Applications are now open for speakers to participate in TEDxUniversityofStaffordshire, which has embraced the theme 'Adventures into the Unknown'. Those interested can apply by completing this online form.
This prestigious event will be hosted at the university’s Catalyst building on Thursday 15 May. Speakers will be selected by a panel chaired by University of Staffordshire Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, Professor Martin Jones.
Professor Jones said: “This year’s theme opens up a world of possibilities, and we are eager to see how people interpret and respond to the topic.
“Our previous TEDx events have showcased a remarkable line-up of speakers with ideas worth sharing, and we are equally excited about this year’s event. All talks have been shared on the global TEDx platform, placing us firmly on the map for creativity and innovation. Now, we’re adding adventure and exploration to the mix.”
The last TEDx event, held at the university in May 2024, featured British middleweight boxing champion Nathan Heaney, award-winning playwright Deborah McAndrew, and North Staffordshire-based sculptor Andy Edwards, each presenting on the theme ‘Back to the Future.’
Among the standout talks from previous events are presentations by graduates Gemma-Louise Walsh and Sharanya Ranganatha Urs, whose talks, ‘What Making Bad Art Actually Feels Like’ and ‘Why Schools Should Talk About Sex’, have collectively amassed more than 50,000 YouTube views.
Sharanya, a journalism graduate from India, reflected: “The number of views has been overwhelming, highlighting how important the topic of sex education is and suggesting that many people feel the same.”
She added: “Growing up watching TEDx videos, I never imagined I would be part of it. When I was selected, I wanted to make an impact, and I’ve always taken pride in talking about my culture.
“Being on that stage with my friends in the audience felt incredible – like I was on cloud nine, the queen of the world. I’m so glad I took the opportunity.”
To apply, potential speakers are asked to complete an application form and submit a three-minute video pitching their presentation idea. TEDx talks should be less than 18 minutes long and delivered by a single presenter or group, fitting the theme 'Adventures into the Unknown'. The deadline for applications is Sunday 23 February.
Speakers will be confirmed following a meeting of the judging panel in March, and tickets for the TEDxUniversityofStaffordshire main event will be made available to the public in April.
About TEDx, x = independently organized event
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations.)
About TED
TED is on a mission to discover and spread ideas that spark imagination, embrace possibility and catalyze impact. Our organization is devoted to curiosity, reason, wonder and the pursuit of knowledge — without an agenda. We welcome people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world and connection with others, and we invite everyone to engage with ideas and activate them in your community.
TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design converged, but today it spans a multitude of worldwide communities and initiatives exploring everything from science and business to education, arts and global issues. In addition to the hundreds of TED Talks curated from our annual conferences and published on TED.com, we produce original podcasts, short video series, animated educational lessons (TED-Ed) and TV programs that are translated into more than 100 languages and distributed via partnerships around the world. Each year, more than 3,000 independently run TEDx events bring people together to share ideas and bridge divides in communities on every continent. Through the Audacious Project, TED has helped catalyze more than $3 billion in funding for projects that seek to make the world more beautiful, sustainable and just. In 2020, TED launched Countdown, an initiative to accelerate solutions to the climate crisis and mobilize a movement for a net-zero future. View a full list of TED’s many programs and initiatives.
TED is owned by a nonprofit, nonpartisan foundation. Our aim is to help create a future worth pursuing for all.
Follow TED on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and on LinkedIn.