TEDxChichester will take place this November, bringing a one-day celebration of creativity, courage and original thinking to the city. Organisers have now opened a call for local speakers to audition for a place on the TEDx stage.
TEDxChichester will centre on the theme, “Courage and Curiosity to Create”, exploring what happens when bravery and imagination come together. Creation is rarely straightforward. It requires risk, experimentation and the willingness to begin again. The theme invites speakers to share ideas that challenge assumptions, reveal new perspectives, or offer bold ways of seeing the world.
Talks may explore reinvention, leadership, community, science, storytelling, or the quiet acts of courage that shape everyday life. Speakers can come from any background, but each talk must focus on one clear idea worth spreading.
Laura Pauley, Curator of TEDxChichester, says: “Chichester has always been shaped by people who are brave enough to imagine something new. We’re looking for speakers who are ready to share the ideas that changed how they see the world. Whether you’re a first-time speaker or an experienced communicator, we want ideas that challenge thinking, spark curiosity, and connect with audiences in an engaging and memorable way.”
Ellie Jayne Booth, Co-Curator, says: “I’ve lived and worked in Chichester my whole life, and I know just how much talent exists here. Often quietly, and often under the radar. TEDxChichester is about giving those voices the confidence and the platform they deserve. We’re looking for speakers with ideas shaped by real experience, curiosity and conviction. People who care deeply about what they do and want to spark meaningful conversation.”
Speakers will receive professional training from Brighton-based performance and confidence coaches, Vanessa Cuddeford and Duncan Hardy. Vanessa has over 20 years’ broadcast experience as a producer, reporter, and news anchor with BBC, ITV, and NBC News. She has coached former TEDx speakers, keynote presenters, and speakers preparing to address the United Nations.
Duncan spent two decades as a Royal Marines Officer, leading in high-pressure environments, running the Royal Navy Press Office, and teaching strategic leadership at the UK Defence Academy. He has advised the United Nations, NATO, Ministry of Defence, and Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and now delivers leadership training programmes across the UK and internationally.
This year’s TEDxChichester is led by a new team, bringing fresh ideas and energy to the city’s TEDx programme. Speakers will be selected through a two-stage process, starting with an online video submission followed by an in-person audition for shortlisted applicants.
The theme is deeply rooted in Chichester’s own story, from its Roman city builders to the bold design of Chichester Festival Theatre’s stage and the iconic Cathedral spire, all of which were shaped by those who dared to imagine something new.
Applications are now open. Closing date is 12pm on Monday 30th March 2026. To apply, please visit: www.tedxchichester.co.uk/speakers
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