Re-imagine freedom

Members of the Honeydew Toastmaster Club continue to meet virtually and April 11 was no different. Under the theme ‘Free to Be You’, the four speakers of the evening delivered prepared speeches on several of their unique experiences.

The first speaker, Thinus Louw shared some funny quips about his career as a lawyer and the negative stereotypes often attached to the profession. “There are many connotations that come with being a lawyer; dishonest, immoral and sly are some of the words you will hear,” he listed.

“Attorneys need to have the appropriate skills set to look at the facts from all angles. You need to act zealously for your clients and protect them. If I am getting the best for my clients, then I am okay with the negative stereotypes.”

Tebogo Mailula’s speech titled ‘Friends for Life’ detailed the connections we make with our friends. “There are people who walk through life with you and you share memories with,” she began.

“Today I honour my best friend who has been in my life through thick and thin.” Tebogo said friendship is a meeting of souls with a mutual bond. “When life gives you a curve ball, you need your friends. I would like to create a new award for my best friend and partner in crime. She is a breath of fresh air.”

During table topics, Vice-President of Public Relations, Maralize Mulder challenged with topics around freedom, in line with the evening’s theme.

“This is the fun part of the evening. For table topics, speakers are not prepared and everything is impromptu. You need to speak for at least one to two minutes.”

Maralize said table topics help prepare speakers for real-life situations and encourages them to overcome the fear of speaking in public.