From Story Holder to Storyteller: TEDxBeixinqiao Wants You

Chances are you've heard of TED, the non-profit powerhouse dedicated to disseminating, as they term it, ideas worth sharing. If you've got an idea worth sharing with TED, now's your chance to shine! TEDx is coming to Beixinqiao and is on the prowl for speakers with a knack for idea generation, ready to dazzle at their upcoming event set for April 2024.

While related, TED and TEDx talks differ in their scope. Whereas TED conferences are held on a larger scale and appeal to a global audience, TEDx seeks to be more regional, focusing on smaller, local audiences and speakers. That being said, even though it is smaller, TEDx still looks to impress.

Sophie, the creative mind helming TEDxBeixinqiao, emphasizes that they're not just looking for fancy titles or impressive job positions. Instead, they're after people with captivating ideas ready to be unleashed.

The journey from a story holder to a storyteller can be quite transformative. But here's a common hardship: many of those with intriguing tales to tell struggle with storytelling. Sophie shares, “I've encountered speakers with interesting stories who, unfortunately, lack the finesse in public speaking or articulation."

Unlike off-the-cuff speeches, TEDxBeixinqiao participants have a solid four to five months to master their deliveries under the guidance of skilled coaches. These coaches pose thought-provoking questions like "What's your idea?" and "Why this idea?", pushing speakers to dive deeper into their narratives.

As the process unfolds, some participants may start to question: Is my story engaging enough? Am I merely amusing myself? Or worse, am I just self-promoting? Sophie provides clarity: TED Talks are all about the audience. The goal is to present an idea so compelling that it prompts listeners to question, to think, and to transform – that's the true essence of "ideas worth spreading".

TEDxBeixinqiao welcomes both local and international speakers. All speeches are to be delivered in English, with speakers chosen based on the potential impact and quality of their ideas. The theme? "Innovation Illustrated". They're currently making an open call for speakers, not knowing what kinds of applications to expect but excited at the prospect. As Sophie puts it, it's like the infamous chocolates in Forest Gump – you never know what you're going to get next!

Note: TEDxBeixinqiao is actively scouting for speakers, with the deadline for applications being Nov 12. So, if you've got a story itching to be told, grab this opportunity – scan the code and register.

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Images: Courtesy of TedxBeixinqiao