As the curtain falls on TEDxNorthwich 2024, we look back on an extraordinary journey that brought together a community of passionate individuals, each with an idea worth sharing. The journey began back in October, when the curation team—Catherine, Ashley, Sharon, and Roy—set out to uncover the most inspirational ideas that could light up the stage. From a sea of submissions, a shortlist was crafted, and speakers were invited to embark on the TEDxNorthwich Speaker Program, which started in February with the first face-to-face rehearsal.
The program was more than just a series of rehearsals; it was a transformative experience for the speakers, some of whom had never stepped onto a stage before. With the guidance of Catherine, Ashley, and Alison, each speaker honed their ideas, peeling back the layers to find the core message that would resonate with the audience. Over five months, a mix of in-person and Zoom rehearsals allowed the speakers to refine their delivery, growing in confidence and clarity with each session.
As the event drew closer, the energy began to build. The Grange Theatre became the hub of activity, with the dress rehearsal and tech run-throughs making the impending event feel real. Behind the scenes, the team was in full swing, the stage was meticulously set by Adrian and Fin, and final preparations were made.
The night before the event, the tech team including Katherine, James, and Joe worked late into the night, setting up the equipment that would capture the heart and soul of TEDxNorthwich 2024.
On the morning of Saturday, July 6th, the theatre was transformed into a hive of activity. The TEDxNorthwich spirit was palpable as speakers and volunteers filled every corner of the venue. The speakers, each navigating their own mix of excitement and nerves, found support from Ashley and in one another as they prepared for their final moments of rehearsal. The Scottish humour of Sandra, Frances, and Louise added a touch of levity to the day, as they checked off every item on the ‘to do’ list with ease and fun. Dave, ever the dedicated team member, busied himself creating a celebratory arch of red and black balloons, generously donated by Lisa KD, with the girls.
As guests began to arrive, the warm welcome from Sue and Kim S set the tone for the evening. Holly’s beautiful music filled the entrance, guiding attendees to their seats where Aidan, Natalie, and Sally ensuring everyone was comfortable. Backstage, the team confirmed their positions—Karl ready to capture action shots with his camera; Catherine, Janet, Erin, Nicola, Eins, Richard, William, Ashley, Katherine and the production team ready to go. With everything in place, the countdown began.
The evening kicked off with host Catherine receiving a rapturous applause, and from that moment, the energy in the room was electric. The speakers took to the stage, one by one, sharing ideas that could change everything for someone, somewhere. Braydon Bent opened the night with his talk on how football bridges communities, followed by Nicola Marshall’s poignant exploration of grief and the power of collective mourning. Jojo Bailey challenged societal norms around alcohol, and Kirsty James closed the first half with an inspiring talk on the power of collective achievement.
During the interval, guests enjoyed refreshments, while St. Nicholas RC High School Choir prepared to take the stage. Their performance opened the second half with a harmonious blend of young voices, setting the stage for the final speakers. Sam Warburton encouraged everyone to find their inner artist, Jake Richings spoke passionately about engaging young people in careers education, and Andreia Trigo shared her insights on how AI could improve global fertility. Lucy McLaren challenged perceptions around employment and Down syndrome, and Leon Lloyd brought the evening to a close with a powerful talk on the hidden heroes of teamwork.
As the audience gave a standing ovation, the speakers and the entire TEDxNorthwich team were celebrated for their hard work and dedication. Aiden, Afiya, Nicola and Sally handed out mini torch keyrings, gifted by Leon, to shine a light on all hidden heroes. The room was in that instant filled with little spotlights which waas magical.
The evening ended with a joyful celebration, as everyone gathered to share delicious food, made by Kath. Laughter, conversation and the sense of accomplishment that comes from being part of something truly special could be felt throughout.
Huge thanks to our dedicated team of volunteers who made TEDxNorthwich 2024 possible. This year our team, who are all volunteers, totalled 36!!
36 people who gave their time, energy, skills and expertise so generously and for that we are truly grateful.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts Afiya, Sharon, Katherine, James, Abby, Janet, Adrian, Eins, Nicola, Srijan, Aidan, Natalie, Sally, Sandra, Frances, Louise C, William, Richard, Dave, Erin, Fin, Adam, Karl, Sue, Kim S, Kath, Dave, Sarah, Louise J, Tom, Tori, Joe, Sandra C, Kim G, Ashley, Catherine.
Thank you to our incredible partners who have also shared their expertise so selflessly to enable us to maintain our high TEDx standards.
They include:
EngageWeb for our fabulous website
Catherine Sandland – Curation, Speaker Coaching, Host
The Resilient Kid – Curation, Coaching and Wellbeing
Movement & Light Films for all production and video outcomes
The Social Giraffe – Social Media Strategy
Salad Bomb – Branding & Marketing
She Leads for Legacy – Curation and Due Diligence
Northern Powerhouse Media – for official photgraphs
Karl Brookes Photography – official photographs
Practical Inspiration Publishing – Speaker Support
Cheshire Life
Radio Northwich
The Grange Theatre – Venue, Production
Layers Treats – Treats
The post-event weeks have been filled with the final touches—editing videos and photos, and sharing the talks with the wider TEDx community. We are delighted that all the talks have now been published on TEDx’s YouTube platform, where they are available to spark conversations and inspire change.
While the curtain has closed on TEDxNorthwich 2024, the work behind the scenes for 2025 has already begun. We invite you to stay connected with us as we continue this journey of sharing ideas worth spreading.
