Our fifth annual TEDx event took place last month. Below is a detailed encounter written by Ishan (U6H3), 2026 TEDx Lead Organiser.
This year marked the biggest TEDxHabs Elstree Youth event to date, with our largest-ever audience at the fifth annual conference.
For the first time, we also welcomed the Prep School alongside boys and girls from the Middle School. This was a major milestone for our annual event, bringing our “Moments that Matter” theme to life as a truly whole-school experience and our most ambitious TEDx yet.
Our speaker line-up reflected the breadth of the theme. A former Deputy Prime Minister delivered a particularly perceptive talk on democracy, linking modern civic responsibility to lessons from German history. We also enjoyed an unforgettable visual extravaganza from a professional photographer, using striking images to reveal the funny side of nature and encourage us to see the world differently. For the Sixth Form, one of the most impactful sessions explored ego, depression, and how we respond to challenge. This was a truly honest and valuable conversation that resonated strongly with students.
The programme also ranged widely across ideas and disciplines, with talks exploring technology, AI and the future, career opportunities, poetry, and even hands – showing how meaningful “Moments that Matter” can emerge from any field when approached with curiosity and purpose. The day ended with a super engaging, concert-like final talk that brought the audience together while exploring the key skills that contribute to a good life, leaving students with practical takeaways as well as inspiration.
A major achievement this year was that we doubled the number of student talks delivered at TEDxHabs Elstree Youth. Student speakers stepped up with confidence and originality, including outstanding talks on the illusion of time and the impact of colonialism, demonstrating the depth of thought and courage that TEDx helps to bring out in young people.
It has been a privilege for the organising team to lead what has been an incredible TEDx event this year having seen the event continue to grow in size and aspiration, and we are excited to see what next year’s committee will deliver.
Related posts
See all posts
