130 nations across the world have jumped into the Tedx talks realm, an offshoot of the global speaking hub that brings knowledge to the masses in bitesize video forms.
These have proven hugely successful in the U.K in the past 5 years from Sheffield to London and everywhere in between. Ideas, views, concepts and dreams discussed across I.T, poetry, innovation, health and well-being. Now Tedx will come to the western most point in Europe. A continent experiencing division and strife in the wake of growing racial and religious tensions. Migration concerns with Syria, Islamic extremist attacks in Paris and fear are dominating a disgruntled European public. In recent days Ireland was named as one of 60 nations posing a threat to the Islamic State. Yet in February of 2016 Tedx will reach Galway, Ireland. The furthermost point in western Europe from the hub of Isis in Syria. Here Conor Stitt hopes views and contrasting beliefs from a dozen speakers can bring about dialogue and help aid a nation on the verge of economic rebound and a continent divided. The man behind the event is a Galway native, Conor Stitt, an active member of the national union that represents students in Ireland.
Q.1. Why is Ted Talks important for a city like Galway Conor?
A.1. Galway is a city that throughout its history has been a cultural hub of the West of Ireland where it's stories and arts have always been to the fore as opposed to a faceless commercial city. Galway has character and its color, beauty and vibes have made it one of the most creative and innovative cities in Europe. For TEDx, it's a great platform to showcase Galway on a global stage and show what we have to offer.
Q.2. How much planning is going into the event?
A.2. Planning started in August and the event is happening in February. Due to this being the first TEDx event in Galway this decade, we have to start from scratch, recruiting our volunteers, putting the organizational structure in place. I'm hoping that this event will lay the foundations and structure for TEDxGalway to have many future events.
Q.3. What kind of speakers are you hoping to invite and why?
A.3. We have an open structure and topics can really be anything! As long as an innovative and creative idea is brought to the fore that can intrigue and is palatable for a global audience. I believe there's some amazing people in Ireland with amazing stories and experience and it's a completely untapped resource by much of our media and I'm hoping TEDxGalway can contribute to bringing the media into a stronger citizen focus as opposed to the ideas of celebrity.
Q.4. What message would you like audience members to take from the event?
A.4. Well firstly, I'd love them to be entertained. I believe TED's successes are due to the fact, people broaden their horizons and actually learn something when they sit down to events and videos. One of our taglines for the event is 'Galway Inspires' and I'd love to think our attendees will be inspired to take action on what they are passionate about and be more formidable and active citizens.
Q.5. With the anniversary of the 1916 Rising coming up how important are events like this to both reflect and propel Ireland forward?
A.5 The 100th anniversary of the 1916 rising is something Irish people feel quite strongly about. There's a pride in being Irish and standing up for what you believe in. I hope TEDxGalway will contribute to Irish people doc using this social consciousness on demanding positive change within our society. TEDxGalway ultimately has a small part to play but like the rising, it only takes a spark!
