Theme: Beyond Boundaries

TEDx returns to Newcastle for the first time since 2011 with TEDxCooksHill. The 2024 theme, 'beyond boundaries' aims to showcase innovative talent, insight and ideas that explore areas of humanity, technology, education and design that are evolving.

The Playhouse - Civic Theatre
375 Hunter St
Newcastle, New South Wales, 2300
Australia

Craig Smith

Educator

Craig Smith is an educator and researcher. For twenty years he has worked as an autism and neurodivergent education specialist, contributing to the development of kinder and more inclusive communities at home and abroad. Craig is deeply passionate about the role that emerging technologies can play in providing accessible solutions for all.

Dan Ballard

Communication Expert

Dan Ballard is a communication expert and devoted father with over 13 years of global experience. His dynamic mentorship helps individuals and organisations tap into their authentic voice, creating greater impact. He’s passionate about building inner confidence and specific skills for personal and business success.

Dave Nixon

Dave Nixon is a health professional, business person and author. He has worked with over 10 thousand people throughout his 20 years in the health and wellness industry. Dave is deeply passionate about making life changing information accessible and approachable and continues to drive real long term change in the way we approach mental, social and physical health.

David Sivyer

David Sivyer is passionate about using food systems as a powerful tool to foster community, sustainability, and innovation. With roots in farming and experience leading urban agriculture initiatives, he’s dedicated to transforming how cities approach food waste and sustainability. In his upcoming TED Talk, David will explore how food can be the foundation for collaboration and growth, helping cities become more connected and resilient. His work is about reimagining urban life through the lens of food, creativity, and shared purpose.

Declan Edwards

Positive Psychology Researcher

Declan Edwards is a happiness researcher, keynote speaker and author. He is an avid believer in the potential of people and has devoted his time, effort and business to equipping people with the strategies to manage their emotions and master their mindset.

Dr Tim Stewart

CEO and Medical Director

Dr Tim Stewart is an experienced emergency medicine practitioner who has practiced across the world. Tim and his team at Heal Urgent Care have recently rolled out an innovative urgent care model in New South Wales which aims to provide excellent service and healthcare whilst reducing burdens placed upon hospital and health care systems.

Heston Russell

Veteran and Advocate

Heston Russell is a veteran, an advocate and a voice for change. After leaving the defence force, Heston pledged to not become a statistic and has since dedicated his time and passion to ensure that veterans are supported. Heston is now a motivational speaker who aims to share how important purpose is for us all and what impact it can have upon our lives.

Magdalena Hoeller

International Educator

Magdalena Hoeller is an academic director and works with international students. With a passion for linguistics, she has researched how and why communication succeeds and fails across different cultures and language backgrounds. She is dedicated to creating meaningful connections in diversity in academic, social and personal settings.

Mariam Mohammed

Artist and Facilitator

Mariam is an entrepreneur, artist, speaker, and facilitator who is an advocator for strength, empowerment, diversity ad inclusion, Mariam trains leaders and flips the script on traditional leadership and has been recognised by the Australian Financial Review as one of Australia's 100 Most Influential Women.

Stefanie Costi

Stef is an advocate, activist and lawyer who campaigns for the safety of everyone, particularly in the roles in which they're employed in.

Trudi Boatwright

Trudi Boatwright is a playful experience designer, theatre maker, and global leader in organisational play. She’s helped countless organisations and individuals unlock the science of purposeful play through research and practice, and she’s on a mission to change the world — one playful moment at a time.