Female inmates at the Pocatello Women’s Correctional Center are ready to take an active stance on improving their lives. They’ve joined joined the Strong Women’s Legacy, the first ever Toastmasters program to be offered at the prison.

“(This) is huge because it gives us a less likely chance not to comeback when we have more support,” inmate, and club President, Alawna Smiddy said.

Through this non-profit educational club the women learn public speaking and leadership skills. Some 20 women have voluntarily signed up, and are joined by local Toastmasters officers who facilitate the meetings. Each week the women give prepared and impromptu speeches.