Leeds International Festival of Ideas returns this October with a packed line-up of talks and discussions for you to be inspired by.
The Leeds International Festival of Ideas (LIFI) 2024 is back, and set to be a stimulating and dynamic event, running from 2nd to 5th October at the Leeds Playhouse. This annual festival has grown into a key event in our city’s intellectual calendar, known for bringing together leading voices from various fields to discuss pressing issues and innovative ideas. This year’s lineup promises to be no exception, featuring a diverse array of speakers and topics designed to provoke thought, inspire action, and foster dialogue.
One of the standout sessions, The Evolution of Creativity, will be led by Nile Rodgers, the legendary musician and producer, on 2nd October. Nile will delve into the evolution of creativity, sharing insights from his storied career and exploring how creative processes have transformed over the years. This session promises to be a fascinating journey through the mind of one of the most influential figures in modern music.
Entrepreneur and influencer Grace Beverley will take the stage on 3rd October in How to Break Moulds and Influence People, to discuss the importance of challenging conventional norms and forging new paths. Grace, known for her successful fitness brand and social media presence, will provide a unique perspective on how to navigate and succeed in today’s fast-paced digital world.
In Trust Your Gut on 3rd October, Tim Spector OBE, a leading expert on gut health, will join Dr. Amir Khan in a discussion about the latest research on the microbiome and its implications for overall health. This session will offer valuable insights into how our gut health affects everything from our immune system to mental wellbeing, highlighting the importance of nutrition and lifestyle choices.
Rebecca Lucy Taylor (aka Self Esteem) and Carol Vorderman will speak at Sensationalism and Stereotypes on 4th October, a highly anticipated session featuring an exploration into the impact of media sensationalism and the perpetuation of stereotypes in society. This talk will delve into how sensationalised news stories and media portrayals can shape public perception and reinforce harmful stereotypes.
On 5th October Kate Adie and Stacey Dooley will provide thought-provoking session entitled This Means War, focusing on the concept of conflict and its representation in various contexts. This discussion will cover the roots and consequences of different types of conflict, from personal disputes to global warfare. The session will bring together historians, sociologists, and conflict resolution experts
to provide a multifaceted perspective on why conflicts arise and how they can be addressed or mitigated.
Martin Dickson, Festival Director, says: “The power of LIFI to bring the people of Leeds together and have a courageous, open, and honest conversation about major issues affecting us all in society today is one of the unique elements that sets this festival apart. There’s nothing as bold, confident, or influential in the UK today as a people-focused festival.
“LIFI aims to shout louder about the city, confidently and boldly projecting an innovative, creative, exciting place to be and amplifying that to the world; that is what makes it the ultimate place-marketing festival of its type, not only in Leeds but the UK. The heartbeat of the festival lies in the experiences and sentiments shared by the people who came to witness it. After last year’s sell-out, we are super proud of this year’s line-up and hope many people join the conversation!”
LIFI is not just about listening to talks; it’s about engaging with ideas and with each other. The festival will feature interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities designed to foster dialogue and collaboration among attendees. Whether you’re passionate about science, art, politics, or social issues, there will be something for everyone.
For more details and to book tickets, visit Leedsinternationalfestival.com
