After a decade hiatus, TEDx is returning to Tampa, reigniting the region’s passion for innovation, thought leadership, and community engagement. Scheduled for May 2, the globally acclaimed TEDx experience will once again make Tampa Bay the epicenter of transformative ideas.
The Revival of TEDxTampa
The last time the city hosted major TEDx events was back in 2014, with TEDxTampaBay and TEDxPoynter. Although TEDxWestshore began in 2020, Tampa has awaited the return of a top-tier event for years. Now, thanks to Tampa natives and siblings, Harikrishna and Krishna Patel, this wait is finally over.
Having previously organized TED Talks at the University of South Florida, the Patel siblings gained extensive experience through TEDx events in Dhubi and Quatar. Their inspiring journey involved a gap year dedicated to building the first stone Hindu temple in the Middle East, shaping their vision and commitment to community enrichment.
“That’s kind of when we saw the large scale and the large impact that these TED Talks have in the community,” Krishna Patel reflected. “We were inspired to bring that same spirit of connection and innovation back home to Tampa.”
Building the Dream Team
After returning to Tampa in April 2024, the Patels quickly became official TEDx global curators by November. Currently, they lead an energetic team of 35 dedicated volunteers, predominantly younger than 25. The team tirelessly works to secure sponsorships, targeting a goal of $100,000 to bring the event to life, while curating a diverse lineup of compelling speakers.
Theme of the Year: “Lift as You Climb”
With the powerful theme “Lift as You Climb,” TEDxTampa emphasizes community-driven success and collective growth. “Our tagline is, ‘The story of your success is going to be written by the ones that you’ve lifted,’” said Harikrishna Patel. Although speakers receive no monetary compensation, their involvement signifies their profound commitment to leadership and Tampa’s flourishing community.
Spotlight on Speakers
The full speaker lineup remains under wraps, but confirmed appearances already promise a riveting experience. Half of the speakers hail directly from Tampa, including industry leaders like ReliaQuest CEO Brian Murphy and Tampa General Hospital CEO John Couris, both featured prominently in Tampa’s Power 100. Complementing local insights are nationally recognized figures like Morning Brew entrepreneur Dan Toomey and actor Tim DeKay.
An Evening of Inspiration and Networking
Hosted at the esteemed Straz Center for the Performing Arts, the four-hour event costs between $40 and $50, inclusive of a pre-event networking session at the Tampa Museum of Art. Organizers anticipate a full house, with a seating capacity of 1,000.
“It’s really all about the people. We want residents of all ages, from all different backgrounds, all different walks of life, to be present at this event,” stressed Harikrishna Patel.
Igniting Tampa’s Innovation Spirit
TEDx events mirror the influential model of TED’s non-profit gatherings—timed presentations crafted to ignite meaningful conversations and impactful actions. For the Patel siblings, TEDxTampa represents an opportunity to spotlight Tampa’s significant strides in technology and innovation.
“Tampa is at the epicenter of innovation. It’s at the center of technology, and it’s growing in every single way,” Krishna Patel emphasized. “Why not make this the annual event for all the changemakers of Tampa Bay to come under one roof for one night and inspire change in the community? That’s the end goal.”
Don’t miss your chance to experience a transformative evening that could change the way you think, live, and impact your community. Will you be part of Tampa’s next big idea?
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