The Magic of Public Speaking
HAVE you ever been deeply embarrassed in front of the whole school? Well, I have, several times. When I was in primary, my mum always told me about the importance of hard work, honesty and worshipping the Lord, but never communication.
It was only when I was chosen to be a prefect in grade 7 when I realised the importance of communication skills, especially public speaking skills.
Every assembly, as prefects, we would take turns to address the whole school. Whenever it was my turn it was not easy. I would hate going to that assembly more than going to a dentist! I was so shy and full of stage fright. I could easily practice my speech at home but the moment I stood in front of the whole school I would turn into a block of ice with no confidence.
I would stammer, shiver and lose face in the process. It was a deeply embarrassing experience for a whole year.
Little did I know that right here in Harare there is a company called Business Times that trains school children public speaking skills. During Christmas holidays, my mum took me to their classes at Borrowdale scout hall.
The experience was truly magical. The trainer, Mr Felix Zinhara is amazing, a Toastmaster of the highest order. He took us through 10 hours of intensive training, 1 hour per day. The course is a learn-by-doing process where you learn 10 public speaking skills in a relaxed environment full of fun. I will never forget that experience.
At the end of that course I was a completely different person. Even my friends keep asking what happened. My confidence has skyrocketed. I can now easily craft and deliver a flawless speech anytime, with energy and enthusiasm.
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