Theme: De-Coded

In 2024, TEDx Doncaster returns with an exhilarating theme, "Decoded." This theme is a call to explore the hidden meanings, unravel the complexities, and unlock the secrets that shape our world. From deciphering the mysteries of technology to understanding the enigma of human behaviour, "Decoded" invites us to uncover the profound truths that often lie beneath the surface. It's about breaking down barriers, revealing the underlying patterns, and shedding light on the obscured aspects of our existence. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, where knowledge becomes the key to understanding our rapidly changing world.

In the spirit of celebrating the talents within Doncaster, the event will feature live entertainment from some of the region's most gifted performers. From captivating musical acts to thought-provoking art installations, Doncastrian artists will take centre stage, providing a local flavour to this global event.

TEDx Doncaster 2024 promises to be a day of intellectual stimulation, inspiration, and entertainment, all set against the backdrop of the "Decoded" theme. Mark your calendar for July 21st, 2024, at the CAST Theatre in Doncaster, and be prepared to unlock the secrets of our ever-evolving world.

CAST Theatre
Sir Nigel Gresley Square
Waterdale
Doncaster, Doncaster, DN1 3BU
United Kingdom

Dr Simon Duffy

Social Activist

Dr Simon Duffy is a philosopher and social activist, based in Sheffield. He has written several books, most recently Everyday Citizenship, with Wendy Perez, a friend and colleague with learning disabilities. Simon believes that everybody matters and that we need to create a world of citizenship to tackle the big problems of today. He is Director of the Citizen Network Research, President of Citizen Network Coop and Chair of Citizen’s Basic Income Trust. In 2008 he was awarded the RSA’s Prince Albert Medal for inventing personal budgets in social care. He has worked closely with Doncaster’s People-Focused Group since its beginning and is involved in a wide range of projects to reform democracy, the economy and public services.

Emma McSkelly

Founder and CEO

Hailing from the vibrant city of Doncaster, Emma McSkelly stands as a testament to the transformative power of local entrepreneurship and global impact. As the co-founder and CEO of NCM, Emma's journey is not just one of business success, but also of reshaping the very landscape of commerce with a keen focus on sustainability and social responsibility. From its modest beginnings in 2012, with just two employees, one laptop, and a shared mobile phone, NCM has burgeoned into a pioneering force in the industry. Emma's relentless pursuit of innovation, coupled with her unwavering commitment to ethical practices, has propelled NCM to remarkable heights. In the face of challenges such as the Coronavirus pandemic, Emma's leadership has steered NCM towards record growth, doubling revenue year-on-year and expanding its workforce substantially.

Estelle Pearce

Digital Artist / Digital Fashion Designer / Educator

As a trailblazing digital artist, Estelle epitomizes innovation and sustainability in the ever-evolving realm of art and design. With a master's degree and over 15 years of industry experience, Estelle's journey reflects a profound commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining artistic expression. When the pandemic disrupted traditional artistic practices, Estelle seized the opportunity to pivot towards digital art, a decision that not only sustained her workflow but also ignited a passion for sustainable solutions. Embracing 3D tools and digital developments, she found newfound creative freedom, unfettered by concerns of excess waste. Estelle's visionary work has graced diverse platforms, from static installations to virtual environments and prestigious publications. Estelle's contributions to Digital Fashion Week in New York and London have captivated audiences, showcasing collections and animations that seamlessly blend artistry with technological prowess.

Freddie Jackson

Digital Marketeer

Freddie Jackson, a seasoned digital marketer with over 6 years of experience, delves into the intricacies of interpersonal interactions in the digital realm to promote mental well-being. Drawing from his expertise in consumer psychology and a passion for sustainability, Freddie explores the nexus between environmental consciousness, technology, and mental health, offering invaluable insights for navigating the digital landscape with mindfulness and purpose. Armed with a degree from the University of Derby and honed skills in consumer psychology, Freddie Jackson brings a unique perspective to the stage. Through his TEDx talk, Freddie aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions that prioritize both personal well-being and our planet's sustainability, catalysing global change.

Gemma Peebles

Founder and Principle Harrison College

Gemma Peebles is the founder, CEO and top rhino of Harrison College. Throughout her career in education, she has worked with young people to achieve their dreams and aspirations. She has always focused on the right person, the right course and the right place. The motto of Harrison College is ‘Your Future, Your Choice’. Gemma and her team encourage all young people to take ownership of their future and make choices that will start them on their journey. Gemma is also working with the business community both as a patron and non-executive board member of Doncaster Chamber of Commerce to encourage employers to tap into hidden talent, those currently not in work that are neurodiverse. Gemma also sits on the SYSAB and Education Advisory Board for Skills Street.

Heather Elkington

Leadership Consultant

Between the ages of 21-26, Heather's career journey saw her go from Assistant Manager in Harrods to scaling a company to £2m+ revenue, exiting for 8 figures and then moving into a Director role at a FTSE100 Corporate with 11,000 employees managing five different teams. Heather has now left the corporate world to teach new managers across the globe the unique frameworks and systems she used to have all these huge career and business successes in her 20s. Heather is a public speaker, online educator and sought-after trainer in leadership and people excellence.

Laurente Kyte

Music Producer

Laurente Kyte, a dynamic force in the music industry, seamlessly transitions from music producer to rapper with finesse. Born in Luton but moulded by the streets of Doncaster during his formative years, Laurente's artistry reflects the diverse influences of his upbringing. With a knack for crafting melodic hooks, delivering hard-hitting bars, and producing infectious beats, Laurente has captured the attention of thousands of fans across social media and streaming platforms within just two years of pursuing his musical passions. His electrifying performances at renowned venues such as The Leadmill, Artbomb 2022, and Tramlines Festival have solidified his status as a rising star in the industry. As a university dropout, Laurente embodies the ethos of carving out one's own path despite societal norms or expectations. Laurente advocates for the power of self-determination and perseverance in the face of doubt or obstacles.

Sally Jameson

Prison Officer and Political Activist

Born and raised in the heart of Doncaster, Sally Jameson embodies the spirit of her city resilient, passionate, and committed to positive change. As a dedicated prison officer and long-time Labour campaigner, Sally has tirelessly advocated for the betterment of her community for over a decade. Sally's journey into politics began 12 years ago when she became a fervent supporter of the Labour Party. Her dedication and leadership skills soon caught the attention of Dame Rosie Winterton, for whom Sally served as an agent, fostering a deep understanding of the local political landscape. Now, with Dame Rosie Winterton's impending retirement from the role of MP and Deputy Speaker, Sally is standing to succeed Dame Rosie at the next election. Sally's vision for Doncaster is rooted in the principles of social justice, economic prosperity, and community empowerment.

Steve Quayle

Executive Coach

With nearly four decades of experience in direct sales and over twenty years of collaborating with the world's leading personal development and mindset experts, Steve's mission is to help teams reach their highest levels of peak performance and unlock their true potential. As a dynamic sales trainer and communication expert, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insights to the table. His training methods are not just enlightening; they're highly effective, yielding tangible results for teams across various industries. Steve's approach is hands-on and experiential. He doesn't just talk the talk; he walks the walk. Whether it's demonstrating sales techniques in real-time or providing personalized coaching, Steve's expertise shines through, empowering teams to sell more and be more.

Tasmiha Arif

Senior Information Security Analyst

Taz is a professional in Cyber Security with almost ten years’ of experience with a Master Degree in Information Technology. Taz is committed to delivering high-quality work and achieving results that defend and protect Kinaxis and believes that greater collaboration within the organization is key to protection from cyber adversaries. Prior to Kinaxis, Taz led a range of government wide initiatives in the Cyber Security space. At Kinaxis, she's initiated and driven forward the Threat Intelligence capability used to guide Kinaxis and protecting our customers. Now based in the City of Manchester Taz says working in a global organisation brings real excitement in adapting and understanding different cultures and communities.

Terry Galloway

Co-founder Care Leaver Local Offer

Terry Galloway's journey from a childhood marked by over a hundred transitions in and out of care to becoming a relentless advocate for care experience equality is nothing short of inspiring. Born and raised in Nottingham, Terry's determination to effect change stems from a deeply personal promise made to his sister Hazel, who tragically passed away after a life similarly shaped by the care system. "I was at a funeral with my sister, and she was basically telling me that she felt like she'd be next. And when your sister says something like that to you, what do you say?" Terry reflects. "So I spent most of that night trying to persuade her and trying to encourage her. And the only thing I could think of was: 'You know what? We've been through all this trauma. Let's try and change the system.' So we made that promise that night." Driven by his sister's memory, Terry has embarked on a relentless quest for justice and equality within the care system.

Warren Fearn

Associate Professor - York St John University

Warren began his career as a ‘Virtual Set Designer’ developing 3D virtual environments for television – this included working on the first children’s interactive television programme, BamZooki. Over time, he transferred into the BBC 3DFX department concentrating on 3D motion graphics and art direction while achieving several PROMAX awards and being nominated for an Emmy Award. After several years, he set up his own 3D creative company (WAK Studios) working on commercials and visualisations for companies such as WWF, SKY, FELLOWES, NHS and many more. During this period, he established WAK Educate working alongside education to teach both primary and secondary schools new forms of 3D technologies and served as a Member of the Secondary School Education Panel for Autodesk producing online STEAM curriculum for schools in the USA and UK. Warren now lectures at York St John University and is the programme leader for all postgraduate design courses.