TEDx Table Mountain – A Fascinating Experience

Last week I attended my first ever TEDx event, at the most recent TEDx Table Mountain.

As a speaker I was fascinated by a number of things: the speech topics, the speaking styles and techniques used, and what the audience reacted most favourably to. As an inspirational speaker, I have been toying with the idea of developing a presentation that could be used at a TEDx event, so my fascination was not without a purpose.

Certain of the aspects of the TEDx process are very professionally done – I chatted to Aletta Rochat, one of the speech coaches for the event, and she told me a little about the process the coaches follow when working with the speakers. I found the resulting presentations interesting and derived several messages from what was said.

I was less impressed that the event went so far overtime. I understand that TEDx is not just about the speakers, but did not feel that all of “the extras” added value to the evening. I felt the lack of effective time management detracted from the professionalism. Nor was I the only one who felt that way – I observed a number of people leaving before the end.

Overall, I enjoyed the experience and will definitely do some research to find out when the next TEDx events are taking place in Cape Town, and what it takes to apply to speak.

Who knows, maybe one day it will be my turn to try and change the world at a TEDx event…

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *