Adventurers encouraged to take on TEDxUniversity of Staffordshire
Applications are open for speakers to participate in TEDxUniversityofStaffordshire, which has embraced the theme ‘Adventures into the Unknown.’
The prestigious event will be hosted at the university’s Catalyst building on Thursday 15 May, 2025, and speakers will be selected by a panel chaired by University of Staffordshire Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, Professor Martin Jones.
(Image: 2024 speakers in the Catalyst Building at the University.)
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.
