business Presentations and Communication Skills.
An Australian born New Zealander, a Kiwi with an attitude—an attitude for success. David had come a long way from someone who was too scared to speak in front of a group of four people without a massive anxiety attack, to being a dynamic presenter who eclipsed over 20,000 Toastmasters to have won the ultimate pinnacle in public speaking, the World Championship for Toastmasters International, 1996.
Being a World Champion, David attributed his success to a combination of factors including his goals and aspirations. As a professional trainer and speaker, he believed the single most important factor in being successful in business is to generate and maintain an effective team who could represent their organisation in a dynamic and professional manner.
David passed away peacefully on 12th April 2022. He was an inspiration to all, with his humour, presence, and his enthusiasm was contagious to all those that knew him. He would always help anyone and often gave his time freely to support many people with public speaking.
He will always be remembered for his ability to truly connect with and empower people.
"...I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul."
-William Ernest Henley, INVICTUS
Rotary International
Being a part of Rotary International, David was dedicated to community service and global impact, actively participating in initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the world - especially in the world of public speaking.
Professional Speakers Association of New Zealand
David was deeply committed to excellence in public speaking and professional development. He engaged passionately with fellow speakers, shared his wealth of knowledge and refined his craft to deliver presentations that left a lasting impact. This is a testament to his lifelong commitment on the art of communication.
Toastmasters International
As a dedicated member of Toastmasters, he found a true passion for the art of communication and leadership. Every speech, every meeting, was an opportunity for him to connect with others and inspire those around him. His journey with Toastmasters wasn’t just about improving as a speaker—it was about making a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
SIGIE - ENZ
Through his work with SIGIE, David was passionate about helping immigrant engineers find connection, opportunity, and confidence as they built new lives in New Zealand. He believed that behind every engineer was a story of courage, sacrifice, and potential. For David, supporting SIGIE was never just about professional development or career guidance—it was about helping people feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to succeed in both life and work.
Origin Story: The Girl That Dared To Grow
The fascinating historical story of a small village, school and education in the 20th century
Every powerful voice has roots. Julie's journey began in a small coal mining village, where she attended Northfield Middle School.
Early Days
Julie was just your typical schoolgirl, quiet, shy and zero confidence. She had a good group of friends, got average grades, and enjoyed cross country running.
Higher Education
As her grades were average, it meant that she didn't make the grades for sixth form and left school at 16 years old. No job, no plan and no career.
Engineering
Julie signed up for a secretarial course and got a placement in the mining engineering company. She landed a job in the drawing office and asked if she could attend a technical drawing course. This was the start of her engineering journey.
Breaking Barriers
Fast forward in 12 years and as a woman in civil engineering. Julie navigated challenges with grace and grit. Soon learning the skills of confidence, connection and speaking up with clarity.
Giving Back
After a successful career in engineering and being the Auckland branch chair of Engineering New Zealand (only the 3rd female in 100 years to hold this position). Julie now gives back by speaking about Confidence, Connection and Clarity.
JRTalks Limited
Empower Your Confidence
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