From Panel to Red Dot: My Journey to the TEDx Stage

Dawn Thomas reflects on her presentation at the TEDx Kings Park Youth event.

At the end of 2024, I had the opportunity to present at the TEDx Kings Park Youth event. I was part of an inspiring agenda that includes speakers, performances, and short films. The whole experience is something that I will cherish forever. Here is how it happened…

My TEDx journey began in an unexpected place: International Women’s Day. I was part of a CPA Australia panel – that stands for Certified Practising Accountants by the way –  discussing systematic issues that lead to gender inequities and what we can do to close the gap for women. After the session, an audience member approached me, expressing how deeply the message resonated with her. We connected on LinkedIn and later met up.

It turned out she was a curator for TEDxKings Park and thought I’d be a great candidate as a speaker for their upcoming Youth Event in November 2024. She shared past talks and explained the application process. I was intrigued but hesitant – this was TEDx, after all! By July, amidst the whirlwind of tax season, I received a follow-up email. Applications were due, and while she kindly offered to help with my submission, I decided to do it myself.

In August, while on leave, I received the news: out of 90 applicants, I was one of nine speakers selected! I was also the only one speaking on a financial topic – specifically, young people and superannuation, which ties closely to my PhD research on Gen Z’s early experiences with super.

The challenge was set: I had 8–10 minutes to make an impact, far removed from the longer presentations I’m accustomed to as a financial adviser. My first draft clocked in at 16 minutes and was full of jargon. With the help of my curator, we managed to streamline the message, remove the technical words and make it engaging.

As November approached, so did the nerves. TEDx talks don’t allow note cards, and slides were minimal – only use them if absolutely necessary. I practiced everywhere I could, whenever I could. I’m pretty sure my kids never want to hear the word “superannuation” again.

The week before, we had a rehearsal at UWA, standing on the iconic red dot. Reading from my script, I felt the enormity of the moment. My eldest son was at the rehearsal cheering me on enthusiastically – or at least as enthusiastically as a 14 year old is able to.

On the day, my daughter was there with me as my assigned support person. She was able to come backstage with me and met the wonderful group of people who would be speaking that day. Funnily enough choosing my outfit was a vital part of stepping into the moment. Clothes for me are like a superhero’s cape – a way to channel confidence and power. After much deliberation (and packing backup options), I was ready.

The talk was delivered to an audience of 500, but the real reach will come when it’s published on TEDx’s global YouTube channel, with over 42.2 million subscribers. Walking onto the stage, I felt a mix of fear and exhilaration. Time speeds up and slows down at the same time. I took a deep breath and delivered my opening line, “I can make you $100,000 in the next 10 minutes.” 

To a crowd of young, impressionable faces, I shared the importance of engaging with superannuation early and making informed choices. I encouraged them to grow their knowledge by using the calculators on Money Smart (https://moneysmart.gov.au/#get-help-with-money); to be aware of when a superannuation account is first opened for them; and to understand their long investment time frame, which will allow them to be invested in more growth assets.

It wasn’t just a talk; it was an alignment with my passion for financial education and the ethos of TWD’s START WELL, where we empower young people and their parents to grow their financial journey.

Reflecting on the experience, I’m struck by the warmth of the other speakers, the support of my family and Cara Graham who gave up part of her Saturday to cheer me on. I have gratitude for the immense privilege of using this platform to spark change. I can’t wait for the video to be published in 2025 for the message to be spread further.