MIND, MACHINE, MEANING

Saturday 27TH JUNE 2026 @ ARENA THEATRE, WOLVES

2026!

Mind, Machine, Meaning

From the first simple tools to today’s artificial intelligence, people have always built machines to push the limits of what we can do and what we can imagine. Now, as the line between human thought and machine intelligence becomes less clear, we are faced with some big questions. What does it really mean to be human? How do we understand consciousness, creativity and connection when machines are no longer just tools but partners in our lives?

“Machine” can mean more than wires and circuits. It can be the structures we build together: our economies, our cities, our cultures and our communities. It can be the infrastructures that hold our lives in motion, or even the astonishing mechanics of the human mind itself. This opens up the question: are we simply machines, or are we something richer, more layered, more complex, more human?

At TEDxWolverhampton 2026, we will invite applications to aid discussions and share ideas that sit at the crossroads of imagination, innovation and meaning. From neuroscience to algorithms, philosophy to art, we will hear stories and insights that show how our minds shape machines, how machines shape us, and how this ongoing relationship is shaping the future we are creating together.

To find out more about applying to become a speaker, please click here.

Meet the Hosts

 

Meet our hosts for TEDxWolverhampton 2026…

Tonia Daley-Campbell

Tonia Daley-Campbell is a proud Wolverhampton actress, writer, director, producer, community activist and presenter. As a mother of 4 and a foster carer, she’s not shy of hard work.

Tonia runs her own drama group ACTS and is also the young children’s agent at Red Talent Management. Tonia is always very committed to finding and supporting hidden talent.

Currently Tonia is producing a  brand new Birmingham/West Midlands based TV series “Lucid The Dreamwalker” a psychological thriller and story of discovery, which will be featured at this years MCM comic con Birmingham NEC. Tonia sold out her local theatre Newhampton Arts Centre with her one act play “Dr King The Aftermath”, which was also featured on BBC news for black history month. Tonia has published her first book “39 steps to 40” and recently won 2 x awards at the Enter Stage Write competion, which saw her short play Truth performed in front of industry professionals from BBC, Channel 4, writers Guild, and ITV.

She has recently opened up a brand new TV, Film and Theatre production company called Themis Creative limited with Business partner and friend Oraine Johnson. Tonia is well known for her infectious laugh.

Dr Martin Khechara

Martin Khechara is an Associate Professor for Engagement in science technology engineering and maths (STEM) at the University of Wolverhampton. Martin is a medical microbiologist, researcher and educator who has an international profile for his work in higher education.

He is also a professional science communicator, presenter, writer, director, and science theatre performer who believes in that study at university can change lives. He is a champion of social change and actively works in the community with the award-winning STEM response Team to bring the magic of STEM subjects to those that need it the most’.

Dee Roberts-Molloy

Dee Roberts-Molloy! Dee is originally from Birmingham, but has adopted Wolverhampton as her home. She is a highly skilled facilitator, speaker and leader. She is currently Head of People Solutions and has had a varying career in HR, Learning & Development, Talent Management and managing services supporting people through homelessness, domestic abuse, complex needs, mental health and addiction.

She advocates for better mental wealth and champions disabilities, as she is visually and hearing impaired.

She is passionate about people, inclusion and developing people to be the best they can be, by injecting passion and creativity in everything she does. She has an amazing ability to engage her audience, being creative and innovative whilst ensuring she motivates and encourages others along the way professional and personally as a coach and mentor.

She was one of the Top 10 International Diversity and Inclusion Champions to follow in 2024 and nominated for The Diversity Power List 2024.

Meet the INTERVIEWEES

 

Meet our interviewees for in our Fireside Chat sections of our TEDxWolverhampton 2026 event.

Sam Weber

Sam Weber is an adventurer, leader, and business strategist who rowed 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean in 53 days. After capsizing in 20-foot waves and being thrown overboard, he faced fear, loss, and doubt — yet discovered that resilience and leadership aren’t built in calm waters, but in chaos.

By focusing on small wins, teamwork, and belief, his crew rebuilt from despair to triumph. Sam now shares how those same principles apply to business, leadership, and life — showing that whether you’re facing a storm in the ocean, your career, or your relationships, strength is found one stroke at a time.

Meet the PERFORMERS

 

TO BE ANNOUNCED SHORTLY!

MEET THE TEAM

 

We have some fantastic individuals involved in TEDxWolverhampton, find out more about our team of Wonderful Wulfrunians…

Clare Roberts-Molloy

CURATOR

A born and bred Wulfrunian Clare is passionate about Wolverhampton and promoting everything the city and its residents has to offer. A bid and tender writer by profession, for the past 12 years Clare has been a Magistrate in the Black Country on the Black Country Bench.

Passionate about promoting women’s rights and gender equality, Clare is the founder of Fawcett West Midlands, a long standing director of Women of Wolverhampton, Founder and Chair of the Homeless Period – Wolverhampton, and was Chair of Wolverhampton Women’s Business Forum for a number of years.

In 2018, Clare applied for and was granted the licence for TEDxWolverhampton, with the aim of putting Wolverhampton on the map. As event Curator, Clare is responsible for bringing TEDxWolverhampton to life and ensuring attendees have a fantastic experience.

@cecroberts

Zoe Mason

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Zoe Mason is a dynamic force within the TEDx Wolverhampton team, having been an integral part of its journey since its inception. With a fervent dedication to bringing TEDx to the heart of the community, Zoe has voluntarily worked with the TEDx Wolverhampton team to elevate the platform and make it a cornerstone of Wolverhampton’s intellectual and cultural landscape.

A local social historian by trade, Zoe brings a unique blend of academic rigor and community spirit to the table. Graduating from Wolverhampton University with a degree in History, and later completing a Master’s in Data Science, Zoe has always been driven by a passion for uncovering narratives and giving voice to the unheard.

Beyond academia, Zoe proudly serves as the Student Recruitment Manager at the University of Wolverhampton, where she champions the transformative power of higher education. With an unwavering belief in the life-changing benefits of pursuing one’s passions, Zoe encourages others to find their place in the world and make their mark.

As a proud Wulfrunian, Zoe is deeply rooted in her hometown and is a fervent advocate for its diverse voices and narratives. Whether it’s delving into the annals of history or amplifying contemporary stories, Zoe is committed to ensuring that every voice is heard, and every story is told.

In her capacity as the Production Director for TEDx Wolverhampton, Zoe amalgamates her expertise in history, data science, and community engagement to orchestrate enriching experiences that ignite conversations and catalyse change. Her dedication also contributes to the ongoing legacy of TEDx Wolverhampton, ensuring its position as a beacon of innovation, inclusivity, and empowerment within the community.

Simon Gordon

WEBSITE & SOCIAL MEDIA DIRECTOR

Simon, a skilled creative director in social media and web design, utilises photography, videography, and graphic design.

Simon is the founder of Alexander Media Creative, which is a creative agency providing digital solutions to both personal and business clients. The main goal of his company is to help business owners create a quality representation of their business online using digital content.

Partnering with TEDx Wolverhampton offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with diverse industry experts, curate inspirational content, and promote career and personal growth, fostering a culture of professional and personal development.

@Simon Gordon

Anju Dhir

PARTNERSHIPS DIRECTOR

Anju is a passionate leader, mother, guest podcaster, school governor, guest lecturer at university, coach and mentor, and public sector worker who works in environmental health, health and wellbeing, and engagement and communications. One of Anju’s core values is growth for herself and those around her. So volunteering for TEDxWolverhampton is aligned to her passions, ensuring the event is enlightening, informative, and provides an opportunity to network with great minds in our wonderful city!

Rachael Matthews

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Rachael is the Creative Director for TEDx Wolverhampton – a role that blends her love for creativity, collaboration and community. An Organisational Development specialist with a background in textile and print design, Rachael takes every opportunity to flex her creative flair in everything she does.
Rachael’s eye for design and passion for connection shape how TEDx Wolverhampton looks and feels. Creating an experience that’s as thoughtful as it is unforgettable.

Martin Khechara

EVENT HOST

Martin Khechara is an Associate Professor for Engagement in science technology engineering and maths (STEM) at the University of Wolverhampton. Martin is a medical microbiologist, researcher and educator who has an international profile for his work in higher education.

He is also a professional science communicator, presenter, writer, director, and science theatre performer who believes in that study at university can change lives. He is a champion of social change and actively works in the community with the award-winning STEM response Team to bring the magic of STEM subjects to those that need it the most’.

Dee Roberts-Molloy

EVENT HOST

Dee Roberts-Molloy! Dee is originally from Birmingham, but has adopted Wolverhampton as her home. She is a highly skilled facilitator, speaker and leader. She is currently Head of People Solutions and has had a varying career in HR, Learning & Development, Talent Management and managing services supporting people through homelessness, domestic abuse, complex needs, mental health and addiction.

She advocates for better mental wealth and champions disabilities, as she is visually and hearing impaired.

She is passionate about people, inclusion and developing people to be the best they can be, by injecting passion and creativity in everything she does. She has an amazing ability to engage her audience, being creative and innovative whilst ensuring she motivates and encourages others along the way professional and personally as a coach and mentor.

She was one of the Top 10 International Diversity and Inclusion Champions to follow in 2024 and nominated for The Diversity Power List 2024.

Tonia Daley-Campbell

EVENT HOST

Tonia Daley-Campbell is a creative freelancer who has been working in the creative industries for over 25 years. She is a writer/director, actor, compère and recent casting director for Heart Casting. She is the annual host for Tedx Wolverhampton, and hosted MAWA theatre companies, all black female Shakespearean monologue slam, at the Sam Wannamaker playhouse the Globe.

Tonia is the Audience Development consultant and chair of the Black African and Caribbean ambassadors for The Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. Tonia was nominated for a Black British Theatre award in 2022 for her pioneering work in theatre. She won Enter Stage Write Audience and Judges awards for her short play, Truth.

Tonia is an associate director for Gazebo Theatre and prides herself on highlighting hidden stories from history with a particular focus on black women. Tonia is an energetic whirlwind of creative energy; she creates open safe spaces for creatives to be inspired and thrive.

PARTNERS

 

Meet our partners for TEDxWolverhampton 2026…
If you would like to become a sponsor of our 2026 event, please visit https://tedxwolverhampton.com/sponsorships/

CONNECT WITH US

Join our mailing list to receive updates via email.

What is TEDx?

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TED has created a program called TEDx. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience.

Our event is called TEDxWolverhampton, where x = independently organized TED event.

At our event, TED Talks video and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events, including ours, are self-organized.

NEXT EVENT DATE:

Sat 27th June 2026, Arena Theatre

Join our mailing list to receive updates via email

This independent TEDx event is operated under license from TED.

Website by Alexander Media Creative

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