Pugwash, Nova Scotia, June 10, 2024 – There was such an overwhelmingly positive reaction to the first-ever TEDx event held in the village of Pugwash, Nova Scotia on Sunday, June 9 that members of its Organising Committee are confident it will become an annual fixture on the village’s calendar.
“When we first started planning TEDxPugwash, we weren’t sure what the response would be,” said Chair Gordon Johnson. “But from the day that tickets sold out in just a few hours, it was clear there’s a real interest in bringing the TEDx concept to the local community.
“Because of the generosity of our donors, we were able to present our audience with a top-notch performance experience. Production company Atlantic Live Stream made sure our speakers were showcased to their best advantage, meeting the strict production guidelines outlined by the TEDx organization. Mike Hall and Nathan Leach transformed The Peace Hall, usually the site of informal gatherings and musical presentations, into a professional black box theatre that rivalled a more established TEDx event.”
Nine speakers, including two students from the Pugwash District High School, kept the TEDxPugwash audience enthralled as they described what peace meant to them, using the Earth Charter’s definition: “the wholeness created by right relationships with oneself, other persons, other cultures, other life, Earth, and the larger whole of which all are a part.”
Mr. Johnson noted that in addition to the thought-provoking talks presented on the TEDxPugwash stage, a highlight of the day was the Nova Scotia-themed luncheon prepared by chef Wally Vaters. Mr. Vaters’ menu featured salt cod fish cakes; local beef tenderloin on brioche slider with aged white cheddar; roasted vegetable and jasmine rice bake with smoked tomato concassé; and a trio of salads. A fresh fruit salad and assorted mini cupcakes, mini lemon and blueberry mousse followed, accompanied by tea and coffee.
“All in all, TEDxPugwash was a resounding success because the Organising Committee, donors, speakers and volunteers believed in the TED ethos that ‘ideas change everything.’ I have no doubt that the momentum generated this year will result in an even more impressive event in 2025.”
TEDxPugwash talks will be available for viewing online during the week of June 17, 2024. For more information, please visit www.tedxpugwash.com
Media Contact:
Wendy Davis Johnson
wendydavisjohnson@gmail.com