The sixth edition of TEDx PortHarcourt, an annual non-profit event devoted to worthy ideas on topical issues, held recently at Horlikins Event center, Port Harcourt, bringing speakers to discuss issues pertaining to development of the Niger Delta region. Titled “reFrame”, this year’s event addressed the ability of perspective to alter reality, and its implications in Technology, Entertainment, Design, and other spheres of life.
The lineup of speakers included Ebiegberi Alagoa, a professor and renowned educationist, Charles Okeibunor, and Ifie Sekibo, CEO, Hertiage bank amongst others. They all spoke on issues germane to the Niger Delta region, while offering creative insights into how to address the issues.
Alagoa’s talk titled “My Niger Delta Story”, recalled the rich cultural heritage of the Niger Delta people and encouraged youths to learn from those who, in spite of the challenges of the environment, have surmounted barriers to become useful citizens.
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Ifie Sekibo, who spoke about “entitlement”, stressed the need for a return to the leadership principles and teachings contained in the Niger Delta culture. In his view, many of the problems encountered by the region have already been tackled by culture’s emphasis on conscientiousness and community. He also stressed the necessity for collaborative efforts towards achieving objectives.
Prominent work place transformer, Charles Okeibunor, stated the need to reframe and not refrain, while discussing ‘Relationships Management Skills’. In his view, frames are to pictures what clothes are to the body, accentuating beauty and providing memories. For him, not every picture should be framed however, as there are some that would mar these memories. Those pictures, he stated, should be confined to the “dustbin of history”.
Speaking after the event, Donald Okudu, the primary TEDx licensee, elaborated on what the brand stood for and hoped to achieve. According to him, TED, which stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design, is a gathering for ideas that are worth sharing, delivered by the best minds, to spur conversations that improve humanity. He also discussed this year’s theme ‘Reframe’, pointing out that it was unwise to continue doing the same thing and expecting a different result.
CALEB OJEWALE
