Excitement is building in Enniskillen as the first TEDx event will soon take place on the banks of the Erne.

The event has been brought to Fermanagh for the first time by local woman Emma Weaver. Emma, who is based in Enniskillen, has previously given two TEDx talks.

In addition, she is also CEO of Mental Wealth International and is a published author.

Creating an opportunity

Speaking to The Impartial Reporter about her decision to bring TEDx to Enniskillen, Emma said: “I have always enjoyed TEDx talks and believe in the vision of creating the opportunity for people to talk about their idea worth spreading.

“I supported other TEDx events and realised then why not bring this global stage to Enniskillen creating opportunities for local people to get involved. I understand the power of a TED talk and the impact that it can have on so many.”

Explaining the origins of TED (an acronym for Technology, Entertainment and Design) and TEDx, Emma said: “TED is an annual event that brings together the world’s leading thinkers and doers to share ideas that matter in any discipline — technology, entertainment, design, science, humanities, business and development.”

She continued: “In the spirit of ‘ideas worth spreading’, TED has created TEDx, a program of local, self-organised events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience.

“At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connections. Our TEDx event is not organised by TED Conferences but is operated under a licence from TED.”

The Enniskillen event is taking place on June 9 at the Ardhowen and will host a variety of speakers which have been chosen by Emma. The event will be hosted by Sarah Travers.

Some of those who will speak include Laurie McCusker, Director of Fermanagh Trust, local nurse Wendy Shannon and Rosie Keaney, author and business coach.

Speaking about the process, she said: “Choosing speakers was a difficult task there was a lot of interest and so many discussions. I wanted to ensure the people were aligned to the theme ‘be the change’.

“There were a few people that I had in mind to speak, and others reached out to me and after some calls and meeting, I chose the speakers that we now have.”

The speakers who will address the event are both local and international, Emma said: “I have kept the speakers diverse, there is something for everyone and people are local as well as global with people flying in from Australia and Paris as well as mainland UK and all over Ireland.”

As the countdown begins, Emma is looking forward to the event. She said: “I am looking forward to seeing the event unfold on the day; the energy in the room will be amazing and the Ardhowen is a beautiful setting for this global stage.”

A highlight for Emma has been helping other people realise their goals. She said: “[A highlight has been] seeing people’s dreams realised, it is a bucket list tick for a lot of people.”

She added: “Getting to know the speakers and being part of their journey has been fantastic, bringing the famous red x around Enniskillen has been fun too. I am sure people have seen us about and wondered what was happening.”

Strong support

Thanking businesses who have helped with support for the event, Emma said: “The businesses that have got involved have been fantastic and building relationships with local people has been fab.”

She added: “If anyone wanted to get involved there are still some sponsorship opportunities available.”

For further information on TEDxEnniskillen, you can visit the TEDxEnniskillen Facebook page.