Partner Article

TEDxTeesside continues to build a Global TEDx Community in Teesside

Local and global voices will be amplified, as they share powerful ideas and inspire change at TEDxTeesside – and you can be a part of it!

As a global TEDx community on Teesside builds, the next inspiring and thought-provoking TEDx event will take place at Digital Life, Teesside University on 16th October, celebrating ideas, innovation, and connection right here in the North East.

Eight speakers from across the UK and beyond will deliver their TED talk, including Holly Ellis (The Scouse Scientist), Tamu Thomas (author of “Women Who Work Too Much”), Joel Bailey (co-founder of Arwen AI), and Dr Mansoor Soomro (author of the Generalist Advantage).

Topics range from genetics, humanising ambition, AI solutions for online abuse, and climate resilience, to exploring widowhood and redefining success in our modern world.

Along with the talks, attendees will experience performances from musicians, and spoken word artists, making this event a unique and immersive experience.

Sponsors Tees Valley Combined Authority and Darlington Building Society, along with Square One Law, Atomix Educational Trust, and media partner Bdaily have helped to make the event possible, bringing a platform that is watched by millions of people worldwide to Teesside.

Michaela Reaney, the organiser of TEDxTeesside, said: “The energy around this year’s event is something else. From genetics that’ll change how you think about every NHS interaction to AI solutions for online abuse – these speakers are tackling the stuff that actually matters. I love that we’ve got Holly breaking down science barriers alongside local innovators like Mansoor, Kim, Ned, and Tabby. It’s going to be one of those days where you walk out with your head spinning from all the brilliant ideas you’ve just heard.”

Steph Bales, Director of Research and Enterprise at Teesside University, said: “We are delighted to host TEDxTeesside in our superb new Digital Life building, a fitting venue which is already inspiring digital creativity.

“This event is about empowering people, building connections, and creating opportunities for ideas to thrive, and it reflects our own aim as an anchor institution to inspire innovation and community engagement.”

TED Talks are currently viewed at an astonishing rate of 1.5 million times per day, which means that a new viewing begins every 17 seconds.

This incredible reach illustrates the global demand for ideas that challenge, educate, and inspire.

Michaela added: "Now, TEDxTeesside is bringing that energy directly to the North East, where we’re building a local community around this global brand.

"The timing couldn’t be more perfect. As Tees Valley positions itself as a powerhouse for innovation with Digital Life, the Investment Zone, Net Zero and being the fastest growing tech hub outside of London, TEDxTeesside provides the global platform our region’s ideas deserve.

“TEDxTeesside is open to everyone in our community. We believe that to tackle the world’s biggest challenges we need everyone in the room.”

Unlike major cities like Newcastle, Manchester or London, Teesside often misses out on hosting significant events of this scale.

Many people face the added cost of travel or simply cannot attend because these events are far away.

“We are here to change that,” Michaela said.

"Community tickets are distributed through local charities and community groups, ensuring an inclusive audience that reflects the region we’re proud to represent. This year we’ve been joined by local small businesses and solopreneurs to support more community tickets through our micro sponsorships starting at £100.

“While other regions have hosted TEDx events for years, Teesside is now claiming its place on the world stage, proving that world-changing ideas don’t just come from London or Silicon Valley – they’re being developed right here.”

Tickets are still available for the main event on 16th of October at Digital Life, Teesside University here - so don’t miss out on being part of the Teesside TEDx community!