Margus Sarapuu

Atheist, Care taker, Change Agent, Connector, Consultant, Lawyer, Parent, Policy maker, Public servant

I was born in Soviet Union era Estonia in 1973 and I have witnessed successful transformations from authoritarian state to democracy and from planned economy to market economy. In my professional career in Estonian civil service I have also contributed to this transformation. I have two Master degrees, one in public administration from University of Tartu and another in legal studies from Central European University. I have a family of four, with two daughters 9 and 11 years.

I am passionate about the challenge of introducing open and creative thinking within public non-profit sector managers with a goal to deliver better in conditions of shrinking resources.

The answer is no until it is yes. This is more like principle, but reflects the idea behind TED movement that makes you question established ideas and push forward with new ideas. Usually the answer is no until one manages to convince of the advantage of a new idea and turns opposition to support.

Better regulation, Coaching, Policy Advice, Policy analysis & Development, Policy coordination

I like the universal and standardized TED format and platform that makes it possible to spread innovative and unconventional ideas beyond closed classrooms and auditoriums. Decisive moment to proceed was when I found my teammates with a similar passion at the training on public sector innovation. Best thing was that we had too little experience to be afraid of this responsibility and burden that comes along with organizing TEDx event.

being open to new ideas and taking risks