Orediretse Molebaloa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orediretse-ore-m-2b34ab90/

The Africa Tech Authors & Speakers Forum is more than just an initiative – it’s a call to action. Technology is reshaping our world at an unprecedented pace, yet the voices driving these changes often come from the “Global North.” It’s time for Africa to rise, to lead, and to share its own story. Join us here: https://forms.gle/9i71dKWxAPdjRCfA8

The main points from our conversation:

Public Speaking is a Skill That Can Be Learned: Even if you’re not naturally confident, you can develop public speaking skills through practice, preparation, and exposure. Put in the effort, embrace mistakes, and take advantage of modern resources.

Start Small and Build Your Profile: Writing thought leadership articles, participating in workplace webinars, and engaging in LinkedIn discussions can help you gain visibility. Don’t be afraid to speak at free events initially to establish credibility.

Preparation is Key to Confidence: Understand your audience, tailor your message to their level of expertise, and be well-researched. The more prepared you are, the more confident and impactful your delivery will be.

Authenticity is Your Strength: Speak as yourself, not as someone you think you should be. Audiences connect with real, relatable speakers, so focus on sharing your unique insights rather than imitating well-known figures.

Diversity in Tech Speaking Needs to Grow: Africa needs more diverse voices—especially women and underrepresented professionals—in the tech speaking space. If you have valuable knowledge, don’t let self-doubt stop you from sharing it.

About our conversation:

Public speaking is an essential skill for professionals, particularly in the fast-evolving technology sector. Yet, many aspiring speakers hesitate to step forward, held back by self-doubt or a lack of experience. In a recent discussion between Johan Steyn and Orediretse Molebaloa as part of the Africa Tech Authors & Speakers Forum, they explored the challenges and opportunities in public speaking, sharing valuable insights for those looking to establish their voice in the tech industry.

Public Speaking is a Learnable Skill

Confidence on stage is often mistaken for an inborn trait. However, as Molebaloa emphasised, public speaking is a skill that can be developed through practice and exposure. While some individuals, like himself, may have an early advantage due to their upbringing—his parents were teachers, fostering his ability to articulate thoughts—anyone can learn to be a compelling speaker. The key lies in dedication, preparation, and the willingness to make mistakes.

Even seasoned professionals still experience nerves, especially when addressing senior executives or large audiences. But instead of viewing nerves as a setback, speakers should embrace them as a sign that they care about delivering value. By practising regularly, seeking feedback, and making use of the many online resources available today, aspiring speakers can refine their abilities and gain confidence.

Start Small, Build Your Profile

Breaking into the speaking circuit does not happen overnight. Both speakers stressed the importance of starting small—writing thought leadership articles, engaging in webinars, or even contributing within one’s workplace. Many companies host internal training sessions, panel discussions, or industry events where employees can gain speaking experience in a familiar environment.

Additionally, platforms like LinkedIn provide an excellent opportunity to share insights and build a professional reputation. Recording short video clips discussing industry trends or challenges is another effective way to gain visibility. By consistently putting themselves out there, speakers can attract invitations to larger conferences and events.

Preparation is Key

One of the most crucial lessons Molebaloa highlighted is that being selected to speak means the organisers already see you as an expert. However, expertise alone is not enough—preparation is vital. Understanding the audience, structuring a clear message, and staying informed about the latest trends ensure that speakers deliver real value.

Molebaloa shared how, for his first major speaking engagement, he carefully studied his audience to tailor his message effectively. He noted that when speakers address their audience in a relatable and engaging manner, they build credibility and make a lasting impact.

Diversity and Representation in Public Speaking

One of the biggest challenges in the African tech industry is the underrepresentation of diverse voices, particularly women and young professionals. While event organisers must do more to foster inclusivity, aspiring speakers also need to step forward and claim their space. Many talented professionals hesitate, not because they lack expertise, but because they doubt whether they belong on stage.

Molebaloa and Steyn agreed that initiatives like the Africa Tech Authors & Speakers Forum play a crucial role in empowering African professionals to speak up and share their knowledge. Encouraging more diverse representation at conferences and industry events is essential to shaping the future of technology in Africa.

Conclusion

Public speaking is not reserved for a select few—it is a skill that can be mastered with time, effort, and practice. Aspiring speakers should start small, embrace opportunities for growth, and remember that their voice matters. Whether through workplace presentations, LinkedIn videos, or industry events, every step forward builds confidence and credibility.

The African tech industry needs more diverse voices to share unique perspectives and drive meaningful conversations. By taking the leap and investing in their speaking journey, professionals can not only advance their own careers but also contribute to the broader growth of Africa’s technology landscape.