About

TEDxØygarden is a locally organised, independent TEDx event, taking place for the first time in Øygarden, Norway. Our mission is to bring together bold thinkers, researchers, creators, and community voices to share ideas worth spreading – ideas that challenge perspectives, spark action, and inspire hope.

Øygarden is a place where tradition meets transformation, shaped by wild nature, ocean industries, and people who care deeply about their future. At TEDxØygarden, we believe that real change begins with listening to one another, across sectors, generations, and experiences.

We want to create a stage for powerful stories and big questions. How can we protect what matters, while embracing new possibilities? What does progress look like when we include both nature and people?

Join us as we dive beneath the surface, to explore what lies behind the challenges we face, and the solutions we may not have discovered yet. This is TEDx – local voices, global impact. Welcome to TEDxØygarden.

  • Lene Kristine Hansen

    Lene is the Sustainability Lead at NORCE Norwegian Research Centre and the licensee & curator of TEDxØygarden. With a background in global development, she has been an observer in international climate negotiations and works to bridge research, business, and society. Passionate about nature, community, and communication, she is dedicated to making complex ideas accessible and inspiring collaboration for a more sustainable future.

  • Eskild Toft

    With more than 25 years of experience from the oil, gas and maritime industries, Eskild brings valuable insight into how traditional sectors can meet the future. A dedicated family man and an enthusiast for nature and the environment, he is passionate about finding the balance between industry and sustainability. At TEDxØygarden, Eskild contributes his broad experience and his commitment to building bridges between people, perspectives, and possibilities.

  • Sunniva Vatle

    Founder and leader of Naturvernforbundet Øygarden, Sunniva is passionate about the conservation of nature and ecosystems. She has long experience in mobilizing the local community around environmental issues and bringing people together across interests. As part of the TEDxØygarden team, she contributes her deep knowledge of nature, local engagement, and her commitment to creating meaningful conversations about the future we share.

  • Ekaterina Nilsson

    A tree-hugging, truth-seeking, justice-bringing and peace-making word expressionist. Outspoken and aware, Ekaterina believes there’s no time like now to get more connected and enlightened. At TEDxØygarden, Ekaterina’s role is to create a good mood and make sure everything runs smoothly.

  • Julianna Burrill

    Julianna is a PhD researcher at the University of Bergen, where she explores how people understand and respond to climate change, sustainability, and changes in nature. With a background in project management, outdoor guiding, and sustainability, she is passionate about bridging science and society to spark dialogue on the choices shaping our future. TEDxØygarden, Julianna is responsible for communication, design, and promotion.

  • Team Social Media from Sotra vgs

    This team of creative minds is behind TEDxØygarden’s social media presence. Through videos, visuals, and storytelling, they capture the spirit of our event and share inspiring ideas with audiences near and far.