Theme: Illuminate

Prepare to step into the light with TEDxCanberra 2024, where our theme, ILLUMINATE, takes centre stage. In a world increasingly defined by complexity and change, this event will shine a beacon of clarity, knowledge and inspiration.

TEDxCanberra 2024: ILLUMINATE is designed to cast light on the issues that matter most. Our speakers will illuminate the path forward by unraveling the intricacies of diverse topics - from global challenges to local innovations, offering insights that will challenge your thinking and inspire action.

This event is for changemakers, visionaries and curious minds who understand that in a world filled with uncertainty, light is our greatest tool for transformation. TEDxCanberra 2024 will illuminate not just the ideas worth spreading, but the ideas worth acting upon - those that have the power to create tangible, positive impact in our world.

Since 2010, TEDxCanberra has brought together thousands of Canberrans to celebrate great ideas on science, technology, arts, culture and the humanities. In 2024, we will build on this history.

Join us on Friday 1 November at The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA), where we present a series of brilliant ideas and the people behind them.

Event registration includes access to all sessions, networking, activations + complimentary lunch and afternoon tea.

National Film and Sound Archive Arc Cinema
McCoy Circuit
ACTON, Australian Capital Territory, 2601
Australia

Dr Chloe Lim

Dr Chloe Lim is a scientist, balloon artist, author and entrepreneur. With a PhD in medical science, she worked for over 14 years in epigenetics research, before moving into a regulatory science role in government. She founded Giggly Wiggly Balloons in 2019 and showcased her balloon artistry on Channel 7’s ‘Blow Up.’ Merging balloon art and science, she launched Twistyfic – a science education company making learning science fun for kids using balloon storytelling. She was the 2023 Canberra Women in Business Micro Businesswoman of the Year and is a finalist for the 2024 Ausmumpreneur award in Multicultural Business Excellence.

Dr Kate Luckins

Dr Kate Luckins is a sustainable living educator and author of ‘Live More With Less; Upgrade your life without costing the Earth!’. She has a published MA of sustainable fashion, a PhD in sustainable living, and is the creator of The Clothing Exchange – a global clothes swapping movement. She has appeared across the media from the Financial Review to Mamamia, and was invited to speak at the UN Headquarters in Nairobi, and COP15. Kate’s helped thousands of people ditch their eco-guilt and reduce consumerism and waste via her educational platform Sustainable Lifestyle.

Karlie Noon

Karlie Alinta Noon is a proud Kamilaroi and Wiradjuri scientist bridging the worlds of Indigenous knowledge and astrophysics. With a background in mathematics and physics, she is currently pursuing a PhD in astrophysics at ANU and is an advocate for education and cultural heritage.

Liz Little

Liz Little is an accomplished and engaging facilitator with deep expertise in investigations, negotiations, risk management and supporting vulnerable people. She served as a NSW Police Officer for 25 years, working as a Detective Sergeant in Child Protection, as a police educator, and in roles supporting executive staff. Liz has been living with a rare, mucinous cancer that is slowly progressing. Her primary purpose, before she dies, is to advocate for the importance of living quality days, even when life fails. Liz’s skills and experience are supported by professional and academic qualifications – including an Honours degree in Psychology, Advanced Diploma of Public Safety (Police Investigations), and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.

Mark Crosweller

Dr Mark Crosweller is a national security and disaster management expert with 40 years of experience shaping policy at the highest levels. As a former advisor to the Prime Minister & Cabinet, he has led strategies on disaster risk reduction and resilience. Now the Founder of Ethical Intelligence and a Distinguished Advisor at ANU’s National Security College, Mark explores the ethical dimensions of leadership in times of crisis.

Mitch Porteous

Mitch Porteous is a business professional and community advocate based in Canberra. For the past decade, Mitch has delivered projects that activate public spaces with art, festivals and greening urban areas. Mitch also leads specialist teams to address future workforce needs at HorizonOne Recruitment, with expertise in the Australian space sector. A firm believer in the power of communities to drive innovation and economic growth, Mitch is passionate about empowering individuals to unlock Australia’s ‘people power’.

Neeman Piano Duo

Neeman Piano Duo captivates audiences with their impeccable musicianship and dynamic onstage chemistry. This husband-and-wife duo has enchanted listeners across America, Australia, and Asia, performing everything from classical masterpieces to Broadway hits and contemporary works. Renowned for their artistry, they have played with orchestras such as the National Capital Orchestra, and their recital on historical pianos was named one of the ‘Top five concerts of the year’ by The Canberra Times.

Sam Sly

Inspired by the funk and disco of the ’80s, Sam Sly's music bursts with infectious energy, funky basslines, and dance-worthy grooves. With a sound reminiscent of Benee and Remi Wolf, her performances are playful, bold, and impossible to resist.

Sita Sargeant

Sita Sargeant is a passionate storyteller and activist using tourism to champion gender equality. Frustrated by the erasure of women and queer people in history, she founded She Shapes History - a Canberra-based tour company offering engaging walking tours that spotlight their contributions.