TEDxGainesville returns with third annual event

TEDxGainesville will premiere its third annual presentation around the theme of “Roots” on Saturday, Jan. 7, at the Wooly Event Hall.

Doors open at 4 p.m. at the 20 North Main St. location.

“TEDx events use themes as a means to individualize and curate their content,” Tom Puketza, lead organizer and license holder of the Gainesville event, said in a press release. “Our first year was ‘Courageous Conversations.’ After COVID hit and ruined everything, discussing ‘Grit’ seemed only appropriate. Now that we’re finally moving forward, ‘Roots’ just felt right: let’s look under the surface…examine foundations and what lies beneath.”

TED talks gave birth to the concepts of “thought leaders” and the meme “thank you for coming to my TED talk.” By licensing the concept, such events occur worldwide and continue to be a popular attraction.

Speakers for TedxGainesville 2023 include a mix of local and national experts and coaches in human, performance, teaching, bridge-building, self-advocacy, business, equal justice, leadership, and love life.

Puketza assumed the role of lead organizer from the event’s originator, Dante Buckley, and found the enthusiasm for the event remains strong.

“The TED organization initially limits audience capacity to 100 attendees—and we’ll sell out this year,” Puketza said. “Once an organizer meets certain requirements, the 100-attendee limit is lifted. Next year we can be as large as we want to be. This will completely change the event. Sponsorship opportunities will explode. Audience size will be an order of magnitude higher. The possibilities are really exciting.” Tickets can be purchased on the TEDxGNV website. Tickets are $20 for students, $35 for general admission, and $70 for VIP tickets.

VIP tickets provide access to a post-show reception with the speakers.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Puketza at 215-313-7028 or TEDxGainesville@gmail.com.