What does it take to be a TEDster?

I just applied to attend the nearest TEDx event to me, in Waterloo in March. It was an odd experience, having to summarize my worthiness for one of these exclusive conferences. I understand the need to limit audience numbers, but the idea of being vetted against largely unknown qualifications reminds me of what I imagine 19th century British men’s clubs would have done. In that century there were up-and-coming tradesmen who could compete with the aristocracy for wealth, but still faced a class wall. I can only guess what the TEDx choosers are looking for but I trust they will value diversity. I’m not a startup CEO or a scientist or an author, not a programmer or a social media maven, but I think I can hold my own in just about any conversation that’s open to ideas.