Bermuda may be small in size, but it’s big in ideas.This is the thinking behind the launch of TEDxBermuda, which aims to give people from all walks of life a world platform to share what they know.Experts will be invited to give insightful presentations to create interest and start conversations in “any topic worth spreading”.The wide range of speakers will talk about new ideas, current events and major issues impacting both the Island and the world. But the clock will be ticking, as they will only have 18 minutes to get everything off their chest.The non-profit organisation is operating under a licence from TED, which started as a four-day conference in California 26 years ago. TED speakers have included Bill Gates, Sir Richard Branson and former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown.John Narraway, chairman of TEDxBermuda, believes the new organisation will “enlighten our community” by giving residents the “truth and reality” of what’s going on.He said: “So many Bermudians have such wonderful ideas but they don’t have the platform to share them. This will put the Island on a global stage and expand our thinking of what is possible.“There is so much we could be sharing with others. This is the opportunity for leaders to talk about what they are doing.“But each speaker only gets 18 minutes to get their ideas across. It doesn’t matter who you are or how important you are.”The idea for TEDxBermuda was initially discussed at the end of last year as TED videos were said to be responsible for creating so much discussion in Bermuda.A committee was then formed to “make it happen” and the organisation became a reality by setting up a website and planning its inaugural event.TEDxBermuda is to hold its first event at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute on Saturday, April 23 from 1pm to 6pm. Nine speakers have already agreed to take part and there will also be several pre-recorded presentations.Guest speakers, who will not be paid, include former pro cyclist Jonathan Vaughters, Bermuda Shark Project director Neil Burnie, artist Graham Foster, BIOS senior research scientist Michael Lomas and Alan Gilbertson, founder of FoodBank South Africa.Mr Narraway, who is the president and founder of the LYTERGroup, said the event should appeal to everyone, as it will “jump from one topic to another”. He wants people from all walks of life to come together to “share a TED-like experience”.Mr Narraway said: “We are appealing to absolutely everyone who is curious.“The topics being covered will be immense. Everyone’s minds will be stretched from one dimension to another.“We expect people to sit back and be in awe of what’s happening and be inspired by what’s going on.”All videos of the speakers from this event will then be available free-of-charge on the organisation’s website.TEDxBermuda plan to go on to organise full-day events with international guests who are visiting the Island.Tickets for next month’s event cost $80 and include membership, which gives access and discounts to future events.For tickets visit www.tedxbermuda.com or telephone 705-9837. TEDxBermuda can also be followed on Facebook and Twitter.