Toastmasters District 74

LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINE FOR TOASTMASTERS

Contact:

Paul Jensen

District Public Relations Officer

Cell: 083 265 2180

Email:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Fax: 086 531 1017

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cape Town / 15^th October 2011 - Not only is Dr Lizo Bango a dedicated medical doctor but an eloquent, entertaining and champion speaker. He recently won the Toastmaster’s District 74 Humorous Speech contest which was held at Quest Conference Centre in Vanderbijlpark. District 74 includes contestants from all provinces in South Africa as well as the 8 other neighbouring Southern African countries.

For the first time since 1983 has the Humorous Speech Trophy been won by a Capetonian. The closest was in 1990 when it was won by Chris Bothma from Stellenbosch. When asked how he felt about the victory, Dr Bango modestly replied “Well, 2 years ago I delivered one of my best humorous speeches on a HIV/AIDS Survival Kit and I, marginally, came second. I humbly realised the high standard of the contest and had to go back and improve my speech delivery.” Dr Bango’s winning yet educational and highly entertaining speech was on the dangers of cigarette-smoking, both to men and women.

Next year, this annual Humorous Speech will be hosted by Toastmasters Western Cape attracting exciting humorous speakers from all over Southern Africa. Dr Bango, first, had to compete against fellow Club mates, progressed towards a Provincial contest and, finally, represented Western Cape Clubs at the Southern African Championships in Vanderbijlpark. Each speaker goes through a rigorous yet challenging assessment process by highly experienced judges at each level of the contest.

When asked if he planned to defend his title next year, here in Cape Town, his response was “Contests really sharpen one’s edge as a speaker. Besides the pressure of competing, the benefit is immeasurable for someone like me who regularly speaks at events to inspire others to pursue healthier lifestyles. I would challenge anyone who wants to improve their speaking and leadership skills to join any Toastmasters Club nearby.” With more than 13 000 Clubs members in over 116 countries – Toastmasters helps ordinary people improve their communication and leadership skills.

You can locate Toastmasters Clubs in Southern Africa at www.toastmasters74.org/about/find-a-club or alternatively, call 0861 ISPEAK (0861 477325 - South Africa only) or email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it