Launch of Ballito Toastmasters club offers pathway to public speaking success

The Citizen

16-05-2025

A passion for public speaking lit up Ballito Hills as Toastmasters launched its newest club with powerful speeches, personal stories and calls for youth empowerment last week.
The launch event highlighted the transformative power of Toastmasters International, with members sharing how the programme helped them overcome fear, build confidence and grow as leaders in both personal and professional spheres.
Among the speakers was Todd Atterbury, who joined Toastmasters to overcome his fear of public speaking.
'I was very shy, but after joining Toastmasters, not only did I gain confidence, I smashed the lights out on that day,' he said, reflecting on his wedding speech.
Each speech during the evening was followed by constructive feedback, highlighting strengths and offering ideas for improvement, true to the Toastmasters spirit of supportive growth.
When it was story time, everyone giggled as Gareth Arnold shared his tale about the time he and his brother decided to skydive naked to celebrate his brother's birthday. In the end, he managed to land safely, with everything still intact.
Charmaine Premlal, co-ordinator of The North Coast Courier Orphan Fund, spoke about the programme's potential to uplift youth.
'It challenges them, but also gives them positive feedback in a safe space. I've seen the impact personally, both my sons completed the seven-week course in Grade 10 and gained leadership and confidence,' she said.
Premlal expressed hope that local businesses would sponsor underprivileged youth to join through the Orphan Fund.
'It would be fantastic if corporates could come on board to support this skills development opportunity,' she added.
Toastmasters International is a non-profit organisation focused on building communication and leadership skills. With more than 270 000 members in more than 14 000 clubs across 150 countries, it remains a global leader in personal development.
Members take part in structured speaking exercises, impromptu sessions and peer feedback, all aimed at building confidence and helping individuals achieve their goals.
To join or for more information, contact Cindy Goniwe on 083 523 6409.
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