A message, a phone call, and a few unexpected things in common, that’s how the first week of Buddy Up, Siyane! began.
Eight new members were paired with eight existing members for a four-week journey of friendship, discovery, and shared experiences. The idea was simple: give each new member a familiar face at the club and someone to enjoy the journey with.
And judging by the beautiful designs that came out of Week 1, our buddies have plenty of creativity to share!
Getting Past the First Hello
Starting a conversation with someone new can feel a little awkward. So the first challenge gave our buddies a few things to discover: three things they had in common, two differences, and one hidden talent or surprising fact about each person.
It’s a small activity, but those discoveries give a conversation somewhere to go. A shared interest can lead to a story, and a difference can lead to a good laugh, or a friendly debate!
The pairs were also invited to arrange a physical or virtual meetup and capture a memory together.
A Name, a Design, and a Team of Their Own
Then came the creative challenge: choose a name for the duo and bring it to life through a logo, mascot, or photo design.
Everyone started with the same instructions, but the results had their own personalities. It was lovely to see the care and imagination that went into the flyers, and how each pair found a way to express their team’s identity.
These creations deserved to be shared beyond our WhatsApp group. At our president’s suggestion, we’re giving them a place here on the Siyane website.
Enjoy our buddies’ Week 1 creations below!
The Friendship Behind the Flyer
The finished designs are beautiful, but there’s something equally valuable behind them: two people exchanging ideas, choosing a name, and making something together.
That’s a lovely first step towards feeling comfortable with each other, and feeling at home in the club.
Points and challenges give the programme a little excitement. The hope is that the friendships continue well beyond the four weeks, with someone to sit beside at meetings, practise with, and encourage along the way.
Thank you to our new members and their buddies for such an enthusiastic start. Week 2 is now open, taking our pairs into Siyane’s people, history, and stories.
There’s more to discover, and plenty more memories to make.
Ravindu Mirihana
Vice President Membership, 2026/27
Siyane Toastmasters Club
