It was a historic moment when a small group of like-minded individuals met a Siki’s Coffee on Saturday to launch the Khayelitsha branch of Toastmasters International.
Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organisation that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through worldwide network of clubs.
Khayelitsha Toastmasters initiators are Nwabisa Maseti-Nzuzo, Sazi Mnyazi and Vuyokazi Ntsangani who have gained experience from their association with various city-based clubs.
Nwabisa, who started at the Breakfast Club in Newlands three years ago, said she felt it was necessary that a township as big as Khayelitsha should have it’s own toastmasters branch.
“We learn a lot of life skills and you actually gain confidence in doing things on your own. I think a lot of people will benefit from this organisation,” she said.
Vuyokazi Ntsangani, also a member of Breakfast Club, said it was her dream to see township folks benefit from the toastmasters programmes.
“Most people I meet have the desire to improve their lives and I often tell them that Toastmasters International has a lot of workplace practical skills,” said Vuyokazi.
Sazi Mnyazi who is associated with City Bowl Toastmasters said the organisation has helped him improve vastly and perform well at work.
“In the company I work we have to constantly present projects and the skills I gain from Toastmasters come in handy. I am now comfortable in doing my job,” he said.
On Saturday morning a group of about 30 people listen intently as the trio explained the workings of the Toastmasters International.
Johannesburg-based life coach and influencer Lungile Hlatshwayo addressed the gathering via Zoom meeting.
Lungile said the Toastmasters presented her with platforms to lead, communicate and articulate important messages in relevant spaces.
She encouraged those who wished to join to do so saying they will not regret their decision.
“Your lives will be greatly transformed if you talk the teaching you receive to heart,” she said.
A former nurse from Lower Crossroads, Vuyiswa Dyasi, said she came to the launch because she wants to polish her presenting skills.
“I want to present talks on health-related matters but stage fright holds me back and I think joining Khayelitsha Toastmasters will help me,” said Vuyiswa.
Nandipha Sintwa, a passionate youth development advocate, said she hopes that she will share skills obtained in this movement with the young children she works with daily.
Selby Magagula who came all the way from Durbanville said he motivated to finally meet toastmasters in flesh.
“My encounters with toastmasters has been online and I am so excited to see that they are will reach out to thousands of our people,” he said.
If you would like to join Khayelitsha Toastmasters call these numbers: 073 851 4611, 063 0222 329 and 072 9763528.
