The ever-popular TEDxColombo, an independently organized event licensed by TED, is set to return for its 10th edition, featuring local voices and exclusive TED Talks videos. The event aims to provide a platform for speakers who can connect with their audience in a way that keeps ideas worth sharing alive. TEDxColombo accepts applications from all geographies, age groups, and genders, in all three local languages of English, Sinhala, and Tamil.
The deadline for speaker applications and nominations for the 10th edition of TEDxColombo is February 27, 2023. The curatorial committee will review applications and select presenters in June, following personal interviews and auditions. Interested individuals can visit www.tedxcolombo.org, to learn more or apply to be a speaker and also to view talks from past events, register for newsletters, and find out about other ways to get involved with TEDxColombo, as volunteers or sponsors. The date of the event will be announced once the list the speakers is finalized.
TEDxColombo is organized by a volunteer group of community advocates who are committed to spotlighting bright minds and inspiring community members who provoke meaningful conversations and change. According to Shanuki de Alwis, a TEDx Colombo speaker from 2016 and a volunteer, "TEDx has changed the trajectory of my life, boosted my confidence and empowered me to advocate for the causes I believe in. Just being able to say I am a TEDx Alumni or Speaker has made a world of a difference not only to me but to the communities I have been able to support. I urge everyone to take up this opportunity."
TEDx events have been responsible for bringing communities together to share a TED-like experience, since their inception in 2009. Many of the best talks from TEDx events have gone on to feature on TED.com, garnering millions of views from audiences worldwide. Koshal Krishnakumar, TEDxColombo Co-Organizer, urges individuals to submit their ideas or recommend someone they know with an idea worth sharing by visiting the website. With such a diverse audience, TEDxColombo offers a unique opportunity to share ideas with a broad spectrum of people, providing an exceptional chance to make a difference.