TEDx hits a high note at Lagos event

TED, which takes a more global approach than TEDx, is an NPO devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks, which run for 18 minutes or less. TED began in 1984 as a conference where technology, entertainment and design converged, and today it covers almost all topics – from science to business and global issues – in more than 100 languages.

The Lagos event took place at the MUSON (Musical Society of Nigeria) Centre in Lagos on Saturday 3 August. It featured the founder of Slum 2 School Africa, Otto Orondaam, actress Nse Ikpe-Etim, TV director Victor Sanchez Aghahowa, skincare expert Dr Vivian Oputa, and molecular biologist Dr Ayorinde B James, among others. The panels stressed the importance of innovation, creativity, community development and sustainable practices in shaping a better future for Nigeria.

Music played an integral part of the programme, with Isioma Williams of Drumsview Concept and his percussive ensemble Sights and Sounds de l’Afrique presenting a fusion of contemporary jazz and African traditional music to create a blend of soothing and captivating stagecraft.

An unplanned highlight of the event was when a power outage forced the audience members to illuminate the stage with their mobile phones during Afrocentric band The Cavemen's performance. The group, founded by Kingsley Okorie and his brother Benjamin James, played an enthralling set in their very own style of highlife fusion. The Cavemen also combine Afrobeats, jazz and soul in their music  

Radio personalities Oladotun Kayode and Bella Rose Iyere-Okojie entertained the audience in their role as comperes. Another highlight of the event was a session titled The Springboard – Enabling Conversations for the Common Good, which was hosted by Union Bank, a partner of TEDx Lagos.

TEDx is an independent event that can be organised by anyone who obtains a free licence from TED and agrees to follow certain principles. TEDx events are required to be non-profit but organisers may use an admission fee or commercial sponsorship to cover the costs. Speakers are not paid and must relinquish the copyright to their material, which TED may edit and distribute under a creative commons licence.