This talk centers on the transformative power of courage and commitment in overcoming fear and achieving personal growth. Opening with a vulnerable confession about the fear of swimming, the speaker uses the inspiring story of surfer Bethany Hamilton, who returned to the sport after losing her arm in a shark attack, to show that courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act in spite of it. Citing figures like Nelson Mandela and drawing on research about fear, regret, and resilience, the speaker encourages the audience to step outside their comfort zones, pursue their goals with clarity, practice self-compassion, seek supportive mentors, and learn from setbacks. The talk ends with a powerful challenge: take just one brave step toward your dreams or fears, because one step can change everything. Cyris Joseph Jones was born and raised in Prentiss, a small town in Central Mississippi. The ninth of eleven children, Cyris credits his parents, Madis and Willie Jones, for instilling in him the values of
had an illustrious career spanning over three decades. He started with a
major logistics company while attending college, advancing into management, and later spent 20 years in various upper management roles at a leading automotive manufacturing firm in Central Mississippi. After retiring from corporate America in 2023 to care for his mother, Cyris turned his focus to his true passion - motivating others, inspiring change, and helping people grow personally and professionally.
Cyris has been happily married to his wife, Terri Jones, for 26 years. Together, they have two children, Christian and Torri, who continue to be a source of pride and inspiration in his life. 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
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- 2:27The Interstitium: Your Body’s Hidden Superhighway | Emily Aguesse | TEDxYouth@SantiagoSTEAMWe think we know our bodies—but what if there’s something important we’ve missed? In this eye-opening talk, Emily uncovers a little-known part of the human body that’s changing how scientists think. It’s a reminder that curiosity can lead to discoveries in the most unexpected places. Emily is a sixth grade student at Santiago STEAM Magnet Elementary School. As a two-time gold level President's Volunteer Service Award recipient, Emily knows the power of hard work and giving back to her community. She has dedicated countless hours to the building and tending of her school's gardens and she has supported numerous Santiago STEAM Green environmental initiatives. From working before school recycling drives to attending after school guest speaker sessions, Emily's support has been key in her school's success as a Green Ribbon School through both the CA and US Departments of Education. 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
