TEDxMaui 2012: Frequently Asked Questions

This blog post contains a collection of the answers to the most common questions people ask about TEDxMaui. The organizers consider this a “must-read” for attendees, and for people considering purchasing tickets to our upcoming event.

How is a TEDx event different from a TED conference?
TED conferences are organized and run directly by TED. TEDx events are fully planned and coordinated independently, on a community-by-community basis. The goal of TEDx is to inspire a passion for spreading ideas in local communities from within.

Why was the TEDx program created?
TED launched the TEDx program to help individuals, schools, and organizations create and host their own local, unofficial, TED-style events, using a mix of TED video and live speakers — and in doing so, release TED free to the world. Created in the spirit of TED’s mission, “ideas worth spreading,” the TEDx program is designed to give communities, organizations and individuals the opportunity to stimulate dialogue through TED-like experiences at the local level. TEDx events are fully planned and coordinated independently, on a community-by-community basis.

Can a TEDx event focus on one specific subject or discipline?
No. TEDx events are multidisciplinary. An event may have a theme, but it must be broad enough to encompass many different disciplines, specialties and branches of knowledge.

Who owns the TEDxTalks?
The content of a TEDxTalk is owned by the speaker; the talk itself is collaboratively shared under a Creative Commons license.

How are the presenters selected?
The most important part of any TEDx event is the program and TEDxMaui 2012 speakers were selected based on their “idea worth sharing.” We carefully considered all speaker nominations, applications, and community feedback in our program development process.

Can I volunteer or trade my services at TEDxMaui 2012 in exchange for a ticket?
TEDxMaui does not have any trade or volunteer positions available in exchange for complementary tickets. We have been able to offer a very limited number of tickets to those who are providing what we consider to be critical services. TEDxMaui is funded entirely through ticket sales, sponsorships with community partners, and in-kind donations of products and services . Without financial support from ticket holders, TEDxMaui would not be possible.

I am a member of the press. How do I get a press pass to cover the event?
While we encourage members of the media to attend TEDxMaui and to report on the event, we are not able to issue complementary press passes. If you would like to interview one of our speakers, contact karen@tedxmaui.47scapes.net.

Will I be able to see the speaker schedule before the event?
We will not be posting our speaker schedule prior to the event. The event’s schedule is designed so each attendee has the opportunity to watch each presentation. The full magic of a TEDx event comes through spending the entire day listening to all of the inspiring presentations, learning new ideas, and making new connections that will continually serve your personal and professional growth. We encourage you to come with an open mind, sit next to someone you don’t know and come ready to experience a full day “brain spa.”

How can I best prepare for the event?
Take some time to think about your goals, dreams, and passions and come prepared to share them with other attendees. Make the most of this opportunity to make new connections. We encourage you to get to know our speakers by researching their work online. We also recommend getting a good night’s sleep the night before!

Are there student or senior tickets available at a reduced rate?
A limited number of reduced price student and senior tickets are available to purchase through The Maui Arts & Cultural Center. Student/senior tickets are $75 and available on a first come, first serve basis. A student ID must be presented to purchase a Student price ticket. Picture ID required for Seniors (65+) to purchase tickets at the discounted price. One ticket sold per ID.

Will I be able to talk to the presenters, one-on-one?
While we cannot guarantee an opportunity to speak one on one with our presenters, we encourage them to participate in all networking breaks and attend the evening reception.

How should I plan my day? What time should I arrive?
What time does the event conclude? Plan on arriving at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center early to register, pick up your gift bag, enjoy coffee and a continental breakfast, and meet other attendees. Registration begins at 7:30am. Our program will start promptly at 9am. There will be four “sessions” of presentations with two networking breaks, and a lunch break at 1pm. There will be snacks and beverages available throughout the day. Immediately following the conclusion of the presentations at 6pm, ticket holders are invited to an evening reception featuring live music and light pupus. The reception concludes at 9pm.