Future Speakers Programme

Further information below for speakers from Schools and Colleges in the Ards and North Down area

What is the Programme About?

TEDx Bangor is a live, independently organised TEDx event bringing together powerful ideas, inspiring speakers and a local audience ready to think differently.

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday 9th October 2026

  • Location: Space Theatre, SERC Bangor Campus

  • Audience: 100-150 attendees

  • Speakers: 16 carefully selected voices

  • Theme: "Share Your Story"

We are inviting students to step forward and share an idea, experience or perspective that could inspire others through “sharing your story”.

The Opportunity

We are launching the TEDx Bangor Future Speakers Programme—a structured development journey designed to help students:

  • Turn their ideas into powerful messages

  • Build confidence in public speaking

  • Develop storytelling and communication skills

  • Deliver a live TEDx talk

Who is this for?

We are inviting applications from:

  • Students aged 15–18 (at time of event)

  • Individuals with a story, idea or message they want to share

  • Students interested in developing confidence and communication skills

No previous public speaking experience is required—just a willingness to step forward.

What Students Will Gain

This is more than a programme—it's a development experience.

Students will:

  • Strengthen university, CV and personal statements

  • Build confidence speaking in front of others

  • Learn how to structure and deliver impactful ideas

  • Receive coaching in communication and presentation skills

  • Gain a unique extra-curricular achievement

  • Have the opportunity to speak at a TEDx event

Coaching Delivered by Kevin O'Reilly

TEDx Speaker | TEDx Curator | Communications & Performance Coach

Helping students develop clarity, confidence and impact in how they communicate.

The Process

Phase 1 – Applications

Students submit:

  • An Application form which includes:

    • Personal details

    • A question explaining why they want to be a TEDx Speaker

    • A link to a 4-minute (max) video sharing their story or idea or talk

  • Deadline: 30 June 2026

Phase 2 – Shortlisting

The TEDx Bangor Selections Team will review the applications and applicants will be informed of their outcome by 14th July.

A maximum of 10 students will be invited for Final Selection at the end of August.

The student must prepare their 4 minute talk for the Final Selection stage.

Phase 3 - Final Selection

Students will perform their 4 minute talk to the TEDx Bangor Selections Team.

Each talk will be scored, feedback will be given, and the top talks (max. of 4 students) will be selected.

The finalists will be invited to share their talk and perform at TEDx Bangor on Friday 9th October 2026.

Phase 4 – TEDx Speaker Lab

The finalists will be invited to attend a development session for coaching and preparation ahead of the TEDx event where they will:

  • Learn how to craft a TEDx-style talk

  • Improve storytelling and structure

  • Develop confidence and delivery skills

Phase 5 – TEDx Bangor Event

Selected students will:

  • Deliver their talk live on the TEDx Bangor stage

  • Be part of an official TEDx event

  • Gain a once-in-a-lifetime experience

  • Have their Bio shared and be included in pre event communications & socials

  • Have their talk recorded and submitted to TED for sharing on the TED platform globally

How to Apply?

Students can apply by completing the application form and submitting their video.

  • Step 1: Record a 4-minute video on a phone or camera. You can present your talk or discuss what you plan to present in your talk, or give a small section of your talk. You can talk about anything related to “Share Your Story”, something that inspires you, a story you want to share, something people can learn from and relate to.

  • Step 2: Complete the application form which includes the video link

Submission Guidelines

  • Each video must be a maximum of 4 minutes

  • Clear audio (quiet room recommended)

  • Student must be visible speaking

  • No editing required

  • Focus on the TEDx Bangor theme: Share Your Story

TEDx Rules

Future Speakers must:

  • Have consent from the school/college to represent them at the TEDx event.

Finalist Speakers must also:

  • Complete a TED Release Form

  • Give consent for participating in the event, for media & recording, code of conduct and data protection Consent Form

Good Luck to all the Future Speakers applying!!

Any Questions - Contact us

  • "Most people never share their story. This is your chance."