Meet Michelle Yenson

Michelle Yenson is from Johannesburg and is an optometrist, Area Director and former President of Egoli Golden City Toastmasters Club.

Read more about why Michelle is proud to be Chinese and a South African.

"Be proud of who you are, be authentic, be you and be true to yourself." ~ Michelle Yenson

Name: Michelle Yenson

Occupation: Optometrist

1. Where were you born?

2. What school/college/university did you attend?

3. What is your fondest childhood memory, growing up as a Chinese child?

4. What is your favourite Chinese food?

5. Where do you live?

6. What work do you do?

7. What do you love about your job?

I love healthcare and interacting with people. I enjoy providing solutions to peoples’ visual problems as well as the “fashion” side of Optometry…assisting with selecting the most suitable frame for my patients.

8. What is your proudest achievement?

I don’t really have a “proudest” achievement as I believe all accomplishments both big and small are achievements... included in some of mine would be qualifying as an Optometrist, having my own practice for 21 years and most recently in the world of Toastmasters completing my Advanced Communication Silver as well as successfully completing my year as an Area Director.

9. Why are you proud to be South African?

I've visited different countries and so far, nowhere in the world have I come across a nation more warm and friendly than South Africans.

Photo credit: Courtesy of ‘Joburg East Express’ (Tuesday, 7th May 2019) newspaper p. 2/12.

10. Why are you proud to be Chinese?

An ancient civilization rich in culture, traditions and philosophical/spiritual wisdom and responsible for many inventions.

11. Name one Chinese tradition that you’d like future generations to continue with?

12. What advice would you give to the Chinese youth today in South Africa?

13. Is there anything else that you would like to share?

I’ve been a member of Toastmasters since 2013, an international organisation which teaches public speaking, communication and leadership skills. What I’ve noticed upon visiting a number of clubs in Johannesburg is that there are so few Chinese members. Why is that? I think everyone can benefit from having those skills which can be used personally, socially and in the workplace.