Surrey, BC: This year’s Surrey-based TEDx event was an unparalleled success. COVID restrictions kept away an in-person audience, but the organizers made up for it by giving the world free online access to what has become BC’s premier TEDx event. And come they did. Over 3000 people logged into the event. On March 27, a worldwide audience spanning 30 countries enjoyed a full range of stimulating ideas, excitement, and entertainment.
The program featured 12 compelling talks, 4 high-quality musical interludes, a fun video introducing the City of Surrey to our international audience, and prize draws from local businesses worth $1,000. All of that was delivered in just over 3 jam-packed hours.
“It was an amazing experience for all of us involved!”, said Alan Warburton, Licensee and Curator for TEDxBearCreekPark. “Because of the pandemic, we had to make it a virtual event. That wasn’t our first choice, but it pushed us to be more creative and inventive. And to avoid that Zoomed-out feeling we’re all experiencing, we kept the event fun, fast-paced and full of learning. The response was overwhelmingly positive. I am so proud of all of our speakers and our volunteer teams.”
The event culminated after many months of planning and production. The process began last June with the hunt for outstanding ideas and speakers. Over 90 potential speakers engaged with TEDxBearCreekPark. By the end of 2020, the final list of speakers was narrowed to 12. Then began the intensive preparation period.
Although a live audience was not possible, the decision was made early on to give the speakers an authentic TEDx speaking experience. This included a rigorous coaching program, a true-to-life TEDx stage setting, and high-quality, multi-camera recording and video production. All of this made a huge difference for audience viewing and satisfaction.
According to Alan Warburton, “It’s our plan to return to the Bell Performing Arts Centre in 2022, bigger and better than ever. In fact, we’ve already started.”
About TEDxBearCreekPark: Building western Canada’s premier TEDx event is the driving passion of our leadership team. We may come from different backgrounds, but we’re united in our singular commitment to achieving this goal – discover and showcase the best ideas that have the potential to transform and lift our community.
Please visit TEDxBearCreekPark or contact the sender at [email protected]
