In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Merivale Lane Theatre
10 Merivale Lane
Christchurch, Canterbury, 8014
New Zealand

Becky Watson

Becky Watson has a passion for all things creative. Combine that with a massive heart for Christchurch and you’ve got someone who can make something happen out of a pile of rubble. Working as a creative lead volunteer for the Bounce.org.nz (New Zealand Red Cross), sees her developing and using these skills on a daily basis.

Brando Yelavich

Brando Yelavich was 19 when he started out on his quest to become the first person to walk the entire coastline of New Zealand. 600 days and 8000km of self-propelled travel later, he made it (after nearly drowning). Living off 'the land, the sea and the kindness of others', Brando has seen our environment in a way few have been able to glimpse. His adventures were published in a book bearing his nickname: "Wildboy".

Dr Tom Mulholland

Dr Tom is an Emergency Department Doctor and GP, with 25 years' experience in New Zealand. Seeing a great deal of preventable conditions in this time prompted him to hit the road around the country to promote a happier, healthier Aotearoa. Currently Tom is travelling between communities in his retro ambulance, and intends it to be placed firmly at the top of the cliff, not the bottom.

James Adams

As a member of Christchurch Youth Council, an ardent submissions writer and activist for the voice of the people, James believes that whilst there are currently a whole heap of challenges in Christchurch, there are also opportunities.

Kotte Aguilar

A proud 'Chi-wi' (Chilean Kiwi), Kotte has brought her special blend of yoga and fun to the young people of Christchurch, with great success. Her talent lies in being able to bring yoga to untapped audiences by teaching in different ways. While you are just waking up, Kotte is leading her young yogis at a local secure youth unit.

Sophie Rea

Poet, youth worker and self-described lazy feminist, Sophie Rea spends time working for Q-topia (an incredible organization that supports queer youth in Ōtautahi, Aotearoa), writing, networking, crafting and performing. Sophie’s passion for words, stories and the connections between communities and their creative spaces is equal to her ability with a crochet hook. Having won the national Rising Voices Youth Poetry Slam in 2015, Sophie now plans to publish a book of their writing and (alongside other local writers) host a monthly "open-mic" night to showcase the work of other young poets.