Westrand Toastmasters hold speech contest

Members of the West Rand Toastmasters held their annual speech contest at the Discovery Bowling Club on March 6. This exciting event was the first part of the competition, where one winner in different categories would be chosen to represent the club in contests against others in the area.

The contest had three categories: International Public Speaking, Evaluation Speech and Impromptu Speaking. Each category showed the wonderful preparation and talent of the speakers.

“What the judges will be looking for depends on the categories. For example, the impromptu chunk of it is how the speech is developed and its effectiveness. In evaluation, judges will be looking at how the speaker analyses the topic and the recommendation, and the international is mainly how the audience gelled with the speech,” said club vice president Retshidisitse Talafala.

In the impromptu speaking category, Brenda Joao won first place with her quick thinking and great delivery. Luyanda Mbeki took second place and Mathabo Skhosana came in third.

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While in the International Public Speaking category, James Ramakau impressed everyone and won first place. Prince Ndaba came in second place, showing strong speaking skills.

For the evaluation Speech category, Louise da Silva earned first place for her constructive feedback. Kgomotso Mophulane took second, and the club president, Modieng Ramekosi, received third place.

The contest was filled with inspiring speeches and a friendly atmosphere, showing how West Rand Toastmasters helps its members improve their speaking and leadership skills.

The winners represented West Rand in the next round of the competition that took place on Saturday, March 15 in Soweto.