Countdown 2025
To a better, greener, healthier, thriving, resilient, fairer, cooler, creative future.
Friday 19 & Saturday 20 September 2025
Day 1: Sandton, Venue TBC
Day 2: NIROX Sculpture Park, Cradle of Humankind
Why This Matters
TEDxJohannesburg Countdown 2025 reimagines the TEDx experience. This year, we’re expanding to two days, creating a richer journey that begins in the pulse of the city and culminates in the serenity of nature.
As one of only 18 TEDx events worldwide selected as an official TED Countdown Global Anchor, we carry forward the energy of the TED Countdown Summit, held in Nairobi this past June, and bring it into a uniquely South African, globally connected context.
Day 1: Immersive Learning
On Friday, 19 September, we open with a day designed for deep engagement and collaborative learning.
Moving beyond the traditional TED stage, Day 1 invites participants into workshops, excursions, and design sprints led by scientists, creatives, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. This highly interactive programme provides space to explore complex climate challenges, exchange perspectives, and co-create ideas for a just and sustainable future.
Hosted in and around Johannesburg, Day 1 sets the tone for bold thinking, meaningful conversations, and unexpected connections — laying the groundwork for the ideas and performances of Day 2.
Day 2: Ideas on the TEDx Stage
On Saturday, 20 September, in the ancient cradle of our species—NIROX Sculpture Park — we gather for a day of bold talks, performances, and creative activations.
NIROX is no ordinary venue. Nestled in the UNESCO-listed Cradle of Humankind, it is an expansive sanctuary where art, nature, and thought converge. Rolling lawns, tranquil water features, and striking sculptures create the perfect setting for ideas that challenge, uplift, and reimagine the future.
Day 2 brings together scientists, youth leaders, artists, activists, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and business leaders to share powerful ideas for a just energy transition and a more sustainable world. The programme will be infused with art, poetry, music, and interactive experiences, making it as emotional as it is intellectual.
Tickets
2-Day Pass (Early Bird): R1200
Includes: Full access to Day 1 immersive programme & Day 2 TEDx experience | Light breakfast, lunch, and refreshments on Day 1 | A curated XBag of thoughtful keepsakes
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2-Day Pass (Standard): R1500
Includes: Full access to Day 1 immersive programme & Day 2 TEDx experience | Light breakfast, lunch, and refreshments on Day 1 | A curated XBag of thoughtful keepsakes
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Day 2 Only (Early Bird): R720
Includes: Full-day access to TEDxJohannesburg Countdown at NIROX | Talks, performances, and activations | Access to curated food vendors | A curated XBag of thoughtful keepsakes
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Day 2 Only (Standard): R900
Includes: Full-day access to TEDxJohannesburg Countdown at NIROX | Talks, performances, and activations | Access to curated food vendors | A curated XBag of thoughtful keepsakes
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Patron Pass: R3,000
For those who want to walk with us further.
This premium ticket is for guests who want to experience TEDxJohannesburg Countdown 2025 and directly support our ability to amplify bold ideas and voices from South Africa and the Global South.
Benefits Include:
Full access to both days | Premium reserved seating on Day 2 | Exclusive pre-event networking breakfast with speakers and partners | Recognition as a Patron in the event programme and on our website | Special Patron Welcome Pack with curated, locally sourced gifts
Your support helps us keep this platform independent, impactful, and accessible to diverse audiences.
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Numbers for Day 1 tickets are limited to optimise the experience. Secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
Why Join?
TEDxJohannesburg Countdown is more than an event — it’s a space of convergence, where creativity fuels justice, and where hope is engineered. Together, we’ll build momentum toward two major climate moments: the G20 climate meetings in Johannesburg and COP30 in Belém, Brazil.
Come walk with us. Tickets are now live.
