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Since 2009, TEDxMelbourne has explored ideas and issues important to you and the world- sometimes rapidly, sometimes dramatically. From climate issues to politics, technology, globalisation and freedom of speech, each area has allowed us to shine a light on what's current and relevant to you. We look forward to continuing to deliver on ideas worth spreading, alongside you, our community.
TEDxMelbourne is run by passionate volunteers who are dedicated to sharing ideas with you, our community - the Curious, Creative, Courageous and the Connected.
We strive to change the way people think and feel about the world we live in for the better. TEDxMelbourne is a not-for-profit organisation.
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.)
TED is a nonprofit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading. Started as a four-day conference in California 30 years ago, TED has grown to support its mission with multiple initiatives. The two annual TED Conferences invite the world’s leading thinkers and doers to speak for 18 minutes or less. Many of these talks are then made available, free, at TED.com. 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 annual TED Conference takes place each spring in Vancouver, British Columbia. TED’s media initiatives include TED.com, where new TED Talks are posted daily; TED Translators, which provides subtitles and interactive transcripts as well as translations from volunteers worldwide; the educational initiative TED-Ed. TED has established The Audacious Project that takes a collaborative approach to funding ideas with the potential to create change at thrilling scale; TEDx, which supports individuals or groups in hosting local, self- organized TED-style events around the world, and the TED Fellows program, helping world-changing innovators from around the globe to amplify the impact of their remarkable projects and activities.
Follow TED on Twitter at http://twitter.com/TEDTalks, or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/TED.
TEDxMelbourne is run by passionate volunteers who are dedicated to sharing ideas with you, our community - the Curious, Creative, Courageous and the Connected. We strive to change the way people think and feel about the world we live in for the better. TEDxMelbourne is a not-for-profit organisation.
How do you stand out in your industry?
The ability to influence is an art and skill. I help leaders to articulate the complex simply through speaking.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Nothing. The question is what meaning to we project onto the world and how do we engage with that in a positive way.
Where do you find “community”?
The main TED conference in Vancouver. You will never meet a smarter, more passionate, energised and future focused community. The next best is SPACE conference.
How do you stand out in your industry?
Challenge the status quo.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Increase trust between humans - inherently, we are compassionate and empathetic.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
UN Security Council - abolishing the veto rights and creating a new world leadership approach.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I'd love to speak with the fierce women in the world, past and present, such as Rosa Parks, Marie Curie, Cleopatra, Frida Kahlo and Malala Yousafzai. These fearless women stood for what was right and changed the world.
How do you stay inspired?
I look to nature, take slow walks and be present with all that is around me. You can get so many answers from nature if you just take the time to listen.
Where do you find "community"?
I'm a big believer in taking the time to listen to people's stories, and to connect with each other on a deeper, more meaningful level - beyond the superficial. When you understand someone's story, and they understand yours, you'll find that we are all more alike than we are different.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
Carlo Rovelli (Physicist) in a conversation about how to question what we know about the past, present and future.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
The beauty in overthinking.
Where do you find “community”?
In laughter - I feel in community when our faces light up together.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I've collaborated with some of the biggest events in Melbourne to create strategic partnerships - Melbourne Comedy Festival, Australian Ballet, NGV, Run Melbourne, Good Friday Appeal and stage shows like Matilda and Kinky Boots.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
I wish people were more compassionate and would seek education and understanding on the lives and cultures of people different to them. To not judge, but try to see another person's point of view, even though they may not agree or relate to it.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I am a huge Seth Godin fan -he's a Marketing Guru who I've been following for years, so one on one time with him about how brands can stay true to a cause (and not just profit) would be an interesting conversation.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I'm incredibly interested and passionate about philanthropy. Therefore, I would love to speak to Bill and Melinda Gates about their Foundation and the philanthropic work they've been doing to provide access to education, empower women and children, fight disease and inspire people to change the world.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
How can we save Australia's cultural assets?
How do you stay inspired?
Running while listening to TED talks - exercise for my body and mind at the same time.
How do you stand out in your industry?
Read. Listen. Explore. Look at ideas from disciplines and contexts that wouldn't generally be associated together.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I'd have an extensive conversation with Charlie Munger on mental models, whilst he's mainly famous for his work in the realms of the financial industry, he has actively endeavoured to crack "think better" paradigms.
Where do you find "community"?
Online platforms and social media -but backing this up by finding a related local community, however small it may be.
How do you stand out in your industry?
Attention to detail!
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I would love to gain further insight from the likes of Sheryl Sandberg or Alice Walker, I believe there so many nuances of gender inequality that we are still blind to in our day to day lives.
How do you stay inspired?
Meeting new people keeps me inspired, that is what I find so great about being a part of the TEDxMelbourne community! I also find reading and spending time with my friends and family motivating.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I am passionate about L&D and am a gritty believer of empowerment through education.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic what would it be/ what would you ask them?
I would want to talk to David Attenborough. I want to get his insights on how to empower people to connect to and care for nature.
How do you stay inspired?
I zoom out and connect to the natural environment around me. I walk barefoot on grass, spend some time looking at the sky, take a quiet walk. I find inspiration in nature.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I am forever curious and have a deep seeded desire to constantly innovate. I have a profound love for creative minds, artistic flare and beautiful words and I also have the nerdy science / mathematics brain that makes me a well rounded marketer!
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Loneliness.
I believe people need to be connected to each other and their broader communities. TEDxMelbourne do an amazing job in bringing people together to discuss leading research, best practice and innovative concepts - and I am thrilled to be a part of the team.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic what would it be/ what would you ask them?
Esther Perel - I'd love to pick her brain around how to find the balance with the tension between the need for security and the need for freedom in human relationships.
How do you stand out in your industry?
Giving time to ideas and experiences that may not immediately prove their relevance but come in handy later down the line.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
In the land of the question.
How do you stay inspired?
Showing warmth and curiosity to people that may not expect it. i.e. coffee shop workers, someone on the running track, people in the lift, someone that you wouldn't regularly interact with. It's fascinating to get an insight into someone's experience that has an entirely different lens to yours. I also carry a camera everywhere I go, which helps with my inspiration.
How do you stand out in your industry?
In the field of UX, I stand out by being "bilingual" between clients and developers through using my marketing and coding background.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
David Attenborough and speak to him about his extraordinary life in animal conservation.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
The day an alpaca made me cry of happiness.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
How we educate. I reckon we can fix almost anything with the right knowledge, emotional intelligence & empathy. Let's build a world where kids love going to school in every country and aren't taught to prioritise retention and comparison above all other factors.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would you ask them?
A psychologist or human behaviour expert on fulfilment. Finding a balance between creativity, stimulation, and education can be tricky.
How do you stay inspired?
A camera full of film.
How do you stand out in your field / industry?
It’s an attitude! I'm excited about the possibilities, the thought of what’s next, learning more, working with others to solve the problems of today/tomorrow. Continuing to strive for improvement in both myself and the organisations I partner with and supporting others to become better in their careers.
How do you stay inspired?
Through intentionally surrounding myself with people who are from diverse and varied backgrounds, sharing ideas and listening with curiosity to their stories. At other times, I find inspiration by taking a deep breath and pausing to appreciate what we have around us.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Reverse the damage we have done to the environment in which we live.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I build bespoke strategies that increase brand awareness, promote customer engagement, and ultimately drive web traffic and conversions that align with business goals.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, who would it be?
Elon Musk
How do you stay inspired?
Through the practice of daily journals.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I am a school counsellor and preschool teacher who utilises the human connection to support, inspire, educate and transform. I greatly value my role as a facilitator in people's lives to help create the type of life they desire.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
I am very passionate about promoting mental health and giving a voice to the vulnerable. I volunteer in organisation such as GriefLine and Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria to lend a hand to the community suffering from loss, trauma, anxiety and depression.. there is a great sense of honour in being present in people's pain space.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I would like to spend a day with Carl Roger, the psychologist. I want to hear his perception on the humanistic approach in counselling. How did he utilise all his counselling skills to support a vulnerable individual finding his strength?
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
Bear Grylls, how do I survive in the wild.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
Jack of All Trades, Master of Some?
Where do you find "community"?
Right now, Instagram has a great community for fellow artists. Facebook is great for fellow foodies and recipe sharing!
The TEDxMelbourne Leadership Team consists of the heads of each department. Our role is to set the strategy for TEDxMelbourne and lead our teams to create great events, engaging content and thought provoking ideas for our community.
How do you stand out in your industry?
The ability to influence is an art and skill. I help leaders to articulate the complex simply through speaking.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Nothing. The question is what meaning to we project onto the world and how do we engage with that in a positive way.
Where do you find “community”?
The main TED conference in Vancouver. You will never meet a smarter, more passionate, energised and future focused community. The next best is SPACE conference.
How do you stand out in your industry?
Challenge the status quo.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Increase trust between humans - inherently, we are compassionate and empathetic.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
UN Security Council - abolishing the veto rights and creating a new world leadership approach.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I'd love to speak with the fierce women in the world, past and present, such as Rosa Parks, Marie Curie, Cleopatra, Frida Kahlo and Malala Yousafzai. These fearless women stood for what was right and changed the world.
How do you stay inspired?
I look to nature, take slow walks and be present with all that is around me. You can get so many answers from nature if you just take the time to listen.
Where do you find "community"?
I'm a big believer in taking the time to listen to people's stories, and to connect with each other on a deeper, more meaningful level - beyond the superficial. When you understand someone's story, and they understand yours, you'll find that we are all more alike than we are different.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
Carlo Rovelli (Physicist) in a conversation about how to question what we know about the past, present and future.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
The beauty in overthinking.
Where do you find “community”?
In laughter - I feel in community when our faces light up together.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I've collaborated with some of the biggest events in Melbourne to create strategic partnerships - Melbourne Comedy Festival, Australian Ballet, NGV, Run Melbourne, Good Friday Appeal and stage shows like Matilda and Kinky Boots.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
I wish people were more compassionate and would seek education and understanding on the lives and cultures of people different to them. To not judge, but try to see another person's point of view, even though they may not agree or relate to it.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I am a huge Seth Godin fan -he's a Marketing Guru who I've been following for years, so one on one time with him about how brands can stay true to a cause (and not just profit) would be an interesting conversation.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I'm incredibly interested and passionate about philanthropy. Therefore, I would love to speak to Bill and Melinda Gates about their Foundation and the philanthropic work they've been doing to provide access to education, empower women and children, fight disease and inspire people to change the world.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
How can we save Australia's cultural assets?
How do you stay inspired?
Running while listening to TED talks - exercise for my body and mind at the same time.
How do you stand out in your field / industry?
It’s an attitude! I'm excited about the possibilities, the thought of what’s next, learning more, working with others to solve the problems of today/tomorrow. Continuing to strive for improvement in both myself and the organisations I partner with and supporting others to become better in their careers.
How do you stay inspired?
Through intentionally surrounding myself with people who are from diverse and varied backgrounds, sharing ideas and listening with curiosity to their stories. At other times, I find inspiration by taking a deep breath and pausing to appreciate what we have around us.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Reverse the damage we have done to the environment in which we live.
Our Operations Team look after TEDxMelbourne's people, culture and operations, with the mission to make our volunteering enjoyable and rewarding. Throughout the year, we work to identify and recruit talented team players and ensure meetings flow smoothly. Leading up to significant events, we're busy recruiting and training our pop-up squads of event volunteers to provide friendly and helpful service on-the-day.
How do you stand out in your industry?
Read. Listen. Explore. Look at ideas from disciplines and contexts that wouldn't generally be associated together.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I'd have an extensive conversation with Charlie Munger on mental models, whilst he's mainly famous for his work in the realms of the financial industry, he has actively endeavoured to crack "think better" paradigms.
Where do you find "community"?
Online platforms and social media -but backing this up by finding a related local community, however small it may be.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
Carlo Rovelli (Physicist) in a conversation about how to question what we know about the past, present and future.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
The beauty in overthinking.
Where do you find “community”?
In laughter - I feel in community when our faces light up together.
The Marketing Team look after the promotion of TEDxMelbourne, encouraging the community to attend our events (both physical and virtual) and engage with each other. We ensure the TED brand comes to life via interesting content, publicity, social media and brand partnerships.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
Bear Grylls, how do I survive in the wild.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
Jack of All Trades, Master of Some?
Where do you find "community"?
Right now, Instagram has a great community for fellow artists. Facebook is great for fellow foodies and recipe sharing!
How do you stand out in your industry?
Giving time to ideas and experiences that may not immediately prove their relevance but come in handy later down the line.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
In the land of the question.
How do you stay inspired?
Showing warmth and curiosity to people that may not expect it. i.e. coffee shop workers, someone on the running track, people in the lift, someone that you wouldn't regularly interact with. It's fascinating to get an insight into someone's experience that has an entirely different lens to yours. I also carry a camera everywhere I go, which helps with my inspiration.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I am forever curious and have a deep seeded desire to constantly innovate. I have a profound love for creative minds, artistic flare and beautiful words and I also have the nerdy science / mathematics brain that makes me a well rounded marketer!
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Loneliness.
I believe people need to be connected to each other and their broader communities. TEDxMelbourne do an amazing job in bringing people together to discuss leading research, best practice and innovative concepts - and I am thrilled to be a part of the team.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic what would it be/ what would you ask them?
Esther Perel - I'd love to pick her brain around how to find the balance with the tension between the need for security and the need for freedom in human relationships.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I build bespoke strategies that increase brand awareness, promote customer engagement, and ultimately drive web traffic and conversions that align with business goals.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, who would it be?
Elon Musk
How do you stay inspired?
Through the practice of daily journals.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
How we educate. I reckon we can fix almost anything with the right knowledge, emotional intelligence & empathy. Let's build a world where kids love going to school in every country and aren't taught to prioritise retention and comparison above all other factors.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would you ask them?
A psychologist or human behaviour expert on fulfilment. Finding a balance between creativity, stimulation, and education can be tricky.
How do you stay inspired?
A camera full of film.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I've collaborated with some of the biggest events in Melbourne to create strategic partnerships - Melbourne Comedy Festival, Australian Ballet, NGV, Run Melbourne, Good Friday Appeal and stage shows like Matilda and Kinky Boots.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
I wish people were more compassionate and would seek education and understanding on the lives and cultures of people different to them. To not judge, but try to see another person's point of view, even though they may not agree or relate to it.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I am a huge Seth Godin fan -he's a Marketing Guru who I've been following for years, so one on one time with him about how brands can stay true to a cause (and not just profit) would be an interesting conversation.
Curation is part crucible, part exploration of people and ideas that are relevant locally and globally. We guide and explore with our community concepts that are future-focused, challenging and provocative that stimulate deep consideration and conversation. We find, prepare and develop the ideas and talks to a level our community, and the world expect. They need to be clear, compelling and challenge our assumptions and complacency.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I'd love to speak with the fierce women in the world, past and present, such as Rosa Parks, Marie Curie, Cleopatra, Frida Kahlo and Malala Yousafzai. These fearless women stood for what was right and changed the world.
How do you stay inspired?
I look to nature, take slow walks and be present with all that is around me. You can get so many answers from nature if you just take the time to listen.
Where do you find "community"?
I'm a big believer in taking the time to listen to people's stories, and to connect with each other on a deeper, more meaningful level - beyond the superficial. When you understand someone's story, and they understand yours, you'll find that we are all more alike than we are different.
How do you stand out in your industry?
In the field of UX, I stand out by being "bilingual" between clients and developers through using my marketing and coding background.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
David Attenborough and speak to him about his extraordinary life in animal conservation.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
The day an alpaca made me cry of happiness.
How do you stand out in your industry?
The ability to influence is an art and skill. I help leaders to articulate the complex simply through speaking.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Nothing. The question is what meaning to we project onto the world and how do we engage with that in a positive way.
Where do you find “community”?
The main TED conference in Vancouver. You will never meet a smarter, more passionate, energised and future focused community. The next best is SPACE conference.
How do you stand out in your industry?
Attention to detail!
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I would love to gain further insight from the likes of Sheryl Sandberg or Alice Walker, I believe there so many nuances of gender inequality that we are still blind to in our day to day lives.
How do you stay inspired?
Meeting new people keeps me inspired, that is what I find so great about being a part of the TEDxMelbourne community! I also find reading and spending time with my friends and family motivating.
How do you stand out in your industry?
I am passionate about L&D and am a gritty believer of empowerment through education.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic what would it be/ what would you ask them?
I would want to talk to David Attenborough. I want to get his insights on how to empower people to connect to and care for nature.
How do you stay inspired?
I zoom out and connect to the natural environment around me. I walk barefoot on grass, spend some time looking at the sky, take a quiet walk. I find inspiration in nature.
Our Production team 'make it happen' by bringing our vision and ideas to life on stage. We work closely with all TEDxMelbourne teams to ensure our creative direction is articulated at the highest production standard for our speakers and audiences. Our Production team are a diverse group of left and right-brainers who share a passion for events, and love connecting the finer details with the big picture (no matter how big!).
How do you stand out in your industry?
I am a school counsellor and preschool teacher who utilises the human connection to support, inspire, educate and transform. I greatly value my role as a facilitator in people's lives to help create the type of life they desire.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
I am very passionate about promoting mental health and giving a voice to the vulnerable. I volunteer in organisation such as GriefLine and Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria to lend a hand to the community suffering from loss, trauma, anxiety and depression.. there is a great sense of honour in being present in people's pain space.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I would like to spend a day with Carl Roger, the psychologist. I want to hear his perception on the humanistic approach in counselling. How did he utilise all his counselling skills to support a vulnerable individual finding his strength?
As a not-for-profit, it's important for us to have a sound financial setup through a dedicated team to provide due diligence in all areas of finance, financial modelling, cashflow and funding. We ensure other teams have support with their budgets and accounting, to keep our events as cost-effective as possible and to ensure we comply with not-for-profit legislation and requirements. These are undertaken in close collaboration with our legal team.
How do you stand out in your field / industry?
It’s an attitude! I'm excited about the possibilities, the thought of what’s next, learning more, working with others to solve the problems of today/tomorrow. Continuing to strive for improvement in both myself and the organisations I partner with and supporting others to become better in their careers.
How do you stay inspired?
Through intentionally surrounding myself with people who are from diverse and varied backgrounds, sharing ideas and listening with curiosity to their stories. At other times, I find inspiration by taking a deep breath and pausing to appreciate what we have around us.
What do you wish you could change in the world right now?
Reverse the damage we have done to the environment in which we live.
Our Legal Team helps address legal and commercial issues across the organisation, including governance, contracts and compliance. We help problem-solve and troubleshoot in innovative ways and provide appropriate solutions to legal and/or commercial issues that arise throughout the year.
If you could talk to a world-leading expert to gain insight on any topic, what would it be?
I'm incredibly interested and passionate about philanthropy. Therefore, I would love to speak to Bill and Melinda Gates about their Foundation and the philanthropic work they've been doing to provide access to education, empower women and children, fight disease and inspire people to change the world.
If you were invited to do a TED talk, what would be the title?
How can we save Australia's cultural assets?
How do you stay inspired?
Running while listening to TED talks - exercise for my body and mind at the same time.
