TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, Design. It started out in California in 1984 as a conference bringing together people from these three worlds. Since then its scope has become ever broader.
The annual TED conference now brings together thinkers and doers who are challenged to give the talk of their lives — in 18 minutes. TED speakers include Bill Gates, Jane Goodall, Al Gore, Brian Greene and Malcolm Gladwell, as well as a host of people whose names you may not recognize, but who are changing the world we live in.
Technology is NOT the primary TED focus, and singers, poets, comedians, actors and teachers share the TED stage with scientists, physicians, inventors and aid workers. TED is for anyone with a powerful message worth spreading and a strong ability to impart it.
This year TED launched a new program, TEDx. In the spirit of “Ideas Worth Spreading,” TEDx is a program that enables people to enjoy a TED-like experience through events they themselves organize, design and host.
With assistance from TED, Asheville hosts its first-ever official TEDx event this summer.
Call for Speakers
TEDxAsheville seeks speakers to present at TEDxAsheville in late summer 2009. We want presenters who can inform and inspire, surprise and delight.
We seek not only respected experts, but also emerging artists, scientists, thinkers and convention-breaking mavericks. TEDxAsheville celebrates knowledge and skill, not local fame.
All talks will be videotaped; exceptional talks will be featured on TED.com. If anyone gets an offer to speak at an official TED event, the after-party beer’s on you at TEDxAsheville 2010.
While TEDx does not pay speakers (neither does TED) we are committed to creating an experience that’s fulfilling and beneficial for speakers and participants alike.
If you know someone who belongs on our roster of speakers, we want to hear from you! Please click below and tell us why this person is well matched to the TEDx stage.
Multiple nominations of the same person will not influence the selection team in any way. No need to stuff the ballot box.
Nominate a Speaker
Speaker Guidelines
1. Prospective speakers should have extremely strong presentational skills.
2. Prospective speakers should have an overarching message that transcends their field and involves the listener; they should have an “idea worth spreading.”
3. Ideally, prospective speakers have or are able to incorporate a strong visual element into their talk.
Recommending a TEDxAsheville Speaker – The Process
Nominate a Speaker
The TEDx Speakers Committee will review your application and contact you and your recommended speaker if we need further information. We regret cannot respond to every application.
TEDxAsheville Online
Facebook page: just search Facebook for TEDxAsheville
Twitter: follow @TEDxAvl
Contact
tedxavl [at] gmail.com
Sponsors, supporters and volunteers are needed for a participatory, pro-Asheville, homegrown, first-ever local TEDx event! To be part of the fun, send an email to TEDxAvl@gmail.com.
See you at TEDx Asheville 2009!
