Got an idea worth sharing? Chelsea's first TEDx event has put out a call for speakers. It's a chance for local voices to take the stage in their own city.

TEDxBellingham Square opened applications for up to 10 speakers for "Pa'lante: Moving Forward Together." The event is set for March 6, 2027, at Chelsea High School, according to the Chelsea Record, which describes it as an independently organized TEDx event.

You don't need to be a professional speaker. Applicants will be judged mainly on the strength and originality of their idea and their connection to it, not on their resume or speaking experience.

The event

Chelsea Public Schools is hosting, in a community partnership with the City of Chelsea and the schools. TED's event listing puts it from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Chelsea High School Auditorium, 99 Everett Ave. Anyone can attend: the listing says the event is open to the public. It names Jake Small as the organizer and lists the format as standard.

The theme is moving forward, with courage and hope. The tagline: "Building what comes next — together."

The listing describes Chelsea as a diverse, resilient and innovative community that is often judged by its challenges rather than its ideas, talent and leadership. Organizers want to give local voices a platform to shape conversation, spark action and connect people across sectors.

The Record said the theme "reflects the possibility, resilience, creativity, and collective imagination of Chelsea" and asks what ideas could help people "stay, belong, and thrive" in the city.

Who should apply

Organizers want speakers who reflect Chelsea across generations, cultures, neighborhoods, professions and lived experiences. The Record's examples include students, educators, artists, entrepreneurs, researchers, organizers, public servants and community members.

Selected speakers will get coaching and support to turn their ideas into TEDx talks. Apply at TEDxBellinghamSquare.com.

Who's behind it

Jake Small, founder and head organizer of TEDxBellingham Square and a member of the Chelsea School Committee, said, "Chelsea has never had a shortage of extraordinary ideas."

City Manager Fidel Maltez called the event "a mile marker showing the incredible progress" the community makes. Superintendent Dr. Almi Abeyta said, "We are proud that Chelsea Public Schools can help TEDxBellingham Square create a platform." School Committee Vice Chair Kati Cabral added, "Each speaker will speak life into their lines!"

What to watch

The Record didn't list an application deadline, so check TEDxBellinghamSquare.com for the timeline. The coverage also didn't say when speakers will be announced or how tickets will work.