By Jim Carchidi
January 12, 2026
Orange County Convention Center's newly-renovated Linda W. Chapin Theater is set to host the first TEDxOrlando event since 2018. The renowned innovation platform will launch a new schedule of events led by local visionaries, beginning with a full-day Flagship event on Saturday, Oct. 17.
TEDxOrlando leaders Liam Rogers and Nick Rogers bring a decade of experience producing the celebrated event series, TEDxKingstonUponThames, welcoming more than 3,000 attendees and producing more than 70 TEDx Talks since 2016.
“Orlando is a growing city shaped by people brimming with energy and new ideas,” said Liam Rogers. “TEDx is about creating a space where those ideas collide, connect, and inspire action.”
Setting the tone
TEDxOrlando will feature its Flagship event at the newly-renovated Linda W. Chapin Theater. The program will focus on exploring the 2026/27 season theme, The Space Between, which references the region’s history with space exploration. The theme is also a nod to the TEDxOrlando mission of bridging disciplines and connecting communities.
Partnerships
Ken Pozek of the Pozek Group and The Orlando Real has been confirmed as the first speaker for the October event.
The Flagship event has announced its first speaker, Pozek Group CEO and founder of The Orlando Real, Ken Pozek. One of the region’s most influential local commentators, his opening talk will explore how Orlando can become the next great American city.
“I’m excited to open TEDxOrlando by reflecting on where we’ve come from, where we’re headed, and how we - as a community - can shape what comes next,” Pozek said. “Orlando is at an inflection point. Growth is booming, but the choices we make now will determine what kind of city we become.”
Shara Pathak, founder of the TapNGo RFID and Brewlando, has signed on as a TEDxOrlando sponsor.
TEDxOrlando has also announced its first sponsor, Shara Pathak, founder of the TapNGo RFID cashless purchasing platform and Brewlando, Central Florida's largest brewery and the official craft beer of UCF Athletics. Attendees at TEDxOrlando will have the opportunity to experience both brands during and after the event.
“TEDx is about ideas, energy, and community,” said Pathak. “I'm proud to support TEDxOrlando as it creates a space for people to come together, share bold ideas, and celebrate what this city can become.”
TEDxOrlando currently identifying companies and groups who care to invest in the region’s cultural and intellectual future. Those interested in being a sponsor are invited to connect by emailing partnerships@tedxorlando.live.
Tickets for the October 17 event are available at www.tedxorlando.live.
Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.
About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.
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