The Real Antidote to Public Speaking Nerves | Mthabisi Mhlanga | TEDxMcMasterU

Drawing on his journey as a public speaker and coach, Mthabisi Mhlanga explores how confidence is built through action and experience. His talk encourages audiences to take small steps that create evidence of their abilities, build momentum, and strengthen their belief in themselves. Mthabisi Mhlanga is a keynote speaker, public speaking coach, and product leader dedicated to helping people find and own their voice. Born and raised in Zimbabwe, his journey from academic probation in university to the quarterfinals of the World Championship of Public Speaking shaped his core belief that confidence isn't a personality trait, it's built through evidence. Trained as a CPA at KPMG before transitioning into product management in tech, he brings analytical precision to the deeply human work of communication.

Mthabisi has coached founders, executives, and high-performing teams to speak under pressure and lead with presence. His work centers on helping people rewrite the internal narratives that keep them playing small so they can speak in a way that moves rooms, decisions, and lives. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx