9 minute read
Zemora Fernandes
Zemora's journey into anchoring didn't start with formal training or a clear career path. It began during her school years when she unexpectedly got a chance to participate in public speaking. Initially, she didn't envision herself as an anchor, but her teachers' encouragement and a few public speaking competitions sparked a passion within her that she hadn't foreseen. This article explores Zemora's inspiring progression from those early school experiences to her current status as a prominent anchor for major events. It delves into her most memorable moments, the challenges she has overcome, the influences shaping her career, and her aspirations for the future.
The Genesis of a Passion
Zemora's foray into public speaking began somewhat unexpectedly during her school years. Initially, she did not pursue a formal course in public speaking; rather, her teachers provided the necessary guidance and training. They recognized her potential and worked with her to refine her skills. Through participating in two to three public speaking competitions, Zemora discovered her talent and love for engaging an audience. These experiences were pivotal, as they allowed her to realise that she had a natural affinity for speaking in front of people.
At home, Zemora would frequently simulate being an anchor, envisioning herself addressing different audiences. This playful practice further solidified her interest in public speaking. Her passion extended to her church, where she started hosting events like parish fêtes. This progression from informal practice to actual events laid a robust foundation for her anchoring career. It wasn't long before a relative recognized her talent and asked her to host a wedding, acknowledging her natural ability to speak well. Zemora accepted the challenge, hosting a smaller-scale wedding, which marked the true beginning of her career in anchoring. This event was a turning point, as it validated her skills and opened the door to more opportunities.
Building Experience Through Diverse Events
Zemora's early experiences in hosting various events were crucial in shaping her career. She started with smaller functions such as baptisms, first holy communions, confirmations, and birthday parties. These events provided her with the perfect platform to hone her skills, building confidence and expertise with each engagement. Every event was a learning experience, allowing her to refine her techniques and develop her unique style.
Gradually, she began taking on more significant responsibilities, hosting weddings and concerts. Each event added to her repertoire, providing her with diverse experiences and the opportunity to refine her style. Zemora attributes her initial push into public speaking to her school, which gave her the first chance to realise her potential. The transition from smaller, more intimate gatherings to larger, more complex events was seamless, thanks to the solid foundation she had built. As she continued to gain experience, her reputation grew, and she began to be recognized as a reliable and talented anchor.
Memorable Moments on Stage
Among the many events Zemora has hosted, one particularly memorable moment stands out. For the first time, she performed on a mega stage, engaging a large audience and making them dance. Despite being a last-minute replacement, her energy and enthusiasm captivated the crowd. One audience member even expressed their intention to attend the next day's concert if Zemora was hosting, a testament to the impact she had on the audience. This event was significant for Zemora as it reinforced her belief in her abilities and highlighted the connection she could create with an audience. The positive feedback she received from this experience remains one of her most cherished memories.
This particular event was a turning point in her career, as it validated her skills on a larger platform. The ability to engage a massive audience and make a lasting impression was a significant achievement. The encouragement and appreciation from the audience were instrumental in boosting her confidence. This experience taught her the importance of connecting with the audience on a personal level and delivering an unforgettable performance. It also showed her that with passion and dedication, she could excel in any setting, no matter how large or challenging.
Tackling Challenges in Anchoring
Anchoring is not without its challenges. Zemora points out that many people underestimate the effort required to speak sensibly and engagingly. She is acutely aware of the importance of delivering meaningful content and avoids speaking nonsensically. Feedback from friends and colleagues who have experienced poor anchoring reinforces her commitment to quality. She understands that every word spoken on stage has an impact and strives to ensure that her content is always relevant and engaging.
Rudeness from some individuals is another challenge Zemora faces. Although not a constant issue, when it does occur, it can be disheartening. These instances require a great deal of patience and professionalism to handle gracefully. Additionally,
managing clients' expectations can be tricky, especially when their ideas for events might not be feasible. Navigating these situations requires tact and diplomacy, ensuring that the event goes smoothly while maintaining professional integrity. Zemora has learned to balance her expertise with the clients' visions, finding a middle ground that satisfies both parties. This ability to manage expectations and deliver outstanding results is a testament to her skills as an anchor.
Influences and Role Models
Zemora draws inspiration from various individuals in the anchoring world, depending on the type of event. For weddings, corporate events, or concerts, she looks up to different role models who excel in their respective niches. This approach allows her to learn from the best and adapt different styles to suit her unique personality and the specific requirements of each event. By observing how seasoned professionals handle various scenarios, Zemora has been able to incorporate their techniques into her own style, making her performances more versatile and engaging.
Her diverse role models reflect her understanding that anchoring is not a one-size-fits-all profession. Each type of event demands a different approach, and by observing and learning from experts in each field, Zemora continues to evolve as an anchor. She believes that staying open to new ideas and continuously learning from others is crucial for growth in this industry. Her ability to adapt and
innovate has been key to her success, allowing her to excel in various types of events and connect with different audiences.
Special Events and New Roles
One of the highlights of Zemora's career is the Masa Masquerade event. Initially called as a replacement MC, she was later invited to host the entire four-day event, with two days of solo hosting. This opportunity was a significant milestone for Zemora, showcasing her ability to handle large-scale events and the trust the organisers placed in her. Hosting such a prestigious event not only boosted her confidence but also provided valuable learning experiences.
During the Masa Masquerade, Zemora learned new terms and techniques from her co-hosts, which she later applied when hosting alone. The positive response from the organisers and audience solidified this event as a cornerstone in her career. It was an affirmation of her skills and potential, showing that she could excel even in high-pressure situations. This event marked a turning point in her career, opening up new opportunities and setting a high standard for her future performances.
Handling Criticism And Feedback
Zemora welcomes feedback and criticism, understanding its importance in her growth as an anchor. While she has mostly received positive comments about her engaging style and friendly demeanor she remains open to suggestions for improvement. She believes that feedback helps her refine her skills and enhance future performances. This openness to feedback is a testament to her commitment to excellence and her desire to continuously improve.
However, Zemora also trusts her judgement and experience. If she knows she has done her best and someone offers unsolicited criticism without understanding the nuances of her job, she remains confident in her abilities. This balanced approach allows her to grow while staying true to her professional instincts. She understands that not all feedback is constructive and has learned to discern which suggestions will genuinely help her improve. This ability to filter feedback effectively has been crucial in her development as an anchor.
Advice for Aspiring Anchors
Zemora's advice for aspiring anchors is straightforward: go for it. She emphasises the vast scope in the industry and the importance of pushing oneself to improve continuously. Practising speaking and gaining experience through various events are essential steps in building a successful anchoring career. She believes that the initial challenges are part of the learning process and that perseverance is key to success.
Despite the initial challenges, Zemora encourages aspiring anchors to persevere. Her own experience of covering numerous events in a short span and gaining recognition underscores the potential for rapid growth in the industry. With dedication and practice, newcomers can carve out their niche and find success. Zemora's journey is a testament to the fact that with passion, dedication, and hard work, anyone can achieve their dreams in the anchoring industry.
Industry Evolution and Future Goals
Although Zemora has only been in the industry for a few years, she has observed significant changes and developments. The increasing demand for dynamic and engaging anchors reflects the evolving expectations of audiences and event organisers. Anchors now play a crucial role in creating memorable experiences, making their presence indispensable. Zemora recognizes the importance of staying updated with industry trends and continuously improving her skills to meet these evolving demands.
Looking ahead, Zemora aims to expand her reach and take on more weddings and concerts. Her love for events where she can make people dance drives her ambition to excel in these areas. She acknowledges that it takes time for people to recognize an anchor's potential, but she is determined to keep growing and achieving her goals. Zemora's vision for the future includes not only personal growth but also contributing to the evolution of the anchoring industry. She hopes to inspire others and set a benchmark for excellence in this field.
Conclusion
Zemora's journey from school public speaking competitions to hosting mega stage events is a testament to her talent, dedication, and passion for anchoring. Her ability to connect with audiences, handle challenges, and continuously learn from her experiences has paved the way for a promising career. With her sights set on more weddings and concerts, Zemora is poised to make an even greater impact in the anchoring world.
