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Setting the Stage: The Gateway to All Things Africa
The Voice of Africa (TVOA) is more than a media platform—it is the definitive gateway to all things Africa. As the bridge connecting Africa to the world in media, trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange, TVOA stands at the forefront of shaping the continent’s global narrative. At the Yale Africa Innovation Symposium (YAIS), the Ambassador of Africa Masterclass took center stage, delivering a transformational session on public speaking that left attendees inspired and empowered.
A Dynamic Start: Kadmiel Van Der Puije Sets the Tone
The session kicked off with a powerful introduction from Kadmiel Van Der Puije, CEO of TVOA, who captivated the audience with an overview of THE VOICE OF AFRICA – THE GATEWAY TO ALL THINGS AFRICA and its subsidiaries. He highlighted the platform’s mission to elevate Africa’s voices on a global stage, underscoring the critical role of effective communication in leadership, business, and advocacy.
Engaging Panel Discussion: The Art of Public Speaking
Following Kadmiel’s opening remarks, an esteemed panel of speakers—each a powerhouse in their respective fields—delved into key aspects of public speaking through an engaging Q&A session:
- Kemuel Van Der Puije (Theater Actor)
Question: “How can tone and voice modulation transform a speech?”
Insight: Kemuel shared expert techniques on voice projection, the strategic use of pauses, and the power of emotive delivery to captivate an audience. - Victoria (Founder of NVE Agency)
Question: “What role does posture and body language play in commanding the room?”
Insight: Victoria emphasized the importance of standing confidently, using purposeful gestures, and maintaining eye contact to establish presence and credibility. - Muka Chisaka (Miss Zambia International & Consultant)
Question: “How do you mentally prepare to overcome stage fright?”
Insight: Muka offered practical strategies such as visualization techniques, controlled breathing exercises, and the power of storytelling to ease nerves before stepping on stage. - Tony Attipoe (Software Engineer at Google)
Question: “How can professionals present complex information in a simple, engaging way?”
Insight: Tony provided insights into structuring presentations effectively, using relatable analogies, and breaking down technical jargon to connect with diverse audiences.
Interactive Learning: Kahoot Challenge & Public Speaking Showdown
To reinforce the key takeaways from the panel, attendees engaged in an exhilarating Kahoot game, testing their knowledge on public speaking strategies. The competition was fierce, and the top three winners walked away with exciting cash prizes, further fueling their enthusiasm for mastering the art of communication.
The energy peaked during the final segment—the Public Speaking Challenge, where three brave students took the stage to deliver impromptu one-minute speeches on randomly assigned topics. Their creativity, confidence, and delivery were put to the test, with the standout performer winning a grand cash prize and earning roaring applause from the audience.
Capturing the Moment: TVOA Media in Action
The TVOA Media team, represented by Favour Olobor, Sandy Amaoko, and Samuel Onwubiko, played a crucial role in documenting this remarkable event. Through exclusive interviews with attendees and speakers, they captured the essence of the YAIS experience, ensuring that the insights and inspiration from the masterclass reached a global audience.
A Defining Moment for African Voices
The Voice of Africa’s Ambassador of Africa Masterclass at YAIS was more than just a session—it was a movement. It reinforced the power of public speaking as a tool for leadership, influence, and change across the African continent. By equipping the next generation of leaders with the skills to communicate effectively, TVOA continues to solidify its position as the gateway to all things Africa, shaping narratives and empowering voices that will define Africa’s future on the world stage.
