TEDxOakParkWomen returns 01.06.22
THEME: WHAT NOW?
TEDxOakParkWomen 2021-22
Application Window Has Closed.
Thank you for your interest in becoming a TEDxOakPark Speaker. At this time, we have closed our call for submissions and are in the process of selecting and curating this season’s Talks. We encourage you to keep tabs on our website + social for our next opportunity to join the TEDx movement in Oak Park.
TEDWomen was created by TED to amplify marginalized voices. With this in mind, TEDxOakParkWomen is dedicated to sharing ideas that haven’t been heard from voices that aren’t heard from enough. Our stage welcomes all voices from all bodies and celebrates people of all genders, sexual orientations, race/ethnicity, faiths, political leanings, and any other group that may define how we show up in the world.
Potential TEDxOakPark Speakers should be prepared to:
Download + complete the Speaker Application + Content Submission form. Email your application and supplemental materials to us at Talks@TEDxOakParkWomen.com on or before August 23, 2021. The theme of the event is WHAT NOW? and your idea and submission must reflect that to be considered for this year’s event.
Prepare for your idea submission! Over the years TED has come up with a few dos and don’ts on how to give a great TED Talk. Start honing your idea and considering how your TEDx Talk will be unique and fresh. See “What is a TEDx Talk?” below for inspiration on what your Talk could look like.
Commit to memorizing your presentation + remember there is a time limit (12-15 minutes max). We’ll be there to help you along the way––with frequent check-ins, rehearsals and even professional coaching referrals if you need it!
In-person auditions for the shortlist of Speaker applicants will be held on 9/18 + 9/19. Note: Auditions may be held virtually depending on CDC guidelines. Auditions will be 10 minutes long: 7 minutes to present your idea and 3 minutes of Q&A. Your audition should:
a) sell us on your idea,
b) tell us why you and your idea belong on TEDxOakParkWomen’s stage, and
c) show your idea relates to our theme.
TEDxOakParkWomen Speakers will be selected by 9/19/21, but not revealed to the public until a later date. A working, detailed schedule is included in the application document, and key dates are outlined below.
What is a TEDx Talk?
The big idea: Talks that make one or two very strong points, and it’s important. Examples: Bryan Stevenson, Onora O'Neill, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
The tech demo: A look at some clever new invention the speaker was a part of creating. Examples: Tan Le, Markus Fischer, Raffaello D'Andrea
The performance: Music, dance, magic, or some other performance to captivate your audience. Examples: Usman Riaz + Preston Reed, Arthur Benjamin, Pilobolus
The artist’s statement: In these talks, artists showcase their art and explain the meaning and process behind what they create. Examples: Raghava KK, Liu Bolin, Aparna Rao
The “dazzle with wonder”: These talks are mainly about the amazement of science and discovery. Examples: Yoav Medan, Marcus Byrne, Janna Levin
The small idea: Talks not about one big, world-changing idea, but instead a very engaging take on an interesting topic. Examples: Mary Roach, Joe Smith, Charlie Todd
The “issue” talk: These talks expose your audience to an issue that they may not otherwise know much about. Examples: Rodrigo Canales, Lawrence Lessig, Rose George
KEY DATES:
8/23/21: Submissions Due
9/8: Shortlist Notified
9/18 + 9/19: In-Person Auditions for Shortlist
9/19: Final Speakers Notified
10/2: Two-hour meeting with Content Committee
October-November: Periodic Check-ins, Talk Revisions
December: Rehearsals
01/06/22: TEDxOPW EVENT!
What does a TEDxOPW event look like?
You can view select photos from our event in our gallery and even more photos on our Flickr site. And of course our previous TEDx Talks are available for you to view and share!
When can I buy tickets?
As we determine what ticket prices will be and when they will go on sale, Speakers will be among the first to know. If your Talk is not selected for this event, please be sure to join our email list and follow us on social to find out when tickets will be available!