BU Students Prove Their Skills on the TEDxBangkokU Stage Year 2
Bangkok University hosted the world-class TEDxBangkokU seminar for the second consecutive year — and this time, it wasn't simply a repeat. It was an elevation of every dimension like never before. Powered by a student team drawn from faculties across the university — including Bangkok University International, School of Communication Arts, School of Digital Media and Cinematic Arts, School of Business Administration, School of Entrepreneurship and Management, School of Humanities and Tourism Management, School of Information Technology and Innovation, School of Engineering and School of Fine and Applied Arts united by inspiration, expertise, and the courage to attempt something they had never done before.
Starting from Strangers
What set TEDxBangkokU Year 2 apart was how the team was assembled — students from different faculties and disciplines brought together through varied and compelling paths. Some were invited by friends, some were recruited from other events, and some were approached directly by the License Holder mid-event. This reflected a core philosophy of selecting people based on demonstrable ability. The result was a team that worked together for five full months with virtually no turnover — a success attributed to two key factors: matching people to the right roles, and fostering a problem-solving culture.
Stepping Beyond Campus Walls onto a Truly International Stage
This year, TEDxBangkokU extended its reach beyond the university to engage with foreign embassies, raising the bar across all dimensions — communication protocols, working processes, and the selection of speakers with a genuinely international profile. The Head of Audience noted: "This year we did not accept walk-in attendees. Applicants had to submit their reasons for attending and areas of interest, ensuring every seat was filled by someone who truly wanted to listen — and the result was a full house."
The Hidden Details Behind the Success
The Exhibition Zone outside the main hall was meticulously designed — from floor maps and 3D SketchUp renderings to the careful control of corporate identity and visual direction, all aligned with the event's central theme. This was not empty space between sessions; it was a deliberately crafted part of the audience experience.
The Animation team of over 20 members translated the theme of "Leadership" into space-themed visuals blending the university's signature purple and silver, symbolizing transcending limitations. One major challenge was the venue's blue-violet lighting, which demanded advanced color-balancing skills.
Even the music was carefully considered — Folk Song and Jazz were chosen to match the event's intended emotional tone. "We wanted a theme that felt classy, reflecting the power and resilience of true leadership."
A Vision Larger Than the Event
The success of this year's event is not the destination — it is the first step toward something greater. "We want TEDx to become the university's core academic event, driven by students themselves. We want this brand to be permanently associated with Bangkok University — not just a club event that ends and is forgotten, but a university-scale event that grows and is passed on every year."
To the Juniors Still Hesitating: Dare to Join First, Grow Later
"This is one of the best portfolio-building experiences you can have. If you tell someone you worked on TEDx, they immediately understand what you've been through," the team shared. The Animation team added: "Don't be afraid that your skills aren't ready. Start with small tasks, and you'll grow from there."
The closing thought may be the most fitting summary of all: "Even if you're scared — come try anyway. Because all of us here were scared too. But five months later, we're still standing."
TEDxBangkokU Year 2 has concluded — but what it proved endures: when students are given opportunity, trust, and a great team, they can build an international stage with their own hands.
A Selection of Team Members — TEDxBangkokU Year 2
Narubet Rakwijit
Phupa Thumchan
Chawanluk Phuangpansee
Chanya Yamyuean
Nitchanan Sawangkit
Prasutorn Kulchatsuwan
Thitirat Rammayan
Reiko A-raya Tanaka
Kethsawin Kummanochart
Thanatchaporn Lee
Sutirada Wisessak
Chayaphon Wongyai
