Thank-you! A wrap-up of TEDxYSE.

Thank you again to everyone who participated! The speakers, performers, and emcee were all incredible, the audience was wonderful, and the amazing dedication and help of the volunteers and Ashoka Youth Venture team was much appreciated. We are always pleased to work with Staples and we enjoy their enthusiasm. Finally, TEDxYSE could not have happened without the expert direction and commitment of Ashoka Youth Venture’s Romina Laouri, Sarah Brooks, and Caraleigh Holverson.

We are thrilled to report that TEDxYSE was a resounding success; 375 people attended and over 6,300 people viewed our livestream. The audience included students, parents, teachers, young professionals, teenagers and grandparents, who traveled from places as far away as Ohio and NYC to attend. There was even a group of students from Turkey! The event was inspiring, engaging, interesting, fun, and thought-provoking. The diverse line-up of speakers provided a multitude of experiences, and showed enthusiasm, courage, and commitment to social change. The stories were powerful and moving, with Heather Wilder’s speech receiving a standing ovation. TEDxYSE’s message stressed that everyone can create positive change in the world, and highlighted the strength of individual capabilities.

The atmosphere varied throughout the conference; ranging from energetic as Shiv Dravid spoke passionately about social change, to fascinated as Rocco Falconer detailed his endeavors in Sierra Leone, to intrigued as Rebecca Kantar explained the development of Minga, to curious as Lamia Oezal described ethnic tensions in Germany. All the speakers made an impact, and everyone left inspired and encouraged to make a difference.

Videos will appear in the coming weeks, and photos can be viewed on Flickr. Don’t forget to check out the TEDxYouth events this Saturday – they all look amazing.

Thanks again! TEDxYSE could not have happened without your support.