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).

The Bridgewater Hall
Lower Mosley Street
Manchester, Manchester, M2 3WS
United Kingdom

Aaron Calvert

Aaron Calvert is an acclaimed mind reader, hypnotist, and former doctor who seamlessly blends psychology, entertainment, and the art of influence. With a deep understanding of human behavior and a captivating stage presence, Aaron has mesmerized audiences across the UK. His thought-provoking and unforgettable performances challenge perceptions, unlocking the hidden potential of the mind and revealing the power behind the choices we make.

Aled Roberts

Aled Roberts is a scientist who specialises at the interface of Materials Science and Biology. Constrained by the COVID-19 lockdown, Aled set up his own basement laboratory to pursue his experiments. Here, he developed several unorthodox solutions to the challenge of Lunar and Martian construction by exploiting human biology, before translating his insights to solve practical challenges on Earth relating to sustainable construction. Previously a researcher at the University of Manchester and the Future Biomanufacturing Research Hub, Aled recently setup Deakin Bio as a startup company to develop the commercial potential of his bioengineering research. He earned his PhD in Materials Chemistry from Liverpool University.

Amie McNee

Amie McNee is an author, artist, and speaker dedicated to helping creatives build meaningful, fulfilling lives. Best known for her highly successful Instagram account, @InspiredtoWrite, and The Unpublished Podcast, Amie seeks to help people find and nurture their creative ambitions. Amie’s latest book, We Need Your Art, was published by Penguin in March 2025. Bestselling author Matt Haig described her new book as “a manifesto for anyone who wants to make art of any kind. A book against the insecurity and self-doubt that can stop us from doing what we love. An inspiring read and a battle-cry for the creative spirit. A joy."

Carl Miller

Carl Miller explores the mysteries and dangers of the digital age. He founded the Centre for the Analysis of Social Media at Demos and is the author of the prize-winning 2018 book The Death of the Gods: The New Global Power Grab published by Penguin. He is also the host of the international hit podcast Kill List which was named the No 1 podcast of 2024 by The Guardian newspaper.

Chris Boardman

Chris Boardman was appointed as National Active Travel Commissioner in June 2022 by the Transport Secretary. Before this Chris was Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester and the first ever Greater Manchester Cycling and Walking Commissioner. A former professional cyclist, Chris won a gold medal in the individual pursuit at the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games. Chris launched his own range of bikes, BOARDMAN Bikes, in 2007 and is the company’s chairman. Chris is also Chair of Sport England and a prominent broadcaster for BBC and ITV.

Dr Charlotte Armitage

Dr Charlotte Armitage is a psychologist and psychotherapist who specialises in the media, specifically looking at how smart device use impacts child development. She is the author of Generation Zombie: How devices are harming your children and what you can do about it and she also launched National Awareness Day: ’No Phones at Home Day’ in 2022 which encourages people to put the phone down for the third Saturday in January to focus on connecting with each other in real life. In addition, Charlotte is the founder of the ‘Be Device Wise’ programme, a programme which she designed to be delivered to schools throughout the UK to educate teachers, parents and pupils about the impact that using devices is having on their health and wellbeing, to enable them to make healthier choices. This programme has been commissioned by public health in various regions of the UK and Charlotte is working in partnership with councils and local authorities to integrate education on the matter into the existing curriculum. Charlotte is also a duty of care psychologist and works on high profile TV and podcast productions such as Big Brother, Celebs Go Dating, TOWIE, Tsunami, Black Widow among many others.

Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas

Dr Ilyena Hirskyj-Douglas is a computer scientist and Lecturer at the University of Glasgow who creates interactive computer interfaces that enable animals to access the Internet, connect with each other, and control aspects of their environment. Pioneering the field of animal-computer interaction, her research explores how we can design technologies that not only serve animals but also reveal profound insights into their behaviour and cognition. Her work is regularly featured in the media, including The New York Times, New Scientist, and a Netflix documentary, bridging the worlds of technology and animal welfare.

Javeno McLean

Javeno McLean is an award-winning fitness coach, known for his vibrant personality, motivational coaching style, and commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive environment. Based in the UK, Javeno is celebrated for his work with diverse groups, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with chronic health conditions. Through innovative training methods and an infectious enthusiasm for life, Javeno not only helps clients achieve their fitness goals but also fosters confidence and community.

Joshua Fletcher

Joshua Fletcher is a psychotherapist, best-selling author, and renowned mental health advocate specializing in anxiety disorders. Having personally experienced the challenges of panic disorder, generalized anxiety, and OCD, Joshua brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal understanding to his work. Known to his global audience as “Anxiety Josh,” he uses relatable humor, evidence-based strategies, and compassionate storytelling to help others overcome their mental health struggles. Through his books, engaging talks, and the widely acclaimed Disordered podcast, Joshua inspires individuals to take charge of their mental well-being with knowledge, hope, and practical tools.

Kiran Morjaria

Dr Kiran Morjaria is a GP, comedian, and TV medical expert perhaps best known for his regular appearances on BBC Morning Live, where he combines his medical expertise with humour to make health topics engaging and relatable. In addition, Kiran shares his comedic and medical insights across multiple social platforms and on standup stages across the country.

Pam Warhurst

Pam Warhurst was formerly Leader of Calderdale Council, chair of an NHS trust, deputy chair of The Countryside Agency, and Chair of the Forestry Commission. Today she is best known as the co-founder of Incredible Edible, an movement that is helping rebuild local communities through the reclamation of public land for food and nature . In a world crying out for positive change and leadership we believe Pam’s story contains valuable lessons for anyone trying to make things happen even if you’re starting with nothing more than a good idea.

Simona Francese

Simona Francese is Professor of Forensic and Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry at Sheffield Hallam University (SHU), UK. She is the Lead of the Sheffield Multi-Modal Imaging Centre and Head of the Centre for Mass Spectrometry Imaging at SHU. Simona is an expert in the development of MALDI MS Imaging applications and has pioneered its development for the analysis of latent fingermarks and blood to profile criminals. More recently she has engaged in research at the interface between forensics and clinical diagnostics using blood and sweat in fingertip smears to detect cancer and other pathologies. She has generated a combined total of 97 publications and has been awarded a total of > £1.8m worth of research grants/contracts to date. Her research has been implemented in police casework in UK and Europe and has been partly funded by the Home Office, West Yorkshire Police and The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, UK. Simona regularly seeks to communicate her work to wider audience including a presentation at the main TED Conference in Vancouver in 2018 and at the Royal Institution of Great Britain in 2023 on molecular fingerprinting.

Simona Francese

Simona Francese is Professor of Forensic and Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry at Sheffield Hallam University (SHU), UK. She is the Lead of the Sheffield Multi-Modal Imaging Centre and Head of the Centre for Mass Spectrometry Imaging at SHU. Simona is an expert in the development of MALDI MS Imaging applications and has pioneered its development for the analysis of latent fingermarks and blood to profile criminals. More recently she has engaged in research at the interface between forensics and clinical diagnostics using blood and sweat in fingertip smears to detect cancer and other pathologies. She has generated a combined total of 97 publications and has been awarded a total of > £1.8m worth of research grants/contracts to date. Her research has been implemented in police casework in UK and Europe and has been partly funded by the Home Office, West Yorkshire Police and The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, UK. Simona regularly seeks to communicate her work to wider audience including a presentation at the main TED Conference in Vancouver in 2018 and at the Royal Institution of Great Britain in 2023 on molecular fingerprinting.