Curated by licence holder Annelies James of 22Midnight, TEDxGosport was a volunteer-led, not-for-profit passion project created to celebrate the people, ideas, and creativity that make Gosport unique.
Adventure Psychologist Paula Reid, whose talk “We Need More Heroes” explored courage and community, reflected: “The idea of bringing TEDx to Gosport was inspired, and the result surpassed my expectations. It was a powerful demonstration of how faith, courage, inspiration, and hard work can come together to uplift an entire community.”
Duke Harrison-Hunter, creative professional and advocate for youth voice, spoke on “Very Seen and Never Heard”, and said: “For me, TEDxGosport was about the legacy I want to leave for my daughter, to show her that there is power in vulnerability, that dreams can come true, and that all voices can be heard.
"The rehearsal process and coaching were brilliant and supportive. It helped me present professionally and become aware of the flaws I didn’t know I had.”
Local community champion Lesley Meenaghan, who spoke on poverty and encouraged the community to “remove the cloak of shame and Turn Left,” said: “Taking part in TEDxGosport was an unforgettable experience, from applying and auditioning to stepping on the stage.
"The bond between all the speakers and the TEDxGosport team was inspiring. The team are all volunteers, and this would not have happened without them and the wonderful licence holder and curator, Annelies James. There is so much talent, heart, and pride in our hometown. TEDxGosport was not just an event, it was a celebration of the Gosport community.”
Sarah Donaghy delivered "The Running Community Supporting the Local Community: The Tale of the Food Bank Run,” sharing how personal loss motivated her to lead a community initiative that has now gained global traction.
She said: “To do a TEDx talk was a bucket list dream, and it didn’t disappoint. I am forever changed by the experience of amazing coaching, friendships formed, and of course delivering a talk dear to my heart. TEDxGosport is the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.”
Jess Shailes offered a TEDxGosport talk on “The Story Behind Why We Buy”, which hilariously resonated with the audience who recognised their own buying behaviours. Jess added: “I’d dreamt of doing TEDx for most of my career and TEDxGosport exceeded all expectations. I not only got to stretch myself with a new skillset and share an idea close to my heart, but I also met some wildly talented and supportive people along the way. It’s been nothing short of life-changing.”
TEDxGosport Speaking Coach Adele Deasy, a former TEDxSouthampton speaker, said: “It was such a privilege to be part of the TEDxGosport team, bringing real people with real ideas to the stage, sharing something that could change how we think, live, or lead. That’s the kind of ripple effect this town is ready for.”
Reflecting on the event, Annelies James said: “This event marked a significant moment for Gosport, a real shift in how the town sees itself. The feedback from attendees was incredible; people were visibly moved, crying, laughing, and standing to applaud.
"This is the event I always wanted to curate for my town, and I’m so grateful to the team who made it a reality. There’s clearly an appetite for more, so keep an eye on the TEDxGosport social channels for details of our 2026 event.”
The enthusiasm for TEDxGosport was evident from the outset: 109 people applied to speak, 37 were auditioned, and 14 were selected for the inaugural event. Local businesses also rallied behind the project, with sponsorship and support from Hampshire Cultural Trust, Easy Drive Hire, Ware Wolf Creative, Tidal Studios, Nettl of Fareham, Quay West, 32 Events, and others.
TEDxGosport has set a new benchmark for community collaboration and storytelling in the town, an event that celebrated not only ideas worth spreading but also a community worth believing in.
About TEDx, x = independently organised event
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized. (Subject to certain rules and regulations)
5. Contributed
Adele Deasy (Speaking Coach), Annelies James (Curator), Carl Ware (Warewolf Creative) and Joe Rowlands (Tidal Studio) Photo: Submitted
