Empowered by finding her voice, Zivai Matondo now empower other women to find theirs

THERE is a widely held misconception that introverts are not naturally inclined to be effective leaders. This notion suggests that leadership necessitates personal characteristics typically associated with extroversion, such as being outspoken, sociable, and assertive. However, this belief overlooks the unique strengths and qualities that introverts possess, which can enable them to defy the odds and excel in leadership roles. Introverts often exhibit exceptional listening skills, thoughtfulness, introspection, and the ability to connect deeply with others.

The Entrepreneurial Magazine conducted an exclusive interview with Zivai Matondo, a natural introvert who, by stepping out of their comfort zone, developed traits that fostered a leadership style characterized by focus, empathy, and inclusivity. This style enables introverted individuals to contribute their unique perspectives and strengths effectively. Here are excerpts from the interview:

In brief, could you take us through your backstory and just how you got here?

I grew up an introvert and was happier working behind the scenes. I started off my work life as a banker but quickly got bored with the monotonous work. I then moved into sales by accident and found myself in accounting within two years. I always enjoyed figures. I left formal employment in 2005 and pursued my interest in my home-based business which had started paying me more than my formal employment. I found myself building and collaborating with teams and I would train, motivate and inspire others.  In 2014 I realized I could no longer wing it anymore and needed to build my confidence. When a friend invited me to become a member of Toastmasters International, I did not hesitate to become a member and thought I would be there for just a year building my confidence and once done I would move on. Ten years down the line I am still a very active member and am now paying it forward.

Throughout your journey, who are your biggest inspirations?

My greatest inspiration has been my father W.G.N. Moyo, an educationist of note. He has had a profound influence on my life. He has played a pivotal role in shaping my values, beliefs, and aspirations through his guidance, support, and example. From teaching me valuable life lessons to offering unwavering encouragement, he has instilled qualities of resilience, determination, and compassion in me. As a role model whose actions and words leave lasting impressions, shaping the way I perceive the world and approach challenges. His dedication, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to my well-being has served as a source of inspiration, motivating me to strive for excellence and pursue my dreams. Through his words of wisdom, his steadfast presence during both joyous and challenging times, my father’s influence extends far beyond the boundaries of familial ties.

Tell us about your enterprise, when it was established and what inspired its establishment?

Toastmasters International is the organization I am currently serving in the capacity of Program Quality Director (Learning & Development Director). My term started on 1 July 2023 and ends on 30 June 2024. Prior to this role I served as Club Growth Director (Marketing Director) from 1 July 2022 till 30 June 2023. The role covers the nine countries in Southern Africa and includes Angola, Madagascar & Mauritius.

Toastmasters International was founded in October 1924 in U.S.A. by Ralph C. Smedley after he saw the need for public speaking. On October 22, 1924, a meeting of approximately two dozen men marked the birth of today’s Toastmasters. Ralph and the older men would deliver short speeches and the younger men would evaluate the speeches. Only in 1973 was membership opened to women.

The services you offer or the products that are provided by your company or organisation.

Toastmasters International empowers individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders through clubs whose mission is to provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth.

I found my voice through Toastmasters, and I formalized my own coaching and consulting business in 2020, ZivaiM Coaching & Consulting (Pvt.) Limited. This is an organization where we engage, educate, and enable individuals to excel in their spheres of influence. We also support small & medium enterprises with developing their marketing strategies as well as facilitating tailormade training programs for their staff members.

How has your goal-setting approach as a personal development coach influenced your success as the Club Growth Director of Toastmasters International?

I was awarded the District Club Growth Award 2022 – 2023 by Toastmasters International for my service as Club Growth Director. I was able to use my goal achieving skills to be able to bring my own success. Instead of using the SMART goal setting principle when setting my goals in my role as Club Growth Director I added the “E” and “R” and set S.M.A.R.T.E.R. goals. This is where I would evaluate and reward for small wins throughout my term of office. When setting the goals, I had to first review past results of my predecessors and analyze them. My goal for my portfolio needed to align with the goal we wanted to achieve as a district and buying into the vision of our leader was key. We got to work and supported one another on the journey. It was not an easy journey, but it was worth it because personally I grew as a leader, and I was able to support hundreds of others to do the same and we achieved our goals and exceeded expectations.

As the Program Quality Director and a personal development coach, why is it important for women to be part of this global organization and how does it benefit them personally and professionally?

Jim Rohn says, “Income seldom exceeds your personal development.”  When I embarked on my personal development journey, I realized how that directly impacted my income. It is important that women develop their communication and leadership skills as these are essential skills that they need be it in the workplace, in business, in their community and in their family.

Toastmasters provides a safe learning environment and so one can get to learn, practice & develop skills that one requires in the real world. This could be in the work environment, in your family or in your community. The organization at its inception in 1924 was only for men and only in 1973 was the first woman admitted as a member. Communication and leadership skills are essential skills that we all need, and Toastmasters helps you to hone in those skills. Toastmasters International offers numerous benefits for individuals looking to improve their communication, leadership, and public speaking skills. Some of the key benefits include:

Structured Learning: Toastmasters provides a structured learning environment where members can enhance their speaking and leadership abilities through a series of manuals, workshops, and educational resources.

Practice and Feedback: Members have ample opportunities to practice speaking in front of a supportive audience and receive constructive feedback from fellow members. This feedback loop helps individuals identify areas for improvement and refine their speaking techniques.

Confidence Building: Regularly speaking in front of a group helps build confidence and reduces the fear of public speaking, a skill that is valuable in various personal and professional situations.

Networking Opportunities: Toastmasters meetings offer a supportive environment for networking and building relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds and professions.

Leadership Development: Toastmasters provides opportunities for members to develop leadership skills by taking on roles within the club, such as serving as an officer, organizing events, or mentoring newer members.

Personal Growth: Participation in Toastmasters fosters personal growth by encouraging individuals to step out of their comfort zones, set goals, and work towards continuous improvement in their communication and leadership abilities.

Structured Pathways Program: Toastmasters International has introduced a Pathways learning experience, which offers customizable educational paths based on members’ goals and interests. This program allows members to focus on specific skills they want to develop, such as public speaking, interpersonal communication, management, and more.

Recognition and Awards: Toastmasters recognizes members’ achievements through various awards and milestones, motivating individuals to set and achieve their goals within the organization.

If any, kindly share your milestones.

• District Club Growth Award Toastmasters International 2022-2023
• Freedom Award American Association of Female Entrepreneurs 2020
• Distinguished Toastmaster Toastmasters International USA 2018 & 2020
• Southern Africa Toastmaster of the Year 2018

This question relates to something that women often must deal with that may impact their ability to move up in an organisation or navigate their business activities. How have you balanced work and family?

I have a very supportive family that gets involved indirectly and sometimes directly in what I do. I have learnt not to just manage time but to manage life. I know how much time I can put into the various activities I am involved in. I know what matters most to my family and I and I prioritize. I have had to set boundaries to differentiate between work and family time, though that is easier said than done especially when some of the work I do is done with people in a different time zone from mine. Any opportunity to rope in my family into my work activities I do so, and we get to spend time together doing what I enjoy.  We always strive for quality time and not necessarily quantity. When there are goals to be met and time is limited, I make sure I communicate effectively well in advance such that they are aware, and they plan their own activities during that period of time. They know when it is celebration time we celebrate together, and my win is their win too. Responsibilities where possible are shared at home. I make sure that I fit in time for me in my daily routine for relaxation and personal activities. When I am inundated with work I do not hesitate to ask for help.

In your own opinion and in brief are we ever going to reach gender equality or equity, or it is just a theory that is morally right?

The attainment of complete gender equity and equality is a complex and ongoing endeavor rather than a mere theoretical concept. While it is rooted in moral principles of fairness and justice, achieving gender equity requires concerted efforts and systemic changes across various aspects of society.

It is important to understand that gender equity and equality are not static states but rather continuous processes of improvement and change. Progress has been made in many societies around the world, with advancements in women’s rights, increased representation of women in leadership roles, and greater awareness of gender issues. However, significant disparities and challenges persist, such as gender-based violence, wage gaps, and underrepresentation in certain fields and positions.

Efforts to achieve gender equity and equality require addressing underlying systemic issues, challenging harmful gender stereotypes and norms, and implementing policies and practices that promote inclusivity and fairness. It involves changes at individual, institutional, and societal levels, including legal reforms, educational initiatives, workplace policies, and cultural shifts.

While complete gender equity and equality may not be fully realized in the near future, progress is possible through sustained advocacy, activism, and collaboration. It is essential to continue working towards creating environments where all individuals, regardless of their gender, have equal opportunities, rights, and dignity.

In summary, while achieving gender equity and equality may be challenging, it is not merely a theoretical concept but a moral imperative and a practical goal worth pursuing for the betterment of society as a whole.

March is Women’s month and this year it is celebrated under the campaign theme, #InspireInclusion. In brief, what does the theme mean to you?

“Inspire inclusion” to me means fostering environments where people of all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and able to contribute.