Nine inspirational people will each deliver a talk that explores this year’s theme, 'Adventures into the Unknown'.
Leading the line-up is world explorer, author and documentary-maker Major Levison Wood, who will argue that adventure and exploration enables us to achieve our full potential as humans. In his talk, the Chancellor of University of Staffordshire, who grew up in Forsbrook, will reflect on his own experiences of walking the length of The Nile, The Himalayas and Central America.
Commander Nathan Gray, described as the ‘real-life Top Gun’, has more than 140 combat missions to his name, making him one of the most decorated pilots in British Armed Forces history. Originally from Sneyd Green, Nathan will describe the challenges he has faced and the ways he overcame the odds as a fighter pilot, going to war and testing cutting edge technology.
Joining them is former Stoke City footballer Mark ‘Jonah’ Jones who will explore the psychological challenges athletes face when their careers end. His talk will delve into the pressures of transition, identity loss, and the support needed to navigate life beyond professional sport.
Successful Staffordshire businesswomen will also take to the stage. Carol Shanahan OBE, Chair of Port Vale FC, will reflect on her experience of buying a professional football club and putting the community at the heart of its success.
Emily Johnson, co-founder of 1882 Ceramics and the fifth generation of the pottery family that started Johnson Brothers, will discuss how people are at the heart of creativity and are essential to the craft of ceramics.
Aida Cable has helped to transform the lives of babies and children across the country with national charity Thrive at Five, with the organisation’s first area of activity in Stoke-on-Trent. Her talk will highlight the importance of parenting and its impact on brain development in early childhood years.
Stoke-on-Trent's answer to Sherlock Holmes will also be on the line-up. Security consultant and deductionist Ben Cardall will explore society’s increased dependence on technologies like AI and where that leaves fundamental human qualities like critical thinking, reasoning, and awareness.
Two speakers from University of Staffordshire will also be sharing their big ideas at the event.
Games Art Lecturer Dr Emma Fallows will introduce audiences to the concept of 'hacking joy', drawing on her own experiences of optimism, passion, and openness. Completing the line-up is Technical Specialist Daniel Haynes who will shine a light on one of the most exciting advancements in media technologies in recent years – virtual production.
Professor Martin Jones, University of Staffordshire Vice-Chancellor, said: “Our speakers truly embody the spirit of this year’s theme, each offering their own unique perspective on ‘Adventures into the Unknown’.
“It promises to be an inspiring evening filled with bold ideas and captivating stories. While attendance on the night is limited, the talks will be available on the TEDx platform after the event - helping to showcase these brilliant minds on a global stage.”
TEDxUniversityofStaffordshire takes place on Thursday 15 May at the Catalyst Building, University of Staffordshire. Tickets will be released for the exclusive event next month via the TEDxUniversityofStaffordshire website.
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