By Reneska Moodley
Lakshana Devi Beegun, Senior Graduate Teaching Assistant in Business Management at Middlesex University Mauritius, has made remarkable strides in her career since graduating in June 2021. With an unwavering commitment to inspiring and empowering students, Lakshana organized a TEDx event at Middlesex University, a significant milestone that exemplifies her dedication and passion for education and leadership.
Lakshana’s journey with TED Talks began during her university years, attending her first TEDx event, TEDxPlainesWilhems in Mauritius. This experience sparked a desire to bring a similar event to Middlesex University Mauritius to inspire students and provide them with a platform to share their ideas. Despite initial challenges, such as a lack of experience, confidence, and resources, securing a position at Middlesex University Mauritius was a turning point. Encouraged by the support of her superiors and colleagues, she was able to write a proposal, present it to the Director, and launch the TEDx event.
The most significant challenge she faced was ensuring adherence to TEDx guidelines. Every detail required meticulous attention to maintain compliance and uphold the integrity of the TEDx community. Open communication with TED and TEDx throughout the process was crucial in addressing any uncertainties and ensuring the event’s success. Lakshana and her team focused on curating a speaker lineup that resonated with the academic interests and expertise of the students. By leveraging the team’s extensive network, they secured speakers who brought diverse perspectives and backgrounds. Pre-talk meetings with the speakers allowed for alignment with the event’s theme while encouraging creativity. The inclusion of four talented students as speakers added a unique and personal touch to the event.
Securing the TEDx license was the initial and most time-consuming step. Once approved, TED and TEDx provided comprehensive guidelines and a roadmap for successful event execution. Lakshana and her team maintained open communication with TED and TEDx, ensuring all queries were promptly addressed and that the event adhered to the highest standards. She is enthusiastic about making TEDxMiddlesex an annual event, continuing to inspire and empower students through this platform. One of the most significant moments for her was receiving the green light from her director, whose encouraging words fueled her determination and confidence. The entire experience, from brainstorming with the team to hearing the powerful stories of the speakers, was incredibly memorable and inspiring.
Lakshana offers valuable advice for those planning their first TEDx event: organize a TEDx because you want to, not because you have to; have an overarching theme and abide by it, as their AIM motto—amplify voices, inspire the audience, and mobilize them to take action—guided their event; familiarize yourself with the guidelines and ensure everyone on the team knows them; gather a good team of volunteers who are great team players; choose your speakers carefully and get them to rehearse on set to familiarize themselves with the stage and setup; and plan for potential shortcomings before, during, and after the event. Lastly, she emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey with a team that shares the same vision and aspirations.
