12 Aug 2019

 Some youth in Maun have welcomed the launching of Toastmaster Club in the village.

Toastmaster is a non-profit international organisation that exists in over 140 countries. It provides its members with a platform to enhance and develop their public speaking capacities.

It is also a world leader in communication and leadership development, and it was introduced in Botswana by diplomats of the United States Embassy in 1994.

Since then the movement has been growing and so far there are nine Toastmaster Clubs, mostly in Gaborone with a new one launched in Maun.

In an interview, Ms Tebogo Nhlatho of Maun said they had long waited for the launch of Toastmaster and thanked the movement leadership for responding positively to their plea.

She revealed that she learnt about the movement in 2016 when she was doing fellowship and found it exciting and beneficial.

She said most people who joined the movement showed good characteristics and had confidence in public speaking. She said after the launch they would mobilise the youth, professionals, the business community and the village leadership to join the club and to support it.

Ms Nhlatho appreciated that some young people had shown interest in joining the club.

Toastmaster president, Mr Teko Mmolawa explained that they found it fit to launch the movement in Maun because many had shown interest to join.

He said some benefits to be derived from the club included confidence in public speaking, personal development and acquiring leadership skills. 

He, however, noted that the movement targeted people aged above 18 years.

The movement has touched many lives since its inception, he said, citing the likes of Ms Lillian Moremi whom he said was a graduate from the movement and currently coaching overseas.

Another beneficiary, Ms Samantha Mogwe, is a renowned artist who is currently doing well in her profession.

Mr Mmolawa called on the public to embrace the movement as it could benefit the country.

A club member from Gaborone, Ms Omaatla Leepo testified that the movement had done wonders for her life. 

She said she used to be a reserved and shy person when she grew up, but that since joining the club she has gained confidence in public speaking.

She said she could express herself fluently and communicate well with audience when presenting issues.

“I really learnt a lot from Toastmaster and I can recommend people to join, as it can open doors for them to realise their potential and capabilities,” she added.

Ms Leepo revealed that many people could not articulate issues, be it at work or at school, and urged them to join the club, saying team members were not judgemental but eager to help.

Another member of Toastmaster, Dr Marea Gaenamong said the club gave positive feedback and helped people improve their leadership and communication skills to enable them to speak confidently using body language. Ends