Written by:
Alex Pryor
February’s Cape Chapter gathering was a reminder that while the world may be accelerating toward automation, the heart of professional speaking remains profoundly human.
The evening brought together members and guests for a conversation about identity, opportunity, and the one thing no algorithm can replicate: the power of showing up as yourself. With an energised room and plenty of curiosity in the air, the night explored how speakers can sharpen their craft while leaning fully into their personal voice and brand.
Our MC, Alex Pryor, set the tone for the evening, taking the opportunity for everyone to introduce themselves and give a one-line overview about what they speak about. It was a great reminder about all the talent in the room.
Then it was over to our speakers for the evening.
First up: Viv Vermaak, last year’s Speaker Factor competition winner, who gave members an inside look at PSASA’s premier speaking competition.
Viv shared what makes Speaker Factor such a powerful opportunity for associate members: it’s not just a competition, it’s a fast track to growth. By entering, speakers gain valuable stage time, refine their scripting and stagecraft, and get the rare chance to perform in front of peers who understand exactly what it takes to command a room.
But more valuable than the trophy is the experience itself: the confidence, the visibility, and the momentum that comes from stepping forward and saying yes to your own development.
As Viv put it, every previous winner had one thing in common: they showed up!
Then the evening turned to the future: Annie Olufuwa with Unmistakably You: Finding Your Essential ‘Icon Factor’ in the Age of AI.
With over two decades in the communication space as an award-winning writer, university lecturer, and corporate trainer, Annie brought deep expertise in storytelling and brand expression. As the founder of Story’d, she works with businesses and entrepreneurs to clarify their message and attract opportunities through authentic storytelling.
Her talk explored a powerful question for the modern professional: if AI can replicate technical skill, what truly sets you apart?
Annie’s answer was both simple and profound: your stories.
Through engaging examples and practical insight, she showed how the people who thrive today aren’t just good at what they do; they’re unmistakably themselves. By uncovering the essential “icon factor” at the heart of your personal brand, speakers can build connection, trust, and influence in ways no machine can imitate.
Two speakers. Two perspectives on the same truth:
Your growth as a speaker starts when you step forward and it accelerates when you fully embrace what makes you unique.
As the evening wrapped up, conversations carried on around the room, with members already discussing Speaker Factor entries, storytelling ideas, and the evolving role of authenticity in a tech-driven world.
If February’s meeting proved anything, it’s this: the future may be powered by technology, but it will always belong to the humans who dare to show up fully as themselves.
See you at the next gathering.
