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When talking about global platforms for exchanging ideas, "TED Talks" is recognized as one of the leading platforms worldwide. Recently, this idea-sharing stage has opened at Bangkok University under the name "TEDxBangkokU" marking an important step as the first TEDx event at the university. The most impressive aspect is that it was organized entirely (100%) by Bangkok University students.

Sparking Ideas: From Experience to Inspiration

The beginning of TEDxBangkokU came when a member of the Bangkok University Student Union had the opportunity to work with a TEDx team organizing an event at another university. This experience sparked the idea and inspiration to bring this format to their own university. "Experiencing the atmosphere of a TEDx event filled with valuable exchanges of ideas and inspiring presentations created a determination to establish a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences within Bangkok University."

An interesting aspect of TEDx events is their independent format, which allows interested individuals to apply for a license to organize an event without needing to be a large organization. All that's required is a clear concept and adherence to the standards set by TEDx.

First Step to Success: Obtaining the TEDxBangkokU License

For TEDxBangkokU, the Student Union team applied for the license under the name of the 2024 Student Union President, who represented the team of students committed to creating valuable events for the Bangkok University community. "From the beginning of the license application process, there are very clear event standards specified, including required components, rules, and regulations that must be followed. This is beneficial for the work because it provides a clear framework. Once these requirements are met, the event can proceed."

Concept "Out of the Box": A Stage for Limitless Potential

After receiving license approval, the team chose "Out of the Box" as the main concept for the event, focusing on showcasing Bangkok University's creativity with students as the main speakers. "We wanted to establish a long-term standard for this event, making this stage a platform for student work and truly showcasing the ideas of the new generation. Additionally, we had a mission to organize the event in a bilingual format, reflecting the multicultural approach with both Thai and international students."

Behind the Scenes: 100% Student-Powered Team

The key to this success was the collaboration between various teams, all comprised entirely of students. The main teams included: First, the Speaker Selection Team: "The event opened applications for interested students, receiving more interest than anticipated, making the selection process difficult because there were so many potential candidates passionate about sharing their stories. Additionally, the team collaborated with the Business English (International) Program and the Lecture and Debate Club to organize training for the speakers to help develop their speeches and storytelling techniques."

Next, the Design Team: "The event design focused on 'Creative + Inclusivity' as the starting point for the design concept, including the stage, lighting, and colors. TEDx allowed us to think and create freely. The design team worked with the Stage team, emphasizing a 'full experience' for participants, with equipment support from the Communication Arts School, which helped make the work process smoother."

The Translation Team: One of the special features of TEDxBangkokU was its bilingual format, requiring a team with expertise. "The translation team performed live translations through online channels. They received the speakers' scripts in advance to practice translation and understand the basic content. However, the challenge was that speakers often didn't follow their scripts exactly, requiring high concentration and skills for real-time translation. It was a difficult job requiring intense focus with no room for mistakes."

Additionally, there was collaboration with many other clubs and teams, such as the Photography Club, which handled venue decoration, photo booths, and photoshoots; the Media Team, which was behind all content and special clips prepared for the TEDx YouTube channel; special performances from the BUI MUSIC CLUB; and the Sided Activity and Guest Teams.

Creating Special Experiences for Participants

TEDxBangkokU not only presented interesting content but also focused on creating special experiences for all participants. "For this event, we emphasized creating new experiences for the audience, providing brochures with basic information about the speakers, staff available for various services, and free snacks to create an atmosphere similar to watching a movie in a premium theater, ensuring everyone had the best first impression."

After the event, the team received very positive feedback from participants, especially regarding the quality of the speakers, most of whom were students. "Attendees provided feedback that the speakers conveyed their content excellently. Everyone was committed to telling their stories and sharing good insights with the audience. It must be acknowledged that all speakers were very talented, able to attract audience attention with diverse and interesting content. Some even had surprises that impressed everyone at the event."

A Summary of Pride

This first TEDxBangkokU event was not only about creating a valuable platform for exchanging ideas but also proved the potential of Bangkok University students to independently drive a major international event. "This event brought together both Thai and international students as one team, incorporating students from various clubs, friends, seniors, juniors, and many volunteers who worked together without expecting compensation. For many students, this was their first major work experience, but ultimately, the results exceeded expectations, reflecting the power and potential of the new generation ready to learn and face challenges."

This event not only created a valuable experience for the team but also inspired and opened new perspectives for all participants. The warm feedback from attendees is the precious reward that reinforces the success of "TEDxBangkokU," which is not just an ordinary event but the beginning of creating a community for creative exchange of ideas within Bangkok University that will continue and develop in the future.