TEDx Amsterdam

2009-11-20

I´m in the train going back to Groningen, exhausted after a very long day attending TEDx Amsterdam. But, what a day! Last evening I was wondering whether it was worth traveling to Amsterdam and spending the whole day attending talks that I could also follow live through the internet. Today I can say that the answer is a resounding yes. Those of you that tweeted that you feel jealous for not attending TEDx, believe me: you missed more than you can imagine. Being in the same room with the amazing speakers that took the stage at TEDx made all the difference in the world. Their enthusiasm, their passion, their fascination were palpable and inspirational.

Serious accolades should be directed to the (volunteer!) organizers of TEDx Amsterdam. Although there were some organizational hiccups these were minor and everything proceeded smoothly enough (at least for the audience). And the organizers really shined at the amazing selection of speakers.

I suppose that the talks will become available at the TEDx Amsterdam website. If you are pressed for time I suggest to watch at least the talk of Frans Timmermans that proves that there is intelligent life in politics and the inspirational talk by Jacob Gelt Dekker. If you are not pressed for time then watch everything. It is definitely worth it.

If it is possible, try to get invited at the next TEDx Amsterdam. And in the case that you don´t succeed here is a useful tip courtesy of Joris Luyendijk: try your best Job Cohen impersonation.