By Guest commentary Monday, March 31st, 2025

Dear Editor,

Santa Barbara has always been a city of ideas. From environmental activism to technological innovation, we’ve led conversations that shape the future. 

However, when public discourse is often divided, and big ideas get lost in the noise, we need spaces where thoughtful dialogue and new perspectives can thrive. That’s where TEDxSantaBarbara comes in.

Over the past decade, TEDxSantaBarbara has brought together visionaries, entrepreneurs, scientists, and artists to share groundbreaking ideas with our community and the world. Before COVID-19, we hosted over 100 in-person talks that have been viewed more than 35 million times. 

These ideas have sparked conversations and led to real-world change, from sustainability initiatives to advancements in mental health advocacy.

Then came the pandemic. 

Live events ceased as the world shut down, but that didn’t stop us. We launched the Making Waves Salon series, a virtual platform that kept meaningful conversations alive when we needed them most. 

These 175 salons, held over Zoom, became a lifeline for engagement, connecting people across Santa Barbara and beyond with essential ideas.

Now, we’re bringing TEDxSantaBarbara back to where it belongs—in the heart of our community. 

This year, we’re hosting four live Salons at the Santa Barbara Public Library, offering a space for in-person connection, dialogue, and inspiration. 

These events are more than just talks; they are opportunities to rebuild community, spark collaboration, and inspire action.

Alongside our Salons, we are thrilled to bring TED Live to Santa Barbara, an exclusive event where attendees can experience the globally renowned TED Conference in real time. 

This event, which will take place on April 19th at the Faulkner Gallery in the Santa Barbara Public Library, will enable our community to engage with innovative ideas and leading global thinkers without leaving town, further establishing Santa Barbara as a hub for innovation and progressive discussions.

Why does this matter? Ideas drive progress. 

Santa Barbara faces significant challenges—climate change, housing issues, technological disruption—and these discussions guide us toward the future with knowledge, creativity, and hope. 

TEDxSantaBarbara isn’t just an event; it’s a catalyst for change, empowerment, and community connection.

So, as we step into this new chapter, we invite you to join the conversation. Your voice matters whether you attend a Salon, watch a talk, or share an idea. Let’s continue to make waves together.

For more information on our upcoming events, visit TEDxSantaBarbara.com.

Mark Sylvester, Executive Producer, TEDxSantaBarbara