'How Leeds is showing the way when it comes to having a civil conversation'

This sixth edition contains five days of bold conversations exploring the big issues shaping our world today, led by experts, creatives and changemakers from around the globe.

The event is organised by LeedsBID with one simple objective: to put Leeds on the map through a creative and innovative event, which stands out in a place-making way to elevate our city positively.

This year, there are some fascinating topics and celebrity speakers, including Louis Theroux, Tim Minchin, Elizabeth Day, Chris Packham CBE, Roman Kemp, Ashley James and Dame Evelyn Glennie to name but a few, discussing a range of topical issues from suicide, social media, creativity, belonging and the climate.

We see on TV, in parliament and in society a very adversarial and combative discussion environment, underpinned by a lack of tolerance to see others’ point of view.

With the Leeds International Festival of Ideas, we have created the opposite - a festival with the ability to host civil conversations while having differing points of view. This is what makes the event so refreshing and why so many people have previously attended and already purchased tickets for this year.

We wanted to extend this civilised conversational culture to the city’s younger generation through LIFI Futures, a programme of daytime events working closely with the educational establishments around the city centre, and creating new events for students in academies, college and higher education.

Following last year’s success, once again there is a panel discussion in conjunction with Ruth Gorse Academy, programmed with its students – this year helping young people to live authentically and be confident in their own skin. Last year, this event was described as “the best PSHE lesson ever”.

Working with festival partner Weightmans and Luminate Education Group, we are bringing together a panel of employers to help young people unpick apprenticeships, and in celebration of Leeds becoming the UK’s first ever City of Maths, Rachel Riley MBE explores how maths really is at the root of everything.

The student population is the future of our city. The ultimate objective for the city is to retain this educated talent and see it become the workforce which builds a stronger future for Leeds.

So do enjoy the five days of Leeds International Festival of Ideas, its 14 events and 50+ speakers.

Tickets are selling fast, with limited availability, but there’s still time to get involved and join the conversation. Book tickets here.