TEDxOshawa (Ontario, Canada) Open Speaker Applications
Deadline: October 15, 2026
TEDxOshawa is looking for speakers for its May 2027 event under the theme UncharTED. The application is detailed so take a look at the requirements below and how you can prepare your application.
Key Event Details
TEDxOshawa
Location: Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Event Date: Saturday, May 1, 2027
Application Deadline: October 15, 2026
Theme: UncharTED
Talks may be either 10 or 12 minutes, although selected speakers may not receive the full time requested.
Successful applicants are expected to hear from the team during November 2026. Only applicants moving forward may be contacted.
Theme: UncharTED
The organizers have not included a longer explanation of UncharTED in the application. My read is that it leaves room for ideas that help us explore something overlooked, question an existing map, or navigate a future we do not fully understand yet.
Who Is This For
There is no explicit residency requirement listed on the application. However, TEDxOshawa describes itself as a community-focused organization supporting talent, ideas, and innovation in Oshawa and the surrounding Durham Region. Applicants from outside Ontario should still think carefully about why this particular community is the right audience for their idea.
About the Organizers and Community
TEDxOshawa is a volunteer-led nonprofit organization founded in 2023 by Faris Mahoon Siddiqui and Chad Andress.
According to its website, the team has already brought 45 speakers and entertainers to its stage. It also provides selected speakers with an in-depth development program lasting more than six months. The training is provided free of charge, and speakers do not pay to participate.
The organization says its mission is to spark creativity and innovation while shining a light on talent and ideas across disciplines, particularly within Oshawa and Durham Region.
How to Apply
This is what you’ll need to submit on the application form:
Your contact information and location
Your job title, organization, and professional address
Your talk category
Your preferred talk length
A proposed title and short description of your idea
Three to four sentences explaining why the idea is worth sharing
Three to four sentences explaining how the idea addresses a societal or human challenge
Your relevant credentials, experience, and connection to the idea
An audience call to action of 50 words or fewer
Details of any previous TEDx appearance
A link to your professional biography or LinkedIn profile
Your social media links
One favorite TED or TEDx talk and why you like it
A custom one-to-two-minute application video
Application Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScUbdEkaAy8IpOT4MoQE_2JGvWO7YUAcvT7OmE0W9Y4pf5htQ/viewform?usp=header
Website for More Info: https://www.tedxoshawa.com/
Social Media for Updates: https://www.instagram.com/tedxoshawa/ , https://ca.linkedin.com/company/tedxoshawa
The October deadline gives you time, but this is not a quick application. You will need a clear idea, differentiated positioning, credible support, and a video pitch created specifically for this event.
Need Help?
You can absolutely figure this out on your own using what I share here, but I know the process can feel a lot faster and less overwhelming when you have someone in your corner.
That’s why I offer different ways to support you depending on where you are:
Just getting started → Join the Live masterclass to understand how the process works and what to do next
Refining your idea → Book a 1:1 Idea Session to turn your topic into a clear idea
Ready to apply → Book a 1:1 Strategy + application Session to submit strong, well-positioned applications
🔴 See all your options: Choose Your Path
Whether you’re here just for the open calls or you want more hands-on support, I’ve got you.
And if there’s something you want me to break down or a location you’re looking for, just hit reply or email me at geleen@travelnottoescape.com.
I’m rooting for you!
Geleen Antonio
Let’s Connect on Linkedin | Get Support on Your Application
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