Willie Chinyamurindi is a Charter Member of the new University of Port Elizabeth (UPE) Toastmasters club, and is recognised for his outstanding contribution to both this club and that of Area E 1 (Port Elizabeth). Willie was placed second in 2002 and 2003 in the annual UPE public speaking contest, and regularly conducts successful Master of Ceremony functions.

Willie makes it his business to ensure Toastmasters is as visible as possible through as many channels he has access to, encouraging new membership whilst maintaining the keen interest and enthusiasm of existing members. He is a full time Human Resources student who hails from Zimbabwe where, while attending Churchill High School in Harare, he learned the skill and art of public speaking. On his arrival at UPE he was persuaded to join UPE Toastmasters, which he considers “worth every dime invested as I learnt so much from all the speakers and exciting roles to play within the club”. 

During his term of office as Vice President of Education at UPE Toastmasters he planned, produced and distributed quality programmes. He continues to assist all members, as well as training the newly elected Executive Committee members.

Willies “works” for the UPE newspaper as the Arts and Culture Editor, where he promotes Toastmasters at every opportunity. Indeed, its first edition enjoyed a full review of the organisation and the benefits of membership. 

He also recently began producing his own paper, entitled “Cultura Indaba”, which includes a standard feature, “Societies on Campus”, which encourages guests to visit the club under the feature. “Campus Toastmasters,” the club newsletter, is also his initiative, which he considers a privilege and an honour to produce and distribute.

While home on vacation in Harare he has assisted with competitions and delivered project speeches, attaining his CC Award after being a member for only eight months.

Having been a sponsor for this club I have personally seen this young man, and young Toastmaster, in action on many of my club and executive meeting visits, and firmly believe that Willie Chinyamurindi  CTM is worthy of consideration as the 2003 Young Toastmaster of the Year.

Yvonne Anderson