Frome College’s Merlin Theatre will be showcasing an independently organised full day TEDx event in the New Year. Uniquely, this Frome College event is primarily set up and run by the students themselves.
Organisers say, “TED is a non-profit making organisation devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks (18 minutes or less). TED began in 1984 as a conference where technology, entertainment and design converged, and today covers almost all topics — from science to business and global issues — in more than 100 languages. Meanwhile, independently run TEDx events help share ideas in communities around the world.
Jane Davis from Frome College said, “The event will take place on Saturday 28th January at the Merlin Theatre. Our guest speakers will ‘Aspire to Inspire’ and spark discussions both in the theatre and beyond.
“TEDx is a programme of local, self-organised events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. We have access to an internationally recognised platform that allows our confirmed speakers to both interact with our local audience and a global platform.
“Although TED is international, TEDx are individual events which are self-organised by our team of students and staff, to showcase our local community.
“TED speakers have included Bill Gates, Jane Goodall, Elizabeth Gilbert, Sir Richard Branson, Nandan Nilekani, Philippe Starck, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Sal Khan and Daniel Kahneman.”
The TED mission is: ‘TED is a global community, welcoming people from every discipline and culture who seek a deeper understanding of the world. We believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives, and ultimately, the world.
‘On TED.com we are building a clearinghouse of free knowledge from the world’s most inspired thinkers — and a community of curious souls to engage with ideas and each other, both online and at TED and TEDx events around the world. In fact, everything we do from our conferences to our TED talks to the projects sparked by the TED Prize, from the global TEDx community to the TED-Ed lesson series — is driven by this goal: How can we best spread great ideas? TED is owned by a non-profit, non-partisan foundation. Our agenda is to make great ideas accessible and spark conversation.’
TEDx is now being launched at Frome College and will benefit both the local community and the wider public; being freely available to the millions of people who access the free online TED service.
Jane continued, “Do you have an idea worth spreading? Then you could potentially join the list of fantastic speakers and spread your unique experiences and messages to the world. Auditions will be held soon, and we welcome anyone who wishes to aspire to inspire.
“TEDx Frome is a non-profit making event, and we wish to showcase the incredible talent that enhances both our community and beyond. Contact the Frome College organising team and get involved at: tedxfrome@fromecollege .org.”
