Key Takeaways from My TEDx Speaking Debut

TEDx events are truly special in every sense of the word. I recently had the opportunity to experience one for the first time and was honored to be one of the speakers. Held in Durban, the program was a testament to the city's vibrant culture.

Before 2025, most of my speaking engagements were online, thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic. Online events brought us together, almost as if we were in the same room. I have spoken at UN and World Economic Forum (WEF) conferences, all from the comfort of my home. There was a sense of ease in delivering a speech from my lounge.

For the first time in a long while, I stood before a diverse audience, looking into their eyes as I spoke. I had to read the room, gauge the mood, and deliver my speech accordingly. My TEDx speech will be available soon, but in the meantime, here are my key takeaways and reflections on delivering a speech or presentation:

1. Find the connector: No matter how important your topic is, it won't resonate if you don't find a connector. Whether discussing climate change or giving team feedback, the information must connect with something the audience cares about. Ask yourself:

   • What does your audience generally care about? (Consider current affairs, family, children, the future, the economy, government decisions, etc.)

   • How can you connect that to your presentation? (Think of current issues people discuss, topics dominating watercooler conversations, etc.)

   • What is the call to action? If you're not asking them to take action, why should they listen? Determine the aim of your presentation—whether to inspire, educate, encourage, or reprimand.

     
     

2. Let go of the comfort blanket: Babies have comfort blankets they hold onto all the time. As adults, we also have our "comfort blankets." A few days before the TEDx event, I asked the organiser, Thobani, if there would be a lectern. I wanted one to hide behind, as it would have been comforting in a room full of strangers. When told that speakers were preferred to deliver their speeches without one, I freaked out but had to let go of my "comfort blanket." Not all speaking engagements allow for these comforts, so we must adapt to our environment. The audience is the main character, so focus less on yourself and more on delivering something impactful.

   
   

3. You are the only one who knows your speech, so don't apologise: When you make a mistake in your speech, the knee-jerk reaction is to apologise. Don't. No one knows your presentation but you, so don't apologise for something your audience didn't even know was a mistake. Even if your team or manager is aware of the presentation, you don't need to apologise. Simply state what you intended after the mistake. Clarify your point without apologising for it.

   
   

There is always more to learn about delivering speeches, and that's the beauty of life - learning continuously. I hope these key takeaways and reflections help you prepare for your next presentation or speech.

Go forth and conquer.