Why every leader needs a creative disruptor | Irene Koel | TEDxUniversiteitVanAmsterdam
Irene Koel worked for 25 years in marketing, advertising, innovation, and product development. Ten years ago, she transitioned to social innovation and founded The Zooooo, which provides creativity and innovation support for various sectors undergoing transformation. Together with her clients, she co-creates new, innovative concepts while driving cultural change. Irene also volunteers as a mentor and board member for several social enterprises (to earn some karma points!), including Women on Wings in India (a pro bono business consultancy), Interacting (an improv theaterschool for young people with autism), and Circus Andersom (a collective of social designers). Her podcast, MonkeyTalk, which focuses on creativity, ranks among the top 20 most-listened-to management podcasts.Ten years ago, Irene switched from being a ‘commercial creative’ to a ‘societal creative.’ In this talk, it's time to reflect. Throughout this journey, she has come to understand the power of disarmament and what it means to play the role of a jester in a business environment. Being disarming helps create an atmosphere of openness and trust—the birthplace of creativity and change. This is achieved through humor, authenticity, wonder, and heartfelt communication.In this transitional era, every boardroom needs a jester—someone who dares to challenge conventions, expose blind spots, and spark fresh thinking. A well-placed joke or unexpected perspective can cut through corporate inertia and unlock new possibilities. With this talk, Irene hopes to awaken the jester within you. And if not: you know where to find her.Irene Koel worked for 25 years in marketing, advertising, innovation, and product development. Ten years ago, she transitioned to social innovation and founded The Zooooo, which provides creativity and innovation support for various sectors undergoing transformation. Together with their clients, they co-create new, innovative concepts while driving cultural change. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 3:59Let’s Save Our Seas | Odysseas Gkiokas | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthOdysseas reminds us that saving the planet starts with simple choices. In his talk, he shares how everyday actions like recycling, reducing plastic use, and joining clean-up efforts can protect ocean life and our future. His message is clear: if we all do a little, we can achieve a lot. Odysseas is a 10-year-old student passionate about solving problems and playing board games. He loves reading books, doing puzzles and constructing Lego in his free time. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 3:39The Artful Mind | Sofia Beligianni | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthSofia takes us on a journey through the emotional power of art. She explores how colors, shapes, and symbolism can spark different feelings in each of us, helping us connect with the world and ourselves in deeper ways. Her talk shows how art is not just something we see, but something we truly feel. My name is Sofia, and I am 12 years old. Some of my hobbies include drawing, listening to music, watching movies and reading. I believe that if everyone puts in their best effort, we could really make the Earth a better place. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 14:14WHY Teaching Became My Calling | Derek Block | TEDxSun Prairie West High SchoolAt TEDx Sun Prairie West High School, hosted by Mouneeth Venigalla, Derek Block shares his personal journey and what led him to a career in teaching. With over a decade of experience as a science teacher, he reflects on the meaningful impact educators have on students and communities. His talk was part of the TEDx event themed "The Power of Why." A dedicated science teacher in Sun Prairie for over a decade, Derek Block shares his personal journey into education. He’ll reflect on the key moments that shaped his teaching philosophy and why he believes education is more than just a profession—it’s a calling. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 2:46Mission: Space Spy | Zois Sarris | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthZois loves space, science, and big questions about the universe. In this talk, he shares his dream of becoming a "space spy" using telescopes, satellites, and a curious mind to unlock the mysteries of space. I’m Zois and I’m 10 years old. I love space and technology and when I’m not observing the moon with my telescope, I’m practicing Jiu Jitsu. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 3:07The Power of Learning | Zeta Roussi | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthZeta shares how learning is more than school — it's a way to grow, explore, and connect. From riding a bike to cooking and helping friends, she shows that learning takes effort, but it's always worth it. I am Zeta Roussi, I am eleven years old, and I enjoy sports and traditional dances. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 4:07The Importance of Sports | Apostolos Chardas | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthApostolos talks about how sports, especially swimming, improve physical and mental health. He explains how they help with social life, build determination, and strengthen the heart. Regular exercise is key for kids, promoting growth, fitness, and well-being. Hello, my name is Apostolos, and I am 12 years old. I have a big interest in Sports and that's because I like to exercise a lot in the day! This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx