01 Nov 2023
Fresh, invigorating ideas and discussions were at the heart of St Albans’ first TEDx event.
TEDx are local assemblies with a common goal: to inspire, challenge, and ignite passion for ideas worth spreading.
With the overarching theme of connection, the day brought together 14 diverse speakers, including two A-level students, engaging the audience in profound discussions about life, community, and human relationships.
Taking place at the Abbey Theatre, it not only included captivating talks, but also offered attendees an exhilarating dance session, a soulful choir performance, and a lunchtime panel addressing the pressing issue of loneliness in modern society.
It was hosted by St Albans resident and TV news presenter Martine Croxall, and guests included local MP Daisy Cooper. Behind this groundbreaking event were a team of organisers made up of local business owners including Patricia Seabright, Amy Burnett, Cheryl Luzet, Wendy Powell, Sarah Pascaru, Eleanor Sollis and Claire Stevenson.
The videos of the speakers’ talks will be made available on the TEDx YouTube channel in due course and plans are in place for next year’s event.
Co-organiser Patricia Seabright said after the event: “All around the world we see huge problems, disconnection, isolation, and conflict. What TEDx does is enable people to share ideas and solutions and, through the medium of powerful talks, encourages others to listen thoughtfully. The power of sharing ideas and being genuinely open to hearing other truths, other paradigms and world views is more important than ever. It fosters openness, connection, and collaboration, which leads to a willingness to work together to solve problems and seize opportunities, both globally and locally.
“I am delighted that we have brought the TEDx format to St Albans, delighted to work with a fantastic group of women who were my co-organisers and thrilled that all the hard work and dedication of the speakers delivered such a great day of inspiration for our St Albans community.”
Speaker Claire Thrift agreed: “It’s rare that an opportunity like this arises and gives a platform to those with little or no experience in public speaking. But it’s so vital to have events that bring voices of various parts of the community together in such a positive way and delivered by those with unique and personal perspectives.
“The journey from start to finish was one of such incredible support from organisers and volunteers alike that by the time the day came, we were all a team and ready to connect with the audience who had come with open minds and looking to be informed, inspired, and entertained – and I think that this inaugural TEDx St Albans delivered and then some!”
Bharti Lim, also a speaker on the day, said: “TEDx gives people the opportunity to learn and be inspired by new ideas. Watching them online, I have found so many have helped me think differently, so when the opportunity to be a speaker was available, I knew I couldn’t let this pass.
“The lead up was nerve-racking, but now the event is over I realise the journey was unique and amazing. I am so pleased I didn’t let the opportunity pass me by and that I have been able to share my idea thanks to TEDx St Albans. The support we received not only helped us with the day but will go on to help us with future speaking events. What a fantastic event to say I have been part of.”
Co-organiser Cheryl Luzet added: “We are delighted that the first St Albans TEDx event was such a resounding success. As well as our 14 speakers who shared their stories across a variety of topics in an engaging and insightful way, we also hosted a lunchtime panel discussion on the topic of loneliness.
“Thanks to all our sponsors, including our headline sponsor Debenhams Ottaway, for making it possible for the event to happen and to our wonderful audience who really brought the event to life. We look forward to running the event again next year and will be calling for speakers in the spring.”
All photos by Stephanie Belton.
