The Lincoln Arts Center is set to welcome this year’s TEDxBrayfordPool collaboration-themed “United by Ideas.”
TEDxBrayford Pool, which was founded in 2011, is working with TEDxKyiv (founded 2009) this November to give guest speakers the stage to discuss obstacles we face as a globe.
The event will be held at the Lincoln Arts Centre stage on the University of Lincoln Campus from Saturday, the 2nd of November, to Sunday, the 3rd of November 2024, starting at 3 pm.
Organizers at TEDxBrayford Pool Andy Farenden and Owen Lewis worked with TEDxKyivs’ Organiser Vladyslav Greziev to create this year’s theme, “United by Ideas”, where speakers will have the platform to communicate their ideas on how to combat global challenges.
Involving Ukranian speakers creates a forefront of discussion for the ongoing Russo-Ukranian conflict. Speakers will also include some of the University of Lincoln’s own students, alumni, and those currently working within the university who will have the chance to present their ideas.
This year, the annual event saw a record 86 speaker applications; 26% were Ukranian and 61% identified as women. Jack Shelford, a Senior Lecturer and Cinematographer at the University, is one of over 20 guest speakers to be selected.
Shelfords’ discussion will be centred around the impacts of film production on climate change, what is seen on screen, and how that would impact the audience.
Speaking on the partnership with Kyiv, Shelford said: “When I hear the Ukrainian speakers in the rehearsals, they are bringing stories and first-hand knowledge of events that are very much just on my own personal periphery.
“Not only reminding us of what is going on but to kind of add the real personal human side.”
TEDx has created the chance for experts both native to Lincolnshire and Ukraine to have the platform to “amplify voices that challenge, inspire and transform.”
Last year’s event was held in the engine shed and on the university campus. While the move to the Lincoln Arts Center is exciting, it is a smaller venue, so tickets are more limited.
The theme “United by Ideas’ TEDx aims to connect people to share ideas and inspire change. TEDxBrayford Pool said: “We are offering a rare opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives.”
From soldier puppeteers to biotechnologists and musicians, Ukrainian experts will be there to give a unique insight into how their fields contribute to supporting their home country in a time of war. The Ukrainian speakers will bring a wide range of perspectives on how different fields can help better the world.