The Problem with TEDxCNX

At the end of January I had the privilege of attending an independently organized TEDx event.  TEDx events embody the spirit of official TED events but is organized by volunteers in the community.  It’s still a professional and impressive event to attend.

TED talks are known for presenting innovative ideas and encouraging positive change.  To that respect, TEDxCNX did not disappoint.  But as the day went on, I began to realize that each speaker was basically preaching to the choir.  1000 some people – all interested in seeing Chiang Mai become a cleaner city, a safer city, a better educated city.  Explanation for Thailand’s problems and the “innovative” ideas for change were welcomed with applause.  Of the 22 speakers I heard, 6 (if not more) had something to do with education in Thailand.

How was it that with the theme of “Dare to …” 6 people spoke on the same subject and presented similar ideas?

Does this event actually inspire change?

It seems to me that your average Thai person needed to be in the room.  The average Thai person seemed to be excluded from the event first by cost, second by marketing.  I wonder how the audience would respond if it was full of average Thai people.  Would they cheer as we cheered? Would they be inspired to make a difference?  I don’t know.

I don’t mean this to be a harsh criticism, as I quite enjoyed the day.  But if the majority of those present is of a similar mind and yet change happens so slowly, I wonder if the right audience is being reached and engaged.