Anne profileBehind every great project manager stands a great assistant, ready to help in whichever way needed. This year Anne Jacobs, architecture student at TU Delft, stands at the ready to support and provide back-up. It is a function she thus far relishes.

As personal assistant to the project manager, the demands of the job can change at a moment’s notice. “I perform all sorts of roles at the same time,” Jacobs says. “If you need checklists, questionnaires or just about anything else, I can do it.” It is a position and a platform she feels will yield valuable experience in return as well. Indeed the variety of the tasks given to Jacobs is what drives her to do the utmost for the organisation.

Signing up for TEDxDelft was an easy decision for Jacobs when asked to join. “I find the concept of TEDx very inspiring,” she explains. Though new to the organisation she has plenty of enthusiasm for the platform, as shown by her interest in watching TEDx videos. In addition, taking part in the organization will present her the chance to meet and work with new people. Given her motivation for the platform, there can be no doubt Jacobs will do her part to ensure the focus lies firmly on organising great events.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

Just a few months.

Who is your favourite speaker from a previous TEDxDelft conference and why?

Because I am new to the team and have not attended many TEDxDelft events yet, I cannot really decide. I know there will be many more good speakers to come, so I cannot base my answer on just the few of speakers I heard so far. But those I have heard were very good!

Theoretically if you could choose any one person, historical or fictional, to give a talk at TEDxDelft who would it be and why?

I think I would like to hear from a famous fashion designer, because this job sounds very interesting to me. Or say, something more exciting like a mafia boss.

Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?

So many, like beer, going to festivals and concerts, discovering new music, listening to TEDx talks, reading, writing.

If you could give a TEDx talk, what would you talk about?

I think I would probably give a talk about something that has to do with architecture as I am studying architecture at the TU Delft. Or maybe something more personal, about expectations or about prejudices.

Anika profileEvery event has to be carefully planned and executed to make it a success and keep up the standard that TEDxDelft stands for. Especially with the introduction of the cinema and storytelling events. Fortunately our Events coordinator Anika Duut van Goor, study advisor, is more than capable of ensuring the smooth operation of these events.

TEDxDelft has more on its plate than just the traditional TEDx talks, ranging from the new storytelling and cinema to salon events. Given the variety, good organization becomes key. Duut van Goor coordinates the storytelling and cinema events, juggling multiple projects at the same time. She joined the TEDxDelft team a few months back, and her excellent communication and planning skills are an asset to her role, ensuring the events proceed smoothly. Her previous experience as coordinator in other organizations has prepared her well to take on all the challenges that TEDxDelft has to offer.

Duut van Goor feels strongly about the TEDx goal of spreading worthwhile ideas. Indeed when asked to join the TEDxDelft team, it did not take long for her to reply. “What motivates me to work [for TEDxDelft] are the wonderful people and the importance of sharing and communicating,” she explained. Though the demands of organizing the various events differ, Duut van Goor has the flair for turning the storytelling and cinema events into hugely successful TEDxDelft endeavours.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

For about four months now.

Who is your favorite speaker from a previous TEDxDelft conference and why?

That is actually a very recent one! Sarah Kay. She was delightful and moving at the same time. Nothing fake, simply dreaming within reality, speaking out what most of us cannot (especially not in the poetic way she does). I seriously want to be her best friend!

Theoretically if you could choose any one person, historical or fictional, to give a talk at TEDxDelft who would it be and why?

Originally I was going to mention Tesla or something. But now I want to hear that 18 year old girl, Hanna, who told off her father over WhatsApp about the Paris attacks and caring for everyone. If only people like her were world leaders.

Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?

Well, I am really not that secretive. I very openly like to sing, tap dance, act, do puzzles, play The Sims, play tennis, play piano, watch romantic comedies or dystopian movies, and listen constantly to 90s boy bands. I do tend to keep it a secret what I love most about my work … recording data in SPSS … there, I said it!

If you could give a TEDx talk, what would you talk about?

Right now I would talk about the pressure on achievements and performance in society, and how it distracts you from actually living. If I may quote my friend Rachel on this: “We are human beings, not human doings.”

TEDx Delft Profile-62TEDxDelft is more than just a one-day event, with various events taking place throughout the year. The blog is a great place to come and read about what is going on with TEDxDelft. Because this is such an important aspect of the TEDxDelft brand, Pierre Mathieu, Communications Manager for the blog, takes his job very seriously and ensures our audience is always informed.

About this time last year, he started as a blogger with the TEDxDelft team, and now he oversees the entire blog. “The blog’s main aims are to create awareness for our events, present the speakers and the TEDxDelft organisation,” Mathieu explains. As the blog coordinator, he manages a tight schedule of planning, assigning and even writing the blog posts for the TEDxDelft website. But the work alone isn’t what keeps Mathieu so excited about his new role. “The team I worked with was great and the talks were very interesting, so I was eager to continue working with the organisation as a blogger.”

Having signed on initially to improve his writing skills, it’s safe to say he has definitely done that and more. This blog seamlessly delivers all TEDxDelft news because of the hard work Mathieu puts into it. The 2015-2016 TEDxDelft season will be a busy one, but you can be sure that he will keep the posts coming and the audience continuously informed.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?
I started January 2015.

Who is your favourite speaker from a previous TEDxDelft conference and why?
I would have to go with Mileha Soneji, and her talk on how empathy can be the key to innovation. The thing that struck me most about her talk was how a seemingly simple idea could greatly help people with Parkinson’s disease in their everyday lives.

Theoretically, if you could choose any one person, historical or fictional, to give a talk at TEDxDelft who would it be and why?
Ayrton Senna, the former Formula 1 driver. Not for his achievements, but for his outlook on life. He had strong convictions, did a lot for impoverished children in Brazil, and would talk about racing as a means to learn more about himself. I think he would have some very interesting insights.

Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?
I like to write fiction, to create new worlds filled with interesting characters and stories.

If you could give a TEDx talk, what would you talk about?
I have no idea.

Lidwien profile 2Coordinating various activities for an event involves a lot of organizational skills and Lidwien Post is no stranger to the nitty gritty of organizing a TEDx event. The position of Volunteer Coordinator should therefore suit Post, who works both as a Presentation Coordinator and civil servant, very well.

As coordinator, Post manages the volunteer team and ensures that all the activities for a TEDx event run smoothly and without any glitches. An event such as TEDxDelft requires a team of dedicated volunteers for its various enterprises and activities. And coordinating them requires management and organizational skills, which Post should have in abundance, given her experience working as a Presentation Coordinator at the Rietveld Theater.

Post heard about TEDxDelft when she met Molly Quell, project manager, while preparations were ongoing at the theater for last year’s TEDxDelft Women. During the summer she was asked to join the organisation, a question she did not need long to think about. “It was great to contribute to the TEDxDellft Women event and when Molly Quell asked if I wanted to join TEDxDelft, I immediately said yes,” she said. Given her previous experience coordinating events, there is no doubt Post is ready to take on the challenges of helping coordinate a TEDx event and make it a huge success.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?
It is now just a few months.

Who is your favourite speaker from a previous TEDxDelft conference and why?
I must admit, I have not watched any of them.

Theoretically if you could choose any one person, historical or fictional, to give a talk at TEDxDelft who would it be and why?
In preparation to this interview I watched Tedx Talk Amsterdam. I really was under the impression of the talk of Michaele DePrince but also of George Vaillant. Very impressive life changing stories and a way to think about how to become or help somebody to become a loving personality.

Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?
Yoga, making pastries and working in the garden. But that is not a secret. Spending time with friends and family. Being loved and giving love.

If you could give a TEDx talk, what would you talk about?
Gee, that is a difficult one. I think I will pass this one. Oh no. “Take care of yourself!” If you can embrace who you are with all your quirks, people will love you and you will love them back for it!

Rienske profile 2As the TEDxDelft platform grows with more events than ever before, finding and maintaining good relationships with its partners becomes even more important. As Partner Lead, Rienske Gielesen, owner of a communications consultancy, is charged with ensuring that the organisation finds and maintains these relationships.

“TEDxDelft has some great founding partners who have been responsible for the existence of this platform for over five years,” Gielesen explains. From the storytelling events to the salons and of course the main event, partners make a valuable contribution. Gielesen’s task is to find new partners and maintain the current partners, in order to secure funds and other in-kind benefits. In return she also shows how the partners can gain from TEDxDelft through exposure of their brand. It it this mutually beneficial relationship she is building with current and future partners.

It is the inspiring nature of TED and TEDx talks that convinced Gielesen to become a part of the TEDxDelft organisation. “My drive is to meet people outside of their ‘work-comfort zone’ and help them connect to it in another way,” she explains. The talks are a source of inspiration to her, which show how to make a difference. Leave it to Gielesen then to show TEDxDelft’s partners how their contribution will benefit everyone. “It is a privilege to be a part of this.”

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

Since TEDxDelft Women, May 2015.

Who is your favourite speaker from a previous TEDxDelft conference and why?

Marije Nie’s “One Million Steps,” a tap dancing adventure at TEDxDelft 2013. I loved her energy and the inspiring thought of being aware of the power of silence and use this to dance and create your next adventures. What she did in Gezi park, next to the Taksim square during the Arab Spring, amazing!

Theoretically if you could choose any one person, historical or ficional, to give a talk at TEDxDelft who would it be and why?

Salvador Dali. I would love to get a glimpse of what was going on in his mind. I guess a TED talk about “creating new reality” would suit him very well.

Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?

My secret is that my work became my hobby. Besides that, I write and draw poems of the soul, for people who dare to meet their own essence. And of course spending family time with my husband and two lovely daughters.

If you could give a TEDx talk, what would you talk about?

Last year, the engine cover opened up while driving on the highway, blocking my view. When I was standing safely on the side of the road, I heard this music on the radio, which I had selected for my funeral. This strange moment reminded me of the fact that life is not a dress rehearsal, there is only the here and now. My talk would be about that: Embrace your doubts, pains and awkward moments, they are just an illusion. If life hurts say “thank you” and after that continue laughing, shining, and dancing your life because that is the only thing that life really is about.

Kauan profile” TEDxDelft is the epitome of giving people a voice,” says Kauan von Novack, TEDxDelft’s new Marketing Manager. The decision to join TEDxDelft was therefore an easy one for von Novack, a founding partner of a marketing and advertising agency. “Giving people voices is my passion.”

As the Marketing manager, von Novack is charged with all TEDxDelft communications, such as social media and blog. “My mission is to bring structure and data to TEDxDelft and enhance the experience of the attendants,” he explains. With every new season the organisation works to bring the experience to the next level. For von Novack one of the ways to achieve this will be by making better use of data analysis to improve communication to the public. Doing this is an important part in ensuring the annual goals will be achieved.

Given his background and motivation throughout his career, von Novack is the perfect fit to take charge of the marketing for this new season. With the annual goals firmly in his sights, it is certain he will make sure that the TEDxDelft voice will be heard loud and clear.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

Since three months ago.

Who is your favourite speaker from a previous TEDxDelft conference and why?

Boyan Slat and how the oceans can clean themselves. So inspiring, so visionary. One of the best, ever.

Theoretically if you could choose any one person, historical or fictional, to give a talk at TEDxDelft who would it be and why?

Oscar Wilde would be a fabulous speaker. I think his aesthetic views, presence and boldness would still shock and amaze the world.

Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?

I run 20 km three times a week and like to read at least one book per week.

If you could give a TEDx talk, what would you talk about?

On how to be successful by being creative. I even wrote a book about that, and translating the business vision into creative lenses is one of my passions.

Rachel profile“Engagement coordinator!” is Rachel Richardson’s enthusiastic response when asked about her current role for TEDxDelft. “I manage and oversee the communications content for the events.” It is a role that suits Richardson, who works as a creative strategist, very well.

“I have been watching TED talks for years now.” she says. After moving to Delft, she found out about a local TEDx event and decided to attend. Before she knew it she was asked to join as a volunteer, something she did not have to think long about. “I thought that was even better than just watching it.”

And so Richardson moved her way through the organisation, from volunteering to leading the social media and blogging team for the new season. Given her previous roles at TEDxDelft working on social media, as well as her passion for the event, one can count on her to push TEDxDelft communications to the next level.

How long have you been part of the TEDxDelft team?

I signed on in September of 2014. This will be my second event season to participate in.

You operated as the social media manager of the TEDxDelftWomen’s conference. Who was your favorite speaker?

That is tough, but, I would say Dr. Wioletta Ruszel because she was so passionate about math and how it is a part of all of our lives. I think math gets a bad rap and I like when it’s given positive attention.

Theoretically if you could choose any one person, historical or fictional, to give a talk at TEDxDelft who would it be and why?

I would love to hear Charlie Chaplin speak. I think he would give, not only an informative talk, but I imagine he would mix in a bit of his fumbling charm to make it visually entertaining as well. He was a great activist in his time, and he used his films to convey serious messages that were wrapped inside of a comedic package. I imagine his talk would be really inspiring.

 Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?

I think I am pretty upfront about my hobbies, even at work. I love eating. Probably more than I should admit. I like trying new restaurants and cuisines. Come to think of it, I should probably get some hobbies that don’t include food. I love to travel too! Since moving to the Netherlands, I have had the chance to see a lot of wonderful new places that I had not seen before, and eat a lot of delicious food I had not tried before.

If you could give a TEDx talk, what would you talk about?

First, I would have to overcome my stammering fear of speaking to a large group of people. Then I might give a talk on how to overcome your stammering fear of speaking to a large group of people. Or, maybe I would talk about the importance of loving yourself – I do always enjoy the feel-good talks.

A new season means new TEDxDelft events to attend and enjoy. On Thursday 15 October at 20:00 we will kick off the season with a completely new type of event: TEDxDelft stories. The theme for this event will be: Stories from childhood. If this sounds interesting, feel free to come join us. For more details on the event, click here to learn more.

Ellen profileSide activities can make a great addition to a TEDxDelft event. For the new season it falls to Ellen Rietveld, Floor Coordinator, to ensure they run smoothly. “I coordinate the side activities for all the events. I make sure the space and facilities are available, and that people know when they are expected.” It is a position which should suit Rietveld, a freelance business assistant, like a glove.

It is the sense of teamwork and working towards a common goal that convinced Rietveld to sign up for TEDxDelft. “When I started out working for myself I still wanted to feel part of a team,” she explains. “I was very happy to find out that I could volunteer for TEDxDelft, meeting many wonderful people and achieving something together.”

Combined with her experience from TEDxDelft events, Rietveld will be well placed to coordinate the side activities for this season’s events. Working with different people to arrange the side events, one can be sure that Rietveld will ensure a smooth running operation beyond the TEDxDelft stage.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

This will be my third edition, starting out as room monitor and person-that-moves-photos-from-memory-cards-to-the-blog-space via volunteer coordination, to now being part of the organizing team.

Who is your favorite speaker from a previous TEDxDelft conference and why?

Dorothy Grandia at this year’s first TEDxDelft Women, ‘Authenticity is a dangerous word’. Great energy, and hell yeah, so what if it doesn’t feel authentic to act confident? Get over it!

Theoretically if you could choose any one person, historical or fictional, to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

I nominate Daan Roosegaarde.

Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?

Traveling and planning to travel are my favorite waste of time.

If you could give a TEDx talk, what would you talk about?

If, and that’s a big if, I would ever find the nerve, it would be about language and words, Paulien-Cornelisse-style.

 

Caryn profileThe speakers are what make TEDx a unique platform.  For TEDxDelft, Head Curator Caryn ’t Hart de Wijkerslooth, communications lecturer at TU Delft, is the one in charge of finding those with ideas worth spreading. “I am ultimately responsible for all of the creative decisions for TEDxDelft regarding theme, speakers, entertainment, and line-up,” she explains.

Selecting the right speakers is something ’t Hart is well placed to do. For her work she would often show TEDx movies during her lectures, and from then on she was hooked. “Not only did my students like it a lot, I also fell in love with it more and more.” After visiting a local TEDx event and speaking with Rob Speekenbrink, TEDxDelft licensee, about her ideas on the event, she soon became a member of the organization.

Finding the right speakers for this season’s main event and salons should therefore be no problem for ’t Hart. Together with two co-curators, she will ensure that the upcoming events will be a worthwhile experience for its visitors.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

Almost four years now.

You operated as curator at the TEDxDelft 2015 conference. Who was your favorite speaker?

They were all great in their own way! As a curator you can’t have a favorite.

Theoretically if you could choose any one person, historical or fictional, to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

Lettie Hempstock from Neil Gaiman’s The Ocean At The End Of The Lane. She’s an eleven-year-old girl who’s been eleven for a really long time. Lettie can make an entire ocean of knowledge fit into a bucket of water.

Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?

I love taking pictures. I tend to see a lot of beauty in this world and I want to grasp that and share it.

If you could give a TEDx talk, what would you talk about?

Nah. I wouldn’t.

 

Rob profile

“It is very inspiring to me to be part of the TEDx organization,” says Rob Speekenbrink, licensee, curator and TEDxEurope ambassador. Since co-founding the TEDxDelft platform in 2010, organizing the event has given him plenty of inspiration. As such Speekenbrink, who works as an online media consultant for TU Delft, is perfectly poised to provide engaging speakers and topics at every event.

Indeed when Speekenbrink set out to organize the first TEDxDelft, it was the need for inspiration that drove him. “When I first started out I was fed up with normal events that cost a lot of money and take a lot of energy and time, and usually there was not much inspiration, and that still is the case.” Organizing TEDxDelft has provided him with what he had been searching for. In addition, the large network of people he has met as part of the organization have enriched the experience even further.

As TEDxEurope ambassador, Speekenbrink now assists at events across the country and beyond the border as well as overseeing Delft. “Since April this year I have been the TEDxEurope ambassador, so my role has shifted to being a consultant for other TEDx events in the Netherlands and Belgium to help them get started.” With an ever-increasing involvement in the organization, one can always count on Speekenbrink to deliver another inspiring TEDxDelft event.

What is your current role at TEDxDelft and what does that entail?

I am still the licensee for the coming event. We have been looking for another person to take over the license, and we have found someone, but it is a little bit difficult to transfer because of the structure TED has for licenses. A new licensee would have to attend a TED event, and the next one is in December.

If you could choose a historical or fictional figure to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

I proposed hosting an event with deceased historical figures like Einstein, for instance, and to re-enact Einstein on stage talking about the theory of relativity, but it wasn’t allowed because the idea is that you are able to work with the speaker.

Are there any hobbies you secretly enjoy outside of work?

I still do geocaching, it is my nerdy little secret. I like to be with my family at the weekends and spend as much time with them as I can, because they give me a lot of energy. My hobbies and work are very much the same thing I think. Being involved in TEDx is still a hobby of mine, and I am very grateful that I get to do that next to the work I do for the university.

If you had the opportunity to give a TED talk, would you?

No. There are several kinds of people. I am one of those people who would probably never do a TED talk not because I wouldn’t like to, but because I don’t think I could do one.

Pieter Guldemond Headshot

For Pieter Guldemond, there is no doubt that this year’s TEDxDelft event will be a day worth remembering. With an impressive line-up of speakers and talks, the event offers something that will appeal to every visitor in many different ways. “TEDxDelft is a one-day event that you will remember fondly for the rest of the year,” Guldemond says. “There are a lot of interesting things that happen during the event. One speech always sticks out for me, and every time it is a surprise to find out which talk it will be.”

As Secretary of the TEDxDelft Non-profit Organization, Guldemond is primarily focused on ensuring that there are sufficient funds to organize an event each year, which will attract as many visitors as possible. “The main challenge is to find new partners for the event,” he says. Fortunately, it is a situation Guldemond knows very well as Interim Director of TU Delft business incubator YES! Delft. “I was working for the Delft City Council when TEDxDelft was first being organized. As soon as the organization contacted us, I had to know everything about it.”

Guldemond is convinced that this year’s TEDxDelft event is truly worth looking forward to. As a matter of fact, he compares each event to opening a pile of presents and discovering what is inside. Indeed, visitors will undoubtedly cherish these gifts for a long time to come.

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I’m the secretary of the TEDxDelft board. It is my main task to take care of sufficient subsidies to organize a stunning TEDxDelft.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

When I was alderman in the city of Delft I heard rumors about a man who had the license to organize a TEDx event in Delft. As I was a big fan of TED.com for some years, I immediately searched for this man and met Rob Speekenbrink. That was the beginning of a fruitful cooperation between the city of Delft and TU Delft. Eventually we managed to organize the first TEDxDelft in 2011.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft Team?

I was involved from the very beginning, but I joined the board in June 2014.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

Jett Rebel. I think he is an interesting artist, struggling with his personality. In my opinion artists generally think different than most of the people. It’s very interesting to understand what happens in their heads, like Spinvis did when he was cultural professor at the TU Delft.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

I’m a big fan of hummingbirds.

TEDxDelft 2014
 

Success is achieved when a team of  highly committed and skilful people devote their time and effort towards a common venture. The TEDxDelft Webcare Team is one such group, working together to make this year’s TEDxDelft event bigger and better than ever. Consisting of a diverse crew of internationals, the team is responsible for TEDxDelft’s online communication, be it via the website or social media.

In order to increase public awareness of the upcoming TEDxDelft event, the webcare team is instrumental in managing the organization’s website content and social media channels. As part of the Marketing and Communications Team, this group of more than twenty enthusiastic volunteers gives the audience something to look forward to by providing relevant information about TEDxDelft, the conference’s impressive line-up of speakers and the individuals and organizations involved in making the event possible.

When asked what is in store for the team during this year’s big event, Online Media Coordinator Molly Quell had this to say: “We announce all of our speakers on the blog. We also announce our side events such as the TEDxDelftSalons. Our audience like a behind-the-scenes look, so we also do interviews with our Core Team and a few other behind-the-scenes pieces. On the day of the event, we live blog the entire event.”

Combining the scope and efficiency of social media along with the skills of webcare team, live blogging during the event ensures that up-to-date information reachers a worldwide audience. In this day and age where social media is easily accessible, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn are effective tools in keeping the audience in the know, in real time.

“We always talk about ideas and inspiration, but there’s a huge gap between a great idea and the actualisation of it,” says TEDxDelft blogger Damini Purkayastha.“It will be interesting to see how the speakers actually went from A to Z with their concepts without losing heart along the way. From an idea to an actual event watched by thousands, it’s a fascinating, stimulating journey. That alone makes it something worth putting in the hours for.” Unleashing the power of ideas from a community of scientists, designers and thinkers, the webcare team takes the utmost effort in supporting this motto and marching forward.

Meed the TEDxDelft 2015 Webcare Team:

Molly Quell – Online Media Coordinator
Phillip Gangan – Webcare Team Manager, Online Content
Rachel Richardson – Webcare Team Manager, Social Media

Bloggers:

Philipp Banhardt
Anne Blair Gould
Agaath Diemel
Pierre Mathieu
Juni Margrie
Hardi Wiranata Njo
Preethi Padmanabhan
Damini Purkayastha
Paul Schattenberg
Girish Venkatachalapathy

Social Media Team:

Ailie Burningham
Melinda Jacobs

Vishal Lakmar Balakumar
Oriol Segarra
Marta Sobieraj
Rosalind van Aalen Grant

Photographers:

Aditya Kumar
Jan Willem Kommer

Caryn 't Hart de Wijkerslooth Profile

Every year, TEDxDelft features an impressive line-up of speakers and their ideas worth spreading. As one of the curators on the team, Caryn ’t Hart de Wijkerslooth is always eager to make each TEDxDelft event extra special in regard to the program’s content. “What I find very rewarding is trusting my eye for a good story,” she says. Indeed, finding good storytellers does not pose much of a challenge to ‘t Hart de Wijkerslooth, since she tries to instill this type of skill to her students at TU Delft. “’I teach public speaking, scientific writing and debating skills,” she shares. “Basically, I help future engineers tell their story in the best possible way.”

According to ‘t Hart de Wijkerslooth, there is a lot that visitors can look forward at this year’s event. “There will be lots of diversity, in a lot of ways,” she explains, “diversity in stories, people, ages, subjects.” That being said, ‘t Hart de Wijkerslooth is optimistic that the combination of speakers and their stories will lead to a program that visitors will truly appreciate. “I hope to see people enjoying the program that we arranged for the event,” she says.

It goes without saying that ‘t Hart de Wijkerslooths’ enthusiasm for TEDxDelft is clear for all to see. As a matter of fact, she is also helping to organize the first TEDxDelftwomen event, which will take place on May 29, 2015. With such a commitment to TEDxDelft, there is every reason to believe this year’s event will be a great success.

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I’m one of the three curators. The word curator comes from the Latin curare, meaning “take care”. So, we take care of the program, basically. I look for possible speakers and performers to be on the TEDxDelft stage. I search , interview, and invite speakers and performers for the lineup, keeping in mind the balance in the program. Together with Rob Speekenbrink and Jeroen van Erp I will hopefully construct and design a wonderful program with good speakers for the next TEDxDelft.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

Because I am a story geek. I love reading stories, hearing stories, writing stories, referring to stories, discovering stories and helping people build up their story. In short, stories make me tick. I’m convinced that people are shaped by stories and at the same time,  shape stories. Stories might be the most important things we have. So, when I discovered TED years ago I immediately thought that it was so awesome. Then I discovered that there were TEDx events in the Netherlands as well. I knew I wanted to contribute straightaway.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

Since January 2013.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

Annie MG Schmidt. Definitely. It would be awesome to hear her speak about her power to be an original, how to find your spark.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

Although I stick to my vegetarian –mostly even vegan- diet, I love a klup burger from time to time at Café van Engelen in Leiden.

‘There’s nothing more challenging or rewarding than to make this year’s TEDxDelft event a kick-ass experience,” says Wolter Smit. As Treasurer of the TEDxDelft non-profit organization, it goes without saying that Smit plays an important role in the team. Any event, no matter how ‘kick-ass’, requires sound finances, ensuring that expenditures do not exceed the earnings. This may mean having to make choices between what is possible and what is not. “It is a risk calculation of a sort, evaluating whether something is possible or if we have to give in because the funding does not allow for it,” explains Smit.

Being Treasurer does mean being more removed from the event itself, Smit admits. “The closer you are to the actual organisation of the event itself, the more it pulls you in,” he says. “I look at it from a bit farther away.” What matters to Smit is that sponsors are signed on and the bills are paid on time. Despite looking at the organisation from more of a distance, this has done nothing to diminish Smit’s enthusiasm about the upcoming event. In particular, the diversity among the speakers and the atmosphere are what Smit looks forward to. With such a positive attitude, visitors can rest assured that TEDxDelft is going to be a truly kick-ass event.

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I’m the Treasurer of TEDxDelft. Basically, my job is to make sure there will be another TEDx edition after this one.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

Someone in the board asked me if I could help out. I’m an entrepreneur, so I could make some connections to the local business community and make sure that TEDxDelft is run soundly and professionally. I really like the TEDx concept so it didn’t take long for me to decide to join.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

This is the second TEDxDelft I’m helping with.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

I would choose Elon Musk. He founded PayPal and then went on to run SpaceX en Tesla Motors. He would talking about having an impact as an entrepreneur.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

It is not a secret that I feed my inner nerd now and then by programming or toying around with Arduino.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6tW-IieDNg

How do you go from giving a simple presentation to delivering an unforgettable performance? That’s the business of the TEDxDelft Performer Coaching Team: helping speakers to give the performance of their lifetime.

Performer Coaching Team
So just how does the team do this? We spoke with Toine Andernach, Co-ordinator of the TEDxDelft Performer Coach Team.

“First of all, TEDx is different from the usual setting,” says Andernach. “It’s not a PowerPoint presentation for your colleagues at work. It’s a performance so people need training in the characteristics of a show.”

At the core of a TEDx talk is the ‘Idea Worth Spreading’ and it usually takes a while before the speakers have boiled all their information down to one simple message. “The speakers might have a vague idea”, claims Andernach, “but we usually need to help them build a story around the idea.” Performer Coach Jonathan Talbott agrees: “If the main idea isn’t very clear then it’s just a cool story. But we’re not in the business of cool stories – we’re in the business of making people think!”

Another challenge for the team is that a TEDx talk is very concise; it can be six, twelve or eighteen minutes long. “That can be tough,” agrees Talbott. “Usually my clients have one of two problems. Either they have way too much stuff or they worry that they’ve got no idea what they’re going to talk about. Usually it turns out they do know what they want to talk about – it’s just a confidence problem. So mostly that’s what I do – I help people with their confidence.”

Once the content is sorted, the coaches turn next to the form of the talk. “Once we’ve got it down it into a ‘Tweet form’ – I mean really solidly sorted out – then it’s my job to say: Hey how are we going to get that message across?” says Talbott. What often works well is a personal story says Andernach. “Where the audience identifies with the story and thinks “Oh yes I can do that too!” – that’s important.”

And there’s another advantage to telling personal stories – a physiological one. “Something happens in your brain when you tell a personal story,” explains Talbott. “As you’re telling it, you really get into it and so you forget your nerves.”

The team also coaches speakers in the use of silence. “If you leave just three seconds of silence between words, sentences, or chunks of sentences, you get a lot for free”, explains Andernach. “Silence can emphasis the point being made and give the audience time to understand.” It’s not easy to do but the Performer Coaching Team trains speakers how and when to use silence. And it can be really effective, says Andernach: “If people are able to do it well in their talk, it always gives me goosebumps!”

Meet the TEDxDelft 2015 Speaker Coaches:

Toine Andernach Headshot
Toine Andernach

 

 

Sjaak Baars

 

 

Wim Blokzijl

 

 

renate


Renate  Klaassen

 

 

 

Jet van Paassen

 

 

 

Kim van der Linden

 

 

Martijn Wackers foto


Martijn Wackers

 

 

 

Antoinette Wijffels

 

 

 

Jonathan Talbott

 

Liesbeth Mantel Headshot

For Liesbeth Mantel, Project Manager of TEDxDelft, there is no doubt that this year’s event will be better than ever. “We can expect an even bigger, more inspirational day than the last three years,” Mantel says, “because the organization is growing as well, so we know what we need to do to make it even better than the last time.” With a dedicated team and good partnerships, Mantel is convinced that everything is shaping up nicely for this year’s TEDxDelf event.

Having helped organise the TEDxDelft event two years ago as a speaker liaison, Mantel is looking forward to seeing what challenges her new role will bring. More than anything, what matters most to her is the smooth operation of the event itself, when everyone knows their roles and people are fully committed to play their part so that the visitors will have a truly memorable day.

When she’s not organizing TEDxDelft, Mantel works as Head of Open Spaces at the TU Delft library, where she is responsible for the public areas. “I like to redesign spaces and think about what people need when they come to a building,’ she explains. Writing a blog in her spare time, where she recommends great places to visit, it’s easy to understand that for Mantel, nothing is more rewarding than having organized a successful event where the visitors matter most. ‘It’s most rewarding is when it’s a huge success, when, at the end of the day, when everyone goes home you can say, we did a good job.”

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I’m the project leader of the event. That means that I’m responsible for the whole day and everything that has to do with that. I’m not responsible for the speakers and the talks. I work with a wonderful team of people who all have their own expertise.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

Rob Speekenbrink and I are colleagues at TU Delft. During the TEDxDelft edition of 2012, I was the speaker liaison. In 2013, I was in the audience and I realised that I wanted to be part of the team again. I asked Rob if he had a position in the team for me.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft Team?

This will be my second TEDxDelft event.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

That would be my friend Marina Noordegraaf. I’m sure she would make a lasting impression.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

I love books and paper. I make cards and I collect angels.

Brenda Hooiveld Headshot

Working together with other people is one of the most gratifying things to do. Whether it’s playing the tuba in an orchestra or getting colleagues and volunteers to be enthusiastic about TEDxDelft, what Volunteer Coordinator Brenda Hooiveld appreciates most is the opportunity to work with other people. It’s no surprise then that she returns to the team for a third time to help organise the upcoming TEDxDelft event.

While most people would regard it a challenge to coordinate more than a hundred volunteers, Hooiveld considers such an undertaking to be a reward in itself. “Every year, I am amazed and surprised by how many highly motivated volunteers are prepared to do almost anything for TEDxDelft,” Hooiveld says. “I really enjoy getting other people equally enthusiastic about the event. It’s a really great concept and I love creating a sense of excitement around it.” Indeed, for Hooiveld, there is no better moment when the sense of cooperation, inspiration and excitement come together than during the event itself.

Working as a Communications Advisor for TU Delft’s Education and Student Affairs department, Hooiveld is a genuine people person. So when the opportunity came to join the TEDxDelft team as the Volunteer Coordinator, she was more than willing to take up the task. “They needed someone who could work with people from all across the board and I like working with people,” Hooiveld explains, “so I thought, why not?”

If you are interested in volunteering for the upcoming TEDxDelft event, why not drop her a line or sign up via our website?

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I am the volunteer coordinator. This means that I am responsible for recruiting and mobilizing the volunteers at TEDxDelft. And of course keep all volunteers and our event managers happy.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

I was a volunteer at the first TEDxDelft and several of the organisers of TEDxDelft are colleagues of mine, as I work at TU Delft

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

The first edition I was a normal volunteer. Unfortunately, I had to skip the 2nd edition. The role of volunteer coordinator I am doing for the 2nd year.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why? 

Mr. Bean, curious what he would do on such a stage.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

I read a lot, including fantasy and science fiction books. And I am a comics fan.

Paul Manuel Headshot “It’s an honor to work for TEDxDelft,” says Paul Manuel, Board Member of the TEDxDelft Non-profit Organization. “The most challenging part is to give all the visitors the best experience. We make this happen with a very small budget, but also through a huge amount of effort from the volunteers.” As managing partner of leading Dutch digital agency TamTam, Manuel greatly appreciates the value of discovering and learning new things, especially from younger generations. “I am always surprised by the young students on stage,” Manuel shares. “I can get completely energized by their stories.  I still use some of them as examples in my business.”

When he’s not looking to inspire or be inspired by others, the Delft resident spends his time communing with nature, be it biking, sailing, skiing or drinking under the rain, snow and sun. Although he would like to keep the details of the TEDxDelft event under warps, Manuel insists that conference will be well organized. “This is the first time we begin the event in the afternoon,” Manuel says. “This will give the event a new dimension. All-in-all, TEDxDelft will give visitors new insights and chance to meet nice people.”

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

 TEDxDelft is a foundation with a board. I am in the board with Rob, Peter and Wolter.

 Why did you get involved with the organization?

Because rob asked me and I find it an honor to contribute to such a beautiful event in Delft.

 How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft Team?

I have been  involved in the foundation’s board since the first TEDxDelft.

 If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

TEDxDelft is the right place to get surprised by unknown people. Of all speakers, I think the students are most often the most surprising.

 What’s your nerdy little secret?

I am founding partner of digital agency Tam Tam, but I have no clue how to get my wifi or whatsoever working properly.

Sylvia Walsarie Wolff Headshot

“Taking care of people is something I have always liked,” says Sylvia Walsarie Wolff, Speaker Liaison of TEDxDelft. “In this energetic environment, I have the opportunity to cooperate with all kinds of people in order make speakers as comfortable as possible before, during and after the event.” Given the number of high profile speakers invited to the upcoming TEDxDelft event, it appears that this is no ordinary task. Indeed, some presenters consider speaking at TEDxDeflt to be quite the undertaking, which is why Wolff does her utmost best to ensure that they have a pleasant experience.

Relying on her years of expertise as both Project Manager and Policy Officer at TU Delft, Wolff serves as the go-to person for all speaker-related concerns, queries and requests. Needless to say, she plays a critical role in the coordination and organization of the TEDxDelft event. “If we succeed, we will manage to offer visitors inspiring performances by relaxed, well-prepared speakers,” Wolff claims. With all the planning and preparations conducted throughout the year, she and the entire TEDxDelft team hope that this will in fact be the case.

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I’m the speaker liaison: the person speakers can turn to with all their questions, requests, complaints,  suggestions and wishes before, during and after the event.

Why did you get involved with the organization?
Last year, Brenda made me coordinator of a team of volunteers – a job I enjoyed a lot. So when I was asked to expand my involvement  his year and become speaker liaison, I was very pleased and took the job.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft Team?
I have been part of the TEDxDelft team since Spring 2014.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

Piet van der Zanden is a colleague I met when I started working at TU Delft thirteen years ago.  He managed to raise 6 kids, rebuild a house, get his PhD, write a book and always be a pleasant person. Currently he is working at ICT education support staff on innovative projects like the classroom of the future. I think his vision on life can inspire many people. Moreover, he is the only man I know who likes shopping more than his wife.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

I used to collect Douwe Egberts points, but now the Douwe Egberts shops disappeared and you have to go to Blokker to get your china, I quit. I hate Blokker.

Toine Andernach Headshot“The most challenging part of my job is to help the TEDxDelft speakers prepare for the best performance they will ever deliver,” says Toine Andernach, Coordinator of the Performer Coaching Team at TEDxDelft. “This year, you will be surprised, confronted, provoked and entertained more than ever before!” Together with a dedicated team of coaches, the head of TU Delft’s FOCUS Centre of Expertise on Education lends his support to the TEDxDelft performers to help them deliver powerful and captivating presentations. “I am looking forward to seeing the whole picture on the day of the event,” Andernach shares, “the nicely decorated stage, performers at their best and an audience ready to be inspired.”

In order to bring the various talks to life, storytelling, theater techniques, stage direction and English language feedback are among the creative tools employed by the Performer Coaching Team. Nevertheless, the longstanding Den Hoorn resident and proud father of twins insists that silence plays an integral role in enhancing the theatrical effect of the presentations. “I am convinced that the quality of performances would drastically increase when performers use silence more intentionally,” Andernach says. Indeed, this enables the speakers to deliver spectacular performances that the audience will never forget.

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

At TEDxDelft, I’m responsible for coordinating the Performer Coaching Team. With a team of about ten coaches, we help our performers to prepare and deliver the performance of their life.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

I got involved with the TEDxDelft organization because I felt I could contribute to optimize the quality of our performers. I told Rob Speekenbrink and he asked me to join the team. And I love the TEDx concept!

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft Team?

I have been part of TEDxDelft since the very beginning in 2011, when we already started coaching performers.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

I would like director and (documentary) film maker Michiel van Erp to give a talk at TEDxDelft because of his original and subtle way of looking at both ordinary and special people and showing how they behave.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

My nerdy little secret is that I propagate the use of silence in presentations while I often cannot stop talking myself.

“It’s great to think of ways to ensure that TEDxDelft visitors have a memorable and inspiring time,” says Dominique van Werkhoeven, Event Production Manager at TEDxDelft. “I’ve always enjoyed organizing events, whether it’s dinner with friends or international business conferences in different countries across the world!” Prior to moving to Delft in 2012, the London native and Oxford University graduate spent a considerable amount of time in France, working with and on behalf of young people. “I’m passionate about people, especially the youth,” Werkhoeven shares. “ They have so much energy and creativity.”

Whether she’s making visitors feel welcome during the TEDxDelft event or organizing community activities with her local Christian group, Werkhoeven definitely enjoys being involved. “I look forward to people arriving and feeling very curious about what the TEDxDelft event will hold for them and then seeing them leave, having felt well looked after and with new ways of seeing things around them,” she says. “I also look forward to working with the different volunteers who join us to make the day possible!”

Can you tell us something about yourself?

My name is Dominique, I’m from London and moved to the Netherlands in 2012 when I got married to my gorgeous Dutch husband. I really enjoy living and working in international and multi-cultural situations – so Delft is a great place to be for that! After graduating from Oxford University in UK with a law degree, I did something very different and got involved with event planning, organising and delivering. Then I discovered just how much I enjoyed it and have done it ever since!

What’s your job at TEDxDelft?

My job, together with Iris, is Event Production. That means supporting the TEDx event by making sure that guests feel welcome and can enjoy the most out of the whole TEDx experience,  even when in the main auditorium listening to the inspiring talks!

What’s your favourite TED(x)talk?

I really enjoy Sir  Ken Robinson’s talk on how schools can kill creativity – what a challenge to rethink the education systems around the world. And I really like the Kid President videos that are on the TED website – fun, inspirational and cute!

Which keywords define you as a person?

People-person, spontaneous, loyal,  Lion King-enthusiast! If we spend some time talking, I will probably ask you “What’s your story?” because I really enjoy hearing individual stories. I find it fascinating! And I like words and using them well to create stories!

Jeroen van Erp Headshot

“It’s challenging to create a balanced program that I would personally enjoy seeing,” says Jeroen van Erp, Program Director of TEDxDelft. Responsible for organizing the line up of speakers and acts during each year’s event, Van Erp ensures that TEDxDelft consistently maintains high standards, which are  parallel to his own. “I’m pretty spoiled, so it’s quite an ambitious task,” the curator claims. “I’m looking forward to seeing the audience enjoying the event, especially during the breaks!”

When he’s not in search of inspiring ideas for TEDxDelft, Van Erp takes the lead in fostering creativity as Chairman of the Dutch Creative Council and Chief Creative Officer of Dutch branding and design agency Fabrique. Moreover, he is currently involved in developing a new design school in India. Despite his busy schedule, Van Erp always finds time to enjoy the little pleasures in life. “You can wake me at night to listen to great music from The Beatles or Miles Davis,” the Director says, “or to watch the next season of Homeland.”

As for what can be expected of this year’s TEDxDelft event, Van Erp is adamant on keeping his lips sealed. “I won’t tell you what you can expect,” the curator says. “Oh, come on!”

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I’m one of the programmers, always searching for new ideas, new voices and new personalities.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

I got involved from the beginning. I liked the idea from the start and got more enthusiastic after meeting the wonderful team.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft Team?

This is my fourth edition!

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

I would love to hear Prince Roger Nelson. Hearing him talk about his music and seeing him demonstrate how he writes songs would be awesome.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

The biggest one is probably the fact that I’m fond of mayonaise.

Iris Kramer Headshot

“I only want to see happy faces on the day of the event,” says Iris Kramer, Event Production Manager at TEDxDelft. Having studied at TU Delft for the last five years, Kramer has mastered the intricacies of event management as an active member of several student boards and committees. “I love to organize these events. That is why I wanted to get involved with TEDxDelft.”

Born and raised in the Northern countryside of Friesland, Kramer moved to Delft to study Architecture and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Real Estate and Housing. She hopes that her organizational skills and experience will be put to good use during the run-up to the big day.

“Since this is my first year working on the TEDxDelft event, everything is new to me and I need to discover what needs to be done,” Kramer shares. “However, everybody at TEDxDelft is motivated and driven, which makes it really rewarding to put a lot of effort into the event!” Indeed, Kramer’s ultimate goal is to make this year’s theme stand out, not only through the various talks, but also during the TEDxDelft event as a whole.

1. What is your role at TEDxDelft? 

As Event Production Manager, I am responsible for everything that happens outside of the theatre. I fulfill the job together with my co-manager Dominique Riley.

2. Why did you get involved with the organization?

Currently, I am a Master student at the TU Delft. I love studying and everything that comes with it. This leads to an enormous amount of curiosity. TED talks give me a lot of inspiration and drive to work. This is why I wanted to get involved with the organization of the TEDx event in Delft.

3. How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

Since September, we officially started as Event Production Managers for the 2015 TEDxDelft event.

4. If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

This would be someone I do not already know and I have never heard of. I love to watch new talks by persons that are unknown to me but do have an amazing story. By hearing about new things, I get inspired to keep thinking and innovating.

5. What’s your nerdy little secret?

I love everything that includes the combination of creativity and technology.

Annelies Gras Headshot

“I’m very excited!” says Annelies Gras, Marketing and Communications Manager for TEDxDelft. As the newest member of the team, Gras is thrilled to be a part of the organization and is eager to get to work. “The people at TEDxDelft are very energetic and enthusiastic, and I felt welcome right away. I started a few weeks ago and I was immediately thrown in the deep-end. That’s probably the best way to get involved. Just do it!”

When she’s not spreading the word on the upcoming TEDxDelft event or pushing herself to the limit during her weekly boot camp sessions, Gras serves as an independent marketing and communications professional. In 2012, she established her own firm Vers Gras Communicatie and has been working with several businesses and institutions across the Netherlands. Naturally, Gras brings her expertise to the TEDxDelft team, encouraging various organizations and the media to get involved with the event.

“It will be very different to attend TEDxDelft as one of the organizers,” Gras shares. “During the past three years, I attended the event as visitor. Now, I expect to see fewer talks. On the other hand, I look forward to enjoying TEDxDelft from behind-the-scenes. This year’s line-up of speakers is very interesting, so I think the event will be amazing!”

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I am responsible for all marketing en communications activities. My focus is mainly on the offline marketing and communications activities, Molly focuses on online communication. I try to generate free publicity and i want to make sure that TEDxDelft is visible in the city of Delft. Molly and i work together to make sure we communicate adequate on all platforms.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

I visited all TEDxDelft events so far and I really enjoy the event and the vibe around it. A few weeks ago Antoinette send me an email to let me know that the TEDxDelft team was looking for a marketing and communications coordinator and i replied immediately.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

A few weeks.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

I would like to invite Noella de Jager. She’s believes in the power of self employed women. Ze has created a work environment where women can outshine and help each other to grow as entrepreneur. She is an expert in creating a meaningfull community.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

Recently a bought a record player and i love to be at home and create a nostalgic atmosphere while i listen to old records.

Rob Speekenbrink Headshot

“My job is to curate, motivate and mediate,” says Rob Speekenbrink, co-founder and Chairman of TEDxDelft. Since 2010, the long-standing Delft resident and father of two has devoted much of his time and energy to the organization and in making each TEDxDelft event a success. “[Four years ago,] a few colleagues and I decided to strive to get TEDx to Delft,” Speekenbrink shares. “I feel it is my job to make sure TEDxDelft is going to be what it can be.”

As a user interface designer and online media consultant for TU Delft, Speekenbrink understands how technology, design and creativity actively shape the world we live in. His favorite TEDx talks discuss the way we view education, the future of user interface design and how to follow your passion. That the Internet will replace local politics in 50 years time is a unique idea he believes is worth spreading.

Apart from overseeing the official TEDxDelft brand, Speekenbrink is also involved in the selection of speakers and performers, making sure that each talk is in-line with the event’s annual theme. “This year, people can expect a very surprising line-up, with speakers and acts that you normally won’t see on a stage,” Speekenbrink says.  “They can expect to be amazed and be made to think.”

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I am the licensee of TEDxDelft and therefore responsible for the TEDxDelft brand. This also means I am the contact person for TED in Delft. I’m one of three people responsible for selecting speakers and performers. There are three curators to make sure we pick the right ones.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

I founded TEDxDelft in 2010, together with Simone de Jong, and formed the team that organised the first TEDxDelft in 2011. We decided to start TEDxDelft when we asked each other the question why there was no TEDx  in Delft and could not come up with an answer. By the time we found out what the answer was (it takes a lot of time and energy) we were already halfway to the first TEDxDelft event. We also found out that being involved in a TEDx event gives you lots of energy and positivism and is addictive.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft team?

Since the very beginning.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

Thom Yorke. I think we all have music that we can link to intense periods in our lives. The voice that comforts me (and still does) is Thom Yorke’s. I know it sounds strange to a lot of people but I’m cheered up by the sound of Thom, Radiohead and Atoms for peace.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

I like to go geocaching with my family on the weekend, play with raspberry pi computers and will be launching my very own Hyves-like social network soon. I want to experience or use technology before I believe they do what they say it does.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pm9s50yCO3Q&feature=youtu.be

Molly Quell Headshot“Motivating a large group of people is always a challenge,” says Molly Quell, Online Media Coordinator for TEDxDelft. As a Social Media Consultant and the International Editor of TU Delft’s official campus magazine TU Delta, Quell is no stranger to the complexities of people management. “I think both the most challenging and rewarding part of my job are the same, which is managing the great team of international volunteers we have who oversee the online content,” Quell claims. “However, seeing the great work that they do at the end of the day is a great reward.”

Over the last three years, Quell has brought her wealth of experience and expertise in Marketing and Communications to the TEDxDelft Team. Besides maintaining the organization’s online presence, she also manages the web care team, which provides regular updates on the event as well as unique insights into the mind of each speaker. “The most exciting part for me is the live blogging and social media updates on the day of the conference,” Quell says. “This year, there will be a very interesting and inspiring group of speakers with ideas worth sharing.”

What is your role at TEDxDelft?

I’m the Online Media Coordinator so I’m responsible for our online presence as well as manage the web care team on the day of the event. I’m also the designated “native English speaker” so I answer a lot of strange questions about grammar.

Why did you get involved with the organization?

Like a lot of people, I got involved because of Rob Speekenbrink. We’re colleagues at TU Delft and I had enjoyed working with him on a number of projects. He asked me to be a part of the team, giving me the opportunity to do the work that I most enjoy.

How long have you been a part of the TEDxDelft Team?

I’ve been working with TEDxDelft for three years.

If you could choose one person to give a talk at TEDxDelft, who would it be and why?

I realize that this will sound corny, but my dad. He’s lived this very interesting life and always has great stories to tell. I find myself referring back to a lot of life lessons he passed on via a humorous anecdote.

What’s your nerdy little secret?

I try so hard to keep these under wraps! I think what often surprises people the most is that I run Linux at home. I also have an obsession with the statistical analysis of [American] football.