A DAY-long TEDx conference which will bring 12 top speakers to Southampton on Tuesday, October 12, is a sell-out.

TEDxSouthampton, taking place at the Harbour Hotel, has the theme of Human to Human Connection – devoted to embracing innovation, being connected and personal potential.

TEDx events are independently organised offshoots of the TED (Technology, Entertainment and Design) events which have attracted audiences of millions across the world to listen to “ideas worth spreading”.

Lee Peck, licence holder and co-curator of TEDxSouthampton, said: “With just a few days to go the team is absolutely buzzing and the reaction from the local community has been brilliant.”

Lead sponsor is Aura Technology, which proactive IT services for businesses. Performance sponsor is Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre and legal sponsor is law firm BDB Pitmans with offices in London, Cambridge, Reading and Southampton.

TEDxSouthampton co-curator Annelies James said: “Featuring 12 hand-picked speakers and performers, the event will seek to inspire and create discussion around all elements of our theme: Human to Human Connection. I think it’s fair to say the topics have never been more relevant as the pandemic engulfed the world. We’ll be asking some important questions like ‘how can we embrace our personal capital and be more vulnerable, showcasing our human side?’, ‘How can we challenge ourselves, overcome adversity and champion our own growth and potential?’ and ‘How can we recognise and tap into the greatness that comes from being human?’.

Originally planned for 2020, TEDxSouthampton was postponed to ensure the event would be run live.

Debbie Parsons-Randle, sales director of the venue sponsor, Southampton Harbour Hotel, said: “For me, the TEDx event is all about the audience and that real and spontaneous interaction. Over the years our venue has hosted some outstanding events and to be adding a TEDx event to that list is a real thrill.”

For more details visit https://tedxsoton.com/