The technology industry promised us connection, convenience, and creativity. Has it delivered, or offered false promises that may never be fully realized? Scott Hanselman offers a candid look at what’s really happening beneath the surface of AI and innovation and how we must make conscious, informed decisions about the tools shaping our future.We could not do this without community support. With special thanks to the University of Oregon for their presenting partnership. The world-class stage production by For Good & Co. The incredible legacy bound Event Book provided by Premier Press. Lastly, the brand identity and creative digital craft provided by our Agency of Record - Thesis. All of our Partners and event history can be found at TEDxPortland.com. Scott Hanselman is the VP of Developer Community at Microsoft and has spent over 30 years as a teacher, programmer, and prolific blogger. In addition to writing numerous technical books, Scott has produced nearly 2,000 episodes of his popular Hanselman Minutes and Azure Friday podcasts. A passionate technologist, he focuses on empowering developers and fostering inclusivity in tech. Scott frequently speaks at conferences worldwide, sharing insights on software development, productivity, and diversity in technology. 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

Kicking off the inaugural Women’s Leadership Forum, presented by KeyBank, Christine Sinclair sat down with former Canadian Olympic gold medal teammate, Karina LeBlanc, for a discussion about leadership, legacy, and the power of women’s sports.We could not do this without community support. With special thanks to the University of Oregon for their presenting partnership. The world-class stage production by For Good & Co. The incredible legacy bound Event Book provided by Premier Press. Lastly, the brand identity and creative digital craft provided by our Agency of Record - Thesis. All of our Partners and event history can be found at TEDxPortland.com. Christine Sinclair is a Canadian soccer legend and one of the greatest players in the sport’s history. She has captained Canada’s national team and holds the record as the world’s all-time leading goal scorer in international soccer. Known for her leadership, skill, and clutch performances, Christine has represented Canada in multiple World Cups and Olympic Games, winning gold at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. At the NWSL club level, she played for the Portland Thorns from 2013 to 2023, winning three championships for the Rose City. A role model on and off the field, Christine retired from international play in 2023 and NWSL club play in 2024 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

With the talk on Foresight Readiness, we will be exploring how organizations can thrive amid uncertainty; revealing how learning, change management, marketing, and communication empower practitioners to embed futures thinking and build lasting adaptability for the challenges ahead. Sabrina Ash is a design strategy consultant with a diverse background in interior design and architecture, specializing in design research and advancing the future of the built environment through cross-disciplinary collaboration and foresight-driven approaches.Hailey Appel is a strategic-minded Senior Copywriter responsible for building brands and shaping consumer opinions through her writing. Their TEDx talk will explore how organizations can thrive amid uncertainty by embedding futures thinking. 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

Is who you want to be, really who you are? Don't ask a child what they want to be, says Standa. Instead, encourage them to try a range of experiences to give them the freedom to discover their passions. Standa has lived in Nigeria, South Africa and Japan, experiences that have shaped his adaptability, resilience and drive to understand the science of what makes us who we are. His exposure to diverse cultures and environments complements his passion for acting, where he explores the depth of human emotions and identities. As a seasoned actor, he has portrayed complex roles on international stages, uncovering the nuances of personality and behaviour – skills that also fuel his empathy and leadership in the student council. Standa’s journey bridges his curiosity about the human experience, blending science, leadership, and the art of performance. 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

In his TEDxWilmingtonSalon talk, Greg Cannon powerfully dismantles the myth that your zip code at birth determines your destiny. Drawing from lived experience and professional insight, he challenges the systemic narratives that limit potential based on geography. His message is clear and inspiring: with opportunity, mindset, and support, anyone can rise beyond their circumstances and create a life of purpose, achievement, and impact. Greg Cannon is a transformational leader, speaker, and strategist committed to helping individuals and organizations live their Ideal Life by inspiring trust, motivating others, and cultivating authentic community. As the founder of Make It Cannon, Greg blends purpose-driven storytelling with practical tools to ignite growth and unlock potential. Known for his dynamic energy and servant leadership, Greg partners with schools, nonprofits, and businesses to drive cultural change and elevate impact. Whether on stage or in strategy sessions, his mission is clear: to empower people to lead with intention, connect with clarity, and make every moment count. 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