Chances are you have tuned into at least one TED talk. TED began some 30 years ago as a Technology, Entertainment and Design conference and has morphed into a forum that covers virtually anything in more than 100 languages. The TED organization is a prestigious global platform for select individuals who commit to the TED motto, “Ideas worth spreading.” The goal is to inspire and motivate audiences with captivating information and stories under the TED umbrella, Technology, Entertainment, and Design. The ‘X’ in TEDx indicates that it is an independently organized TED event. Thanks to an initiative led by TEDxYouth@Wilmington organizer Dr. Dan Young and his 15-year-old daughter, Kathryn Young, there is now a TEDxYouth@Wilmington platform for students giving them the opportunity to share their perspectives with their peers as well as a broader audience of stakeholders interested in the perspectives and experiences of Delaware Gen Z’s in Delaware. In June of this year, eight Delaware GenZ’ers shared their opinions, and ideas on how to make the world a better place through the lens of their experiences.
Kathryn Young, who also took on the role of moderator for the day in addition to her co-organizer duties was joined by a diverse group of students including Azhar Alfalahi; Ella Trembanis, Editor for the Middletown High School newspaper, Tara Brown; Leola-Christine Titus-Morris, the 16-year-old CEO, non-profit founder and author, Grace Umoren-Udo Student Success Ambassador and Leel Dias.
In their candid and thought-provoking sessions, they discussed everything from the sense of feeling connected, assimilating to other cultures, mental health, creating your individual path forward, advancing equity in America and being empowered. Young and his daughter are planning more Delaware Gen Z TEDxYouth@Wilmington programs for the fall. In the meantime, check out one of the 8 sessions from Ella Trembanis and discover why she recommends taking the side roads when traveling. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvB_6ymHF8E
