TEDxMethodist College Belfast Youth

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Alison Buick

  Head of Global Business Development

  Alison sits at the intersection of science and business - specialising in innovative technologies for neurological conditions in healthcare and clinical trials. With a PhD in neuroscience followed by a career bridging academia and industry, Alison has led global clinical research operations and now drives business development with biopharma partners. She is deeply motivated to transform approaches to clinical research: to accelerate progress, generate richer datasets, and ultimately deliver more effective healthcare outcomes.

• Ela .

  Pupil and Methodist College Belfast

  Ela is a thoughtful digital native interested in how social media shapes the way we think and feel. Her talk reveals how even the smallest online interactions can create powerful ripple effects on our wellbeing and communities. She encourages young people to take control of their feeds and use technology more intentionally.

• Inioluwa .

  Pupil at Methodist College Belfast

  Inioluwa is a courageous and resilient young advocate who has transformed personal hardship into powerful action. After facing repeated rejection while trying to secure a school place, she found her voice, spoke up for herself, and eventually addressed the Northern Ireland Assembly — a moment that ignited her passion for change. Using her experience to open doors for other young people who faced similar barriers, she demonstrates how one act of courage can spark a ripple effect of opportunity and hope.

• Jackson .

  Pupil at Methodist College Belfast

  Jackson is a dedicated sports enthusiast whose talk explores how discipline, mindset, and a strong environment can fuel success. Drawing on examples from elite sport, he shows how small actions can build momentum and inspire communities. His message highlights that success isn’t accidental — it’s built step by step.

• Kara Owen

  Ambassador

  Kara Owen CMG CVO is the British Ambassador to Ireland, a role she assumed in September 2025 after an extensive diplomatic career that includes serving as the UK’s High Commissioner to Singapore and holding senior positions across the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, with postings in Paris, Hanoi and Hong Kong. At TEDx, she will deliver her talk “Five Moments,” reflecting on five defining experiences that shaped her leadership, her approach to diplomacy, and the positive impact she has sought to create throughout her career.

• Kevin Daly

  Economicst

  Kevin Daly OBE is a leading economist whose career spans more than two decades at the forefront of global macroeconomic analysis. His work bridges global markets, public policy and economic insight, shaping understanding of issues such as economic growth, demographic change and financial conditions, and how these forces affect societies and investors. In recognition of his contribution to the field, he was awarded an OBE by the King for services to economics.

• Lillian .

  Pupil at Methodist College Belfast

  Lillian is a passionate young speaker who believes in the power of taking risks and sharing ideas. Her talk explores how overcoming the fear of failure can unlock hidden potential and spark meaningful change. She hopes to inspire others to step forward, speak up, and create their own ripple effect.

• Maya .

  Pupil at Methodist College Belfast

  Maya is a thoughtful young speaker whose work explores the relationship between rest, creativity, and modern life. Drawing from her own experience with burnout and the pressure to be constantly productive, she highlights how stillness and “doing nothing” can unlock our most original ideas. Through her talk, Maya encourages others to protect quiet moments, embrace reflection, and rediscover the power of slowing down.

• Paul Marshall

  Player Development Manager for Ulster Rugby

  Paul Marshall is the Player Development Manager for Ulster Rugby, supporting athletes on and off the field. A former professional rugby player, he brings deep insight into the high‑performance sporting environment. Paul is passionate about developing people, building resilience, and nurturing future talent.

• Raimonds .

  Pupil at Methodist College Belfast

  Raimonds is a thoughtful and compassionate young speaker who is passionate about helping others recognise their value and potential. Drawing on the powerful metaphor of the “crab bucket,” his talk explores how self‑doubt, comparison, and negativity can hold people back — and how kindness, confidence, and encouragement can lift entire communities. Raimonds hopes to inspire others to break free from limiting beliefs, uplift those around them, and create positive ripples through everyday acts of empowerment.

• Sinéad Lunny

  Lawyer, entrepreneur, vocal communication and leadership trainer.

  Sinéad Lunny is a lawyer, entrepreneur, vocal communication and leadership trainer, lecturer, actor, voiceover artist and keynote speaker. With over twenty years of experience spanning legal advocacy, higher education, professional training and theatre performance, she brings a research-informed, practice-based approach to leadership communication and decision-making. Alongside her academic work, she supports organisations and individuals in developing presence and speaking with greater gravitas. She has received several business awards, an international award for Best Actress in a short film, and has recited poetry for the Queen.