#Theme
The Fractured Paradox
In a world that has never been more connected, people have never felt more divided.
“The Fractured Paradox” is our take on a theme rooted in contradiction, but also in truth. It burns a candle towards the exploration of the contrasts that shape the way we live today,-progress alongside uncertainty, individuality alongside the need to belong, constant connection alongside growing isolation.
With today’s world doused heavily under the questioning gaze of what’s real and what isn’t; artificial intelligence becomes mankind’s technological corn syrup – making it inevitable that fractures are everywhere. In our personal lives. In our communities. In the systems we trust. In the identities we carry. Yet within those fractures often lies growth, change, perspective, and possibility.
At a time when Sri Lanka continues to redefine itself socially, culturally, and economically; – “The Fractured Paradox” invites audiences to reflect on the tensions shaping our world, while discovering the ideas, stories, and conversations that can help bridge them.
Through a carefully curated selection of powerful speakers, change makers and transformative experiences, – TEDxColombo 2026 aims to challenge assumptions, as always spark dialogue, and take it a step further in to reality- reminding us that even in contrast, there can be connection.
#WHY JOIN The Fractured Paradox?
TEDxColombo provides you an international conference experience right here in sunny Sri Lanka.
Networking
Meet a community of like minded idealists who will dream for r-evolution together
Have Fun
From playing around at the social spaces, to sipping your favourite type of coffee to enjoying food with your new community – there’ll be plenty of opportunities to mingle with other attendees and connect around ideas.
Great Speakers
Learn new ideas from Speakers who are doing the work. Following the TED format of 18 minutes – the speakers are trained by the TEDxColombo team to give you the talk of their lives.
Make Space
Discover a different side of yourself and embrace your true purpose as you continue to learn, ask questions and deep dive into what matters the most.
#OVERVIEW
We are moving to a brand new space: for 2026, TEDxColombo is heading to Temple Trees!
For our 13th event across 16 years, TEDxColombo will gather at this historic venue to bring you a completely fresh, elevated experience designed to leave you inspired. Formed by a dedicated group of young individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups, TEDxColombo continues its mission to spread impactful ideas and provide a global stage for our local thinkers and leaders.
This year, we are taking the experience even further by introducing much larger social spaces, interactive experiences, and spaces to connect. Together, we’ll show Sri Lanka how we can continue to move forward and shape the future.
- New Ideas 90%
- Networking 75%
YOUR TEDxCOLOMBO EXPERIENCE
Social Space
Check out our Social Space Area – to connect and discover together with your fellow audience members. You may even win a few prizes!
Speakers
Be the first witness to ideas from iconic speakers breaking barriers across fields. This year we are touching on topics we have never addressed in the past so watch out!
Fellowship
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where you’ll make friends for life who are thinkers, builders, fighters, and optimists who are all fighting the good fight to make our world a better place.
Partner with us
TEDxColombo relies on community support to further our objective of making great ideas accessible and assisting in the creation of a future worth pursuing for all. When you apply to become a partner and assist in building TEDxColombo, you are directly supporting a great purpose to share powerful ideas with the world.
Watch this space for speaker updates
With a combination of powerful new talks. Stay up to date on our website or register to our newsletter to find out who the speakers are as they are announced.
Our Location
Temple Trees
Temple Trees, on Sri Uttarananda Mawatha in the heart of Colombo, is the official residence of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. The colonial-era mansion takes its name from the frangipani, or “temple trees”, that fill its gardens. It has been home to the country’s leaders since independence and has witnessed some of the most important conversations in Sri Lanka’s modern history. This year, its lawns and halls become a stage for a different kind of dialogue, where speakers and audience come together to explore The Fractured Paradox. Seats are limited and security arrangements apply, so please bring your ticket and a valid ID on the day.
Our Partners
Our Partners are a vital part of our organization and we are proud to work with some of the most reputable and respected companies in the industry. Ones who continue to share our values and vision. We are proud of the strong and collaborative relationships we have built with them over the years and we thank all our past partners who have believed in us throughout our journey.
Main Partner
Co-Partner
Co-Partner
Co-Partner
Print Media Partner
Cake Partner
Digital Marketing Partner
Print Partner
Creative Partner
Associate Partner
Event Partner
