Toastmaster International, says it is grooming young Africans to address leadership deficits, that had denied the continent its pride of place amongst the global community
The non-profit organisation which is currently hosting about 23 African nations under its District 94, in Abuja, emphasised the importance of effective leadership in springing growth in the continent.
GodsWill Akpabio, Senate President, in his speech, expressed his commitment to support the organisation in every way possible, especially in the area of leadership development
Akpabio who was represented by his deputy, Jibrin Barau, said:” I am confident you are well on the part of leadership training.
“I shall as much as possible identify with this group of young and talented youth whenever the occasion demands it.”
Titi Ojo, the Chairman of District 94 Conference 2024 Abuja, in her opening remarks, said this year’s gathering, with the theme: ” Building Bridges with Words”, further reinforces Toastmasters’ commitments to growing the finest leadership breeds that will soon take over all sphere of activities across the continent
“Africa’s rising rests on the shoulders of leaders who will build bridges with words that inspire, heal, educate, encourage, empower, and foster transformational leadership on the continent.
“This conference has brought together over 500 local and international delegates from academia, industry, development, private and public sectors for four days of value-added activities.
“The rich speeches, learning sessions, speech contests, gala, award nights, and other side events have all been planned with you in mind.
“Enjoy every bit of this four-day journey with a deliberate resolve to benefit from every part and have fun while at it,” Ojo said.
She, however, applauded the participants and all the various stakeholders who made the event a success.
“in Toastmasters, leadership skills are honed through practice.
“Through this planning process, the conference planning team members have honed their leadership skills in diverse ways and indeed, we cannot remain the same.”
Nadine Mbikina, District 94 Director, in her remarks, described the 2024 conference as a ” historic moment for the district as it prepares to cross a crucial milestone.
“Through the leadership and dedication of our successive leaders, our strong and prosperous District 94 will give birth to two new districts.
“Each carries the legacy of our past and the promise of an even brighter future.
“We are deeply grateful to each of our members, whose invaluable contribution has made this achievement possible.
“Together, we will continue to build bridges with words, break down barriers, and build a future where dialogue and mutual understanding thrive,” she said.
Hosts 23 African nations in Abuja
She, therefore, urged its members not to relent in its commitment and dedication to excellence and leadership, saying it is a sure way to success.
Speaking with BusinessDay on the sidelines of the ongoing conference, Abayomi Aiyesimoju, a former District Director, also stressed the need for the development of strong leadership skills as part of the overall human capital development in the continent.
” At Toastmasters International, our main focus is developing members’ leadership and communication skills.
He recalled how Toastmasters International was founded by Ralph C. Smedley during his time working for the YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Association) in 1924, October.
” He had served as the Director of education at the YMCA in Bloomington, Illinois, in the United States, but he was passionate about creating confidence in members while speaking in public and leadership skills
” One of the outstanding contributions Toastmasters International have made is sharpening the leadership skills of its members
He said the organisation enables members to progress at the workplace, express themselves better, voluntarily take leadership positions, and become better people.
Also, speaking on the sidelines of the events, Inam Wilson, one of the founding members of District 94 and a former director, expressed delight at the organisation’s achievements.
Wilson, who said the gathering was for Toastmasters within the ECOWAS region, said it was an opportunity for members to meet and network.
The organization which was founded in 1924, is marking its 100 years of existence at the four days event in Abuja, expected to be used to strengthen awareness and membership drive across the 36 states, including the FCT
