2025
Where Perth people share powerful ideas that could change everything.
TEDxPerth presents CAN WE TALK? The Art of Conversation, a Winter Salon event that brings together five diverse speakers to explore one of the most urgent challenges of our time: how we talk to one another. In an era defined by polarisation, disconnection, and rapid change, this event will delve into the shifting dynamics of conversation—how we speak, listen, influence, disagree, and ultimately connect. Topics will span from mental wellness and hard conversations, to the role of culture, truth, and trust in shaping how we engage. Together, the speakers will offer fresh insights into the art of meaningful dialogue and what it takes to hold space across difference.
Join us for this exclusive evening event in Leederville for just $49.50*, including :
- Live talks from some of Perth’s most remarkable thinkers
- Opportunities for networking, conversation, and discussion
- Q&A session
Salons are smaller, more intimate events with a limited number of tickets, so act fast and secure your seat.
*plus booking fee
Speakers
MC: Bo Wong
With 20+ years working across all levels of the arts and culture sectors, Bo is highly attuned to the evolving needs of creatives and small businesses in an increasingly digital landscape. As a creative and as an educator, Bo is uniquely placed to address these challenges and has developed a comprehensive professional development program including mentoring, workshops and retreats, supporting wellbeing and creating spaces for thriving, resilient creative practices. She brings a collaborative approach to all of her work and is an avid open ocean swimmer.
Jack Collard
Jack Collard (Brrrbook) is a proud citizen of the Nyoongar nation with cultural ties that span from the pristine beaches along the coast of Whadjuk country, through the wetlands of Boorloo over Kaartamoornda (Black Hills) to the granite outcrops of Ballardong Boodjar that are home to the Mungart tree.
He completed a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Political Science and International Relations at UWA and is currently a full-time performer. Jack sings, dances, acts and writes poetry in response to the Boodjar he is sustained by and all those that sustain her.
Mike Dyson
Mike Dyson is a consultant, facilitator and program designer, who specialises in building the social and emotional capacity of leaders and teams.
Over the last 10 years Mike has facilitated group conversations in workplaces, schools and community groups on difficult topics ranging from mental health and suicide prevention, to positive psychology and preventative wellbeing, to culture change and human centred leadership. His social enterprise Good Blokes Co supports corporate and community leaders, educators and parents to lead meaningful conversations with men and boys on masculinity, mateship, resilience and accountability.
Sasha Moss
Sasha Moss is a psychotherapist, counselling academic and creator of From the Feminine – a private practice supporting transformation in women’s lives through facilitated spaces of connection and collective feminine wisdom. For over 17 years, Sasha has facilitated Wise Women Circles, which serve as a powerful crucible for self-compassion, personal awakening and connection – to self, community and a greater field of life.
Rigel Paciente
Rigel (Ry) is a researcher at The Kids Research Institute Australia. Currently, they are undergoing their PhD which focuses on the experiences of suicidal and self-injurious thoughts and behaviours in young people living with Type 1 Diabetes. Their work in research encompasses LGBTQIA+ mental health, social media usage, medical traumatic stress, and healthcare accessibility in vulnerable populations.
They have a particular interest in exploring lived experience and the impact of sharing stories to improve mental health outcomes. Outside of work, they enjoy connecting with other people, be it through physical hobbies such as Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting, or more nerdy hobbies such as Dungeons and Dragons.
This Salon event explores themes of courage, uncertainty, and accountability—asking not only how we talk, but why it matters now more than ever.
From Indigenous perspectives on communication to the role of influence in a digital age, from climate grief to disinformation, CAN WE TALK invites us to consider what it means to be radically human in a complex world, offering our audience tools for connection, reflection, and action—designed to spark change both personally and collectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can’t find the answer you’re looking for?
What time should I arrive?
Be sure to allow time to register, mingle, and enjoy the activations and installations.
Is there assigned seating?
No. This event will be open seating.
Will food and drinks be provided?
Light refreshments will be provided. Should you have dietary considerations, please let us know during ticket purchase. A cash bar will be available for purchase of beverages.
Is the event wheelchair accessible?
Yes, wheelchair accessible. If you have access considerations, please let us know during ticket purchase.
Where can I park on the day?
The Leederville Hotel is located at 742 Newcastle Street, Leederville. Parking options near the hotel include street parking and various car parks.
Street Parking
Limited street parking is available around the Leederville Hotel. Refer to street signs for parking restrictions and duration limits.
Car Parks
Wilson Parking at 661 Newcastle Street offers affordable parking and is open to the public after 6 pm Monday – Friday and 24 hours on weekends. 301 Vincent Street Car Park, a multi-storey car park with 134 car bays and 10 motorcycle/scooter bays. Flat rate of $5.
Frame Court and The Avenue allow City of Vincent ratepayers to apply for first hour free parking using the EasyPark app.
Can I get to the venue via public transport?
Absolutely! The Leederville Hotel is well-connected to public transport. It’s a short walk (350m) from Leederville Train Station, which is on the Mandurah or Butler lines, and 1.2km from City West Train Station, which is on the Fremantle line. Several bus routes also stop nearby, including the 15, Green CAT, 96, 81-85, and 96/402-404 routes.
Is there a taxi rank nearby?
A taxi rank is located directly outside the venue on Newcastle Street.