TEDx coming to Malop Street

THE lineup for the first TEDxMalopSt has been revealed, with speakers to inspire the Geelong community to take bold actions toward positive change.

Themed “The Matter of Being”, the independently organised TEDx event will be held at Salvation Army Geelong in Malop Street this Thursday, October 24.

The audience of 100 will include working professionals, students, academics, community leaders, and lifelong learners across communities.

“I have always loved TED Talks and dreamed of introducing the TEDx experience to the Geelong community,” TEDxMalopSt lead organiser Stacy Doan said.

“It truly means a lot to me to finally be able to make it happen.

“Over the past months, our team has identified charismatic speakers with diverse experiences and backgrounds who can share unique stories with the audience.”

The event aims to be a platform that connects people from all walks of life and sparks a shared exploration of inspiring ideas.

“In literature, the Matter of Being explores identity, existence, and consciousness,” Ms Doan said.

“Our intention with the event is to encourage a deeper reflection on personal identity, life’s purpose, and the presence of ‘being’ in the universe.”

TEDxMalopSt will feature five speakers, a drum performance by a Surf Coast group, and a networking session.

The speakers are:

• Dr. Evan Center – An environmental research, strategy, and partnerships expert, Dr Center works with large corporations to drive net-zero and nature-positive practices that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He will discuss the role of an advocate and the importance of going beyond purchasing power to drive change
• Rhiannon Tracey – A motivational leader and the founder of a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to offering rehabilitation services for individuals with spinal cord injuries, Ms Tracey will share her resilient journey, focusing on the power of the human spirit in overcoming adversity and redefining one’s sense of self
• Roxie Bennett – A seasoned expert in strategic relationships and community engagement with a distinguished career in media, communications, and marketing, Ms Bennett will bring to the stage fresh perspectives on menopause that can strengthen both self-relationships and connections with loved ones
• Associate Professor Sophie Goldingay – A respected academic in social work, known for her groundbreaking work in alternative social development programs for neurodivergent youth, Professor Goldingay will share how creative programs for social work using the play-based approaches can foster a deeper sense of belonging and identity, particularly for marginalised individuals and communities, and
• Lina Chau Le – A distinguished lawyer with more than 16 years of international experience providing legal solutions across three continents, Ms Le will discuss the intersection of law, identity, and justice, highlighting how legal systems shape and reflect the human experience and our legal identity.

TEDxMalopSt tickets are $30 for students and $60 for working adults and seniors.

For more information, head to tedxmalopst.org or email [email protected]