Past TEDx event

TEDxUNSW Salon

Wildcard

Took placeJuly 17, 2025
LocationSydney, New South Wales, Australia
FormatSalon
Wildcard means we celebrate the unpredictable. Individuals, ideas, and moments that arrive seemingly out of nowhere, yet cause a significant shift in the way we think, feel, or act. A wildcard may be overlooked at first, but in time reveals itself as a game-changer - a hidden card in the deck that holds surprises. 4 speakers. 4 suits. Join us on the 17th of July 2025 where 4 speakers challenge the expected and embrace the unknown.

Speakers

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

  • Aaron Eger

    Marine scientist and Conservation practitioner

    Aaron Eger is a marine scientist and conservation practitioner dedicated to protecting and restoring the world’s oceans, but really our wonderful kelp forests. Based in Sydney, Australia, he is a Postdoctoral Researcher at UNSW’s School of BEES and the Founder and Program Director of the Kelp Forest Alliance - a global initiative aiming to restore 4 million hectares of kelp forests by 2040. His work weaves together ecological data, economic drivers, and social perspectives to generate quantitative solutions to complex “wicked” problems. Aaron’s research informs environmental management strategies and policy at all levels of government. He has presented his work at COP28, the UN Ocean Conference, COP16, and Parliament House. He connects the public to kelp conservation through short films, media, science articles, and photography exhibits. In recognition of his contributions, Aaron was named the United Nations International Oceanographic Commission’s Early Career Researcher of the Year.

  • Adam Mada

    Magician

    Adam Mada, known as “Mr Magic” has been entertaining audiences and creating custom magic and Illusion shows internationally for over 20 years. He is the Magic and Illusions coach to the global smash hit Harry Potter and The Cursed Child – Australia and the magic & illusion consultant and coach for the Australian National Institute of Dramatic Art (N.I.D.A) as well as the magic/illusion designer for the highly anticipated stage adaptation of Mem Foxes Australian classic ‘Possum Magic’. Adam’s highly sought after live and digital performances are in demand throughout the world, playing everywhere from the Sydney Opera House to The Royal Bombay Yacht Club. Mada is the founder and director of Magic Inc. a company that creates bespoke custom magic illusions and performances for advertising and special events. Magic Inc. also fosters emerging magic talent including Australian and New Zealand Junior champions “The Cardistry Boys” as well as Tik-Tok Magic sensation Ash Magic.

  • Joe Kwon

    CEO at Confit Pathways

    Joe Kwon is a social entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Confit Pathways. Sentenced to 13 years in prison at age 21 for directing a criminal enterprise, he transformed his life through the mentorship he received during his incarceration. Inspired by the positive change mentorship brought to his life, Joe now dedicates himself to mentoring and empowering incarcerated youth and youth at risk of incarceration. He is a 2022 Westpac social change scholar, a fitness coach and an advocate for positive social change, bringing innovative solutions for justice reform. Joe combines fitness, education, and community support for individuals who have been affected by the justice system.

  • Rachael Bolton

    Sydney-based journalist and Artist

    Sydney-based journalist and artist Rachael Bolton has been many things: reporter, artist, teacher, political advisor. Today she writes about technology, work and cultural change for one of Australia's few national newspapers.

Organizing team