After a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, TEDxColombo returned with a resounding success on the 27th of August 2023, at the Monarch Imperial, Sri Jayewardenepura. This milestone event, titled “R-Evolution” featured a diverse lineup of six inspiring speakers and two dynamic performers who left an indelible mark on the audience. The event was attended by other TEDx event organizers from the South Asian Region too, including Global Representative – TEDx Development, TED Conferences, Will Davis.
TEDxColombo 2023 brought together thinkers, innovators, and change-makers from various disciplines to explore the theme of revolution and its potential to drive sustainable change and progress. The event was not only a celebration of unconventional perspectives but also a call to action for attendees to challenge the status quo. In addition to the featured talks, the event also hosted a dynamic social spaces area for networking and interactive experiences that fuel the creative mind.
Commenting, Safra Anver, Licensee of TEDxColombo said, “Coming back after four years with an event of this magnitude was both a refreshing and humbling experience; we saw attendees from all sectors and walks of life engage in a cloud of creative thinking and truly groundbreaking ideas.”
The event featured a diverse lineup of speakers who brought their unique perspectives to the forefront. Ashok Ferrey, an award-winning author, shared his remarkable journey from a South London property developer to becoming a prolific writer. Bhavani Fonseka, a Senior Researcher and Attorney-at-Law at the Centre for Policy Alternatives, delved into her work on legal and policy reforms in Sri Lanka. Lakmalie Jayaweera, a multitalented professional encompassing roles as a dental surgeon, attorney-at-law, and health administrator, offered insights from her diverse career. The experimental band Orange Mango challenged musical norms, conveying the joy found in everyday life through their music.
Palinda Kannangara, an esteemed architect known for creating experiential architecture that harmonizes with the natural environment, shared his unique approach. Ryan Rockwood, an international mining expert with over two decades of experience, offered valuable perspectives from the natural resources sector. S. Kisho Kumar, a dedicated social activist, independent researcher, and documentary photographer, focused on uplifting marginalized communities. Sandarangi Perera, a choreographer and dance artist, shared her journey from traditional Kandyan dancing to the world of Commercial HipHop, rounding out a diverse and inspiring lineup of speakers.
TEDxColombo 2023 was made possible through the generous support of sponsors, including SyscoLabs, Amrak Institute, JKIT, Aberdeen Holdings, Richardson Outdoor, SUN FM & Gold FM, Temple Grounds & Kiku, HardTalk, TITANITE, Super Flat Studio, E-Maan Digital, Likuid Spaces, Tai Hsin Shiek Photography, Newswire, and Pulse.
For those who missed TEDxColombo 2023 or wish to relive the inspiring talks, they are out now on the TEDx YouTube Channel. Don’t miss the chance to explore these unconventional perspectives and unrelenting passions, ideas that have the power to shape a better future. To watch the talks and for more information visit www.tedxcolombo.org.
