In Bali, innovation isn’t just found in high-tech labs or big cities. It lives in how communities care for the land, pass down knowledge, and respond to challenges with creativity and heart. That spirit will take center stage this August at TEDxTabanan, where local changemakers share ideas shaped by experience, culture, and connection.

Theme: Empowering Local Innovations for Global Opportunities 

Location: 📍 Nuanu Creative City, Tabanan, Bali 

Date: 🗓 August 20, 2025

Time: ⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM WITA 

Admission: 🎟 Open to the public | Tickets available

Local Voices with Global Reach

TEDxTabanan shows that powerful ideas can come from anywhere. Whether it’s a village standing up against overdevelopment or a platform helping young people navigate modern life, each speaker brings something personal, practical, and inspiring.

Their stories may begin in Bali or other parts of Indonesia, but they speak to global themes such as how we care for nature, support each other, and move forward without losing what matters most.

Here are just a few names to look out for:

• Aniek Puspawardani, founder of Kelecung Eco Village, has spent the last ten years building a model of regenerative tourism rooted in Tri Hita Karana. This Balinese philosophy honors harmony between people, nature, and spirit. Her latest project, the Communal Forest, is a space for reflection, learning, and legacy.
• Rahmi Fajar Harini, co-founder of Eco Tourism Bali, shares how responsible travel can support communities and protect the island’s natural and cultural heritage. Her work reminds us that when done right, tourism can do more good than harm.
• Iqbal Hariadi of Proud Project and Irfan “Fanbul” Prabowo of Infipop use storytelling and digital platforms to empower youth, spark creativity, and build stronger communities.
• Ken Handersen, founder of Gatherich, believes financial literacy should be valuable and straightforward. His approach helps people manage their money and make decisions that improve their lives.
• Pavel Yurovitskiy, a global strategist and award-winning entrepreneur, offers insight into how we can grow through uncertainty and use technology to drive real human impact.

You’ll also hear from Sergio Graziano of Edtek.io, William Sudhana of vosFoyer, and Yuricho Billy of Coworking Indonesia, each bringing a unique mix of creativity, leadership, and community-building to the stage.

Why This Event Matters

TEDxTabanan is more than just a talk series. It reflects what Bali has always done well by blending tradition and innovation in an honest and grounded way. As the island faces ongoing challenges from tourism, climate change, and rapid development, these events help refocus the conversation. They show that local wisdom still has a place in shaping global solutions, and that innovation is strongest when it includes everyone.

If you’re curious, hopeful, or just looking for a fresh perspective, TEDxTabanan is a chance to be part of something meaningful. No suits or business cards are required. Just people, stories, and ideas worth hearing.

Source: TEDxTabanan Official Event Page. 

Organized by Dinda Marlischa | Curated by Dhila Rizqia.

Written by: McKenzie Smith