Zenzele Ndlovu

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zenzele-ndlovu/

Websites:

Fintech Summit Africa: https://fintechsummit.co.za/

AI Conference: https://mlafrica.com/ai-conference/

AI n Healthcare Conference: https://mlafrica.com/ai-in-healthcare-conference/

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:

Continuous Learning & Preparation – Aspiring speakers should study experienced speakers, attend conferences, listen to speaking-related podcasts, and read books to refine their skills.

Develop a Strong Topic & Profile – A compelling topic and abstract are crucial. Even if one lacks speaking experience, having a well-structured and relevant topic can increase chances of being selected.

Create & Share Content – Recording presentations, sharing thoughts on LinkedIn, or starting a YouTube channel can help build credibility and showcase expertise to conference organisers.

Networking & Collaboration – Engaging with event organisers, industry leaders, and other speakers can open doors. Conferences thrive on connections, so reaching out and making oneself known is vital.

Diversity & Representation Matter – There is a need for more African and female speakers in tech conferences. Aspiring speakers should seize opportunities to bring diverse perspectives to discussions and contribute to a more inclusive industry.

About our conversation:

In a rapidly evolving world where technology is reshaping industries and societies, the voices driving these transformations often emerge from the "Global North." However, Africa has a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and innovation that needs to be heard. The Africa Tech Authors & Speakers Forum is dedicated to empowering African professionals to share their insights through impactful articles and compelling public speaking engagements.

Recently, Johan Steyn engaged in an enlightening conversation with Zenzele Ndlovu, a seasoned media professional and tech event organiser, to discuss the challenges and opportunities for aspiring speakers in Africa. Their discussion provided valuable insights into what it takes to excel as a public speaker and thought leader in the technology space.

The Journey to Becoming a Speaker

One of the key takeaways from the conversation was the importance of continuous learning. Many aspiring speakers may feel daunted by the idea of addressing large audiences, but preparation and self-education can build confidence. Engaging with experienced speakers, attending conferences, and listening to public speaking podcasts can all help in mastering the art of communication.

Zenzele highlighted that new speakers should study how seasoned professionals present themselves, their body language, and their content delivery. Public speaking is not just about knowledge but also about effectively engaging an audience.

Building a Strong Profile and Topic

For those looking to break into the speaking circuit, having a compelling topic is crucial. Conference organisers are always on the lookout for speakers who can offer fresh perspectives on emerging trends. Zenzele emphasised that even if someone lacks extensive speaking experience, a well-researched and thought-provoking abstract can significantly improve their chances of being selected.

Additionally, a professional online presence is vital. Many aspiring speakers do not have a profile picture, a detailed LinkedIn profile, or a collection of past presentations. Creating and sharing content through blogs, LinkedIn posts, and even short video presentations can enhance credibility and visibility.

The Power of Networking and Collaboration

Public speaking is not just about securing a platform; it is also about building relationships. Johan and Zenzele discussed how engaging with conference organisers and other industry leaders can create opportunities for new speakers. Many organisers, including Zenzele’s team, actively look for fresh voices to add value to their events.

Aspiring speakers should not hesitate to reach out, submit their ideas, and ask for opportunities to participate, even if it is in the form of a panel discussion or a short fireside chat.

Addressing Gender and Diversity in Speaking Circuits

A critical issue raised in the conversation was the underrepresentation of African women in technology conferences. While there are many brilliant female professionals in the industry, conference organisers often struggle to get them to participate. Cultural and structural barriers contribute to this challenge, but concerted efforts are being made to encourage greater female representation.

Zenzele’s team, for example, ensures that every panel they organise includes female speakers, striving for a more inclusive and diverse speaker line-up. The message is clear: women have a vital role to play in shaping the future of technology, and their voices need to be amplified.

Final Thoughts: Seizing Opportunities

For aspiring speakers, the key takeaway is simple: put yourself out there. The first speaking engagement is often the hardest to secure, but once achieved, it paves the way for further opportunities. By continuously learning, building a strong profile, networking, and advocating for diversity, Africa’s technology professionals can take their rightful place on the global stage.

The future of African technology leadership depends on its ability to tell its own story. The time to start is now.