Click the image to watch the Speaker Factor Secrets Panel Discussion from the December PSASA Virtual Chapter meeting here.
There’s a first time for everything , so why not today ? This was my thought as I prepared to log on for the much -anticipated PSASA Virtual Chapter Year-End Celebration. The dress code? Black tie and slippers. I had never attended a virtual black tie event and to say my curiosity was richly rewarded is an understatement.
The mood was jovial as one by one we logged into the upper-class, glitzy evening with everyone looking their virtual best. We were not only ready to party like it’s 2024 but we were all set to laugh at our favourite moments, and bid farewell to an eventful year.
The vibe was sheer glamour with just a hint of homey comfort ( read: jeans and slippers). In a few seconds my screen was transformed into a virtual party room. MC Kavesan Pillay set the stage with masterful aplomb.
What’s a party without a little recognition? The PSASA Virtual Chapter took it a step further with their signature “fun awards,” adding humour and personality to the celebration. Here’s a taste of the accolades handed out with fun awards like;
- Wi-Fi Warrior Award: Celebrating the member who showed up through thick and thin—rain, shine, or weak signal
- Virtual Chapter Spirit Award: Given to the individual who exemplified the heart and soul of the chapter
- Energy Booster Award: Acknowledging the one who never failed to lift the mood
- TechTrouble Shooter Extraordinaire: For the behind-the-scenes hero of overcoming tech mishaps
- Zoom Master Award: For the Virtual Chapter member we all aspire to emulate on Zoom.
Each award brought laughter and rounds of virtual applause which was a reminder of the vibrant personalities that make up the PSASA Virtual Chapter.
A panel discussion among past Speaker Factor contestants, winners and organisers gave members valuable insight into this outstanding opportunity for PSASA members to make their mark.
Virtual Chapter President Ursula Botha rounded off the evening with a recap of the year’s milestones and highlights. Her words reminded us all of why we joined this community and left us motivated and encouraged for the adventures ahead in 2025.
The evening ended with a final toast with our glasses raised high , acknowledging that this was not only a party, but a more than just a party: it was evidence of the community we’d built, the goals we’d achieved, and the lessons we’d learned together.
As we logged off for the night, it was clear that we would return inspired to approach 2025 with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
Did you know the PSASA Virtual Chapter has a playlist on YouTube? This is where you can catch highlights from guest presentations at our Virtual Chapter meetings.
Get your professional speaker development fix any time at:
https://bit.ly/PSASAVirtualChapterYouTube
Written by:
Dr. Nondumiso Makhunga-Stevenson
Ubuntu Doctor Coaching