Being neurodivergent isn’t an obstacle—it’s my superpower, and my story proves it." Shaun has launched companies, pioneered aerospace research, and worked with SpaceX, Rocket Lab, and the FAA—all by leveraging the very traits society sees as obstacles. This talk delivers a powerful message that challenges the stigma around autism, offering a deeply personal, inspiring perspective on how embracing neurodiversity fosters innovation, resilience, and success, inspiring those who feel different to reframe their struggles into strengths and boldly pursue their dream. Shaun Deardorff is the Founder and CEO of Airmage Media Productions, a nationwide drone and media production company, and a seasoned entrepreneur behind multiple other startups and ventures. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Aerospace Engineering at North Carolina State University. With work experience at SpaceX, Rocket Lab, and the FAA, he has earned prestigious fellowships and awards, including the Miller Fellowship 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

: Greg shares how shifting your communication and mindset can create deeper understanding across generations and help us all build stronger personal and professional relationships Greg Singleton is a coach, speaker and generational strategist who helps individuals and organizations close the communication gaps to create clear, concise messaging - rather than chaotic or confrontational exchanges. He blends real-world experience with storytelling to inspire lasting 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

In this talk, Dr. Rita Renee challenges the status quo of DEI initiatives by advocating for a shift from checkbox diversity to true belonging, merit, and excellence. Her message is a bold call to prioritize qualifications, value diverse thought, and create spaces where everyone can rise on the strength of their contribution. Dr. Rita Renee is an international speaker, healthcare leader, and empowerment strategist who helps women “come off mute” by embracing their authentic voices with courage and clarity. She is the founder of Ultimate PowerHouse Coach. 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 a world where relentless marketing has turned our closets into battlegrounds for trends and superficial ideals, our mental health often pays the price. In this talk, marriage and family therapist Dr. Georgia Sewell explores how we can reclaim fashion as a tool for healing and identity, rather than a source of anxiety. Drawing on her research in fashion psychology and narrative inquiry, she demonstrates how reimagining our wardrobe choices as acts of self-care can empower us. Rather than being manipulated by seasonal trends, we can transform each outfit into a statement of authenticity, a personal manifesto that reflects our journey toward mental and emotional wellness. Imagine swapping out the stress of chasing fleeting trends for the joy of curating a wardrobe that celebrates your unique identity. Georgia Sewell is a licensed marriage and family therapist, writer and researcher exploring the intersection of identity, relationships, and appearance. Through her private practice and podcast, she works with individuals and couples to navigate self-expression, self-worth, and intimacy. Georgia’s background in fashion psychology informs her unique lens on how what we wear both reflects and shapes our inner world. She is currently completing advanced training in Internal Family Systems and developing a non-fiction book on clothing, connection and Self. Her TEDx talk invites us to reconsider fashion as more than aesthetic- seeing it instead as a language of identity within relationships. 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

What if your greatest strengths are hidden inside the messiest parts of your story? In this deeply personal talk, Erika Aquino reveals how owning every chapter — including struggle, labels, and uncertainty — can uncover surprising inner strengths. Through the lens of a childhood board game and hard-won insights, this talk invites us to reclaim our narrative and discover the power to live a life without limits. Over 20 years of executive leadership experience, a Master's in Communication, an MBA, and a lifelong love for words, Erika Aquino is a force to be reckoned with.Erika's background from a developing country, combined with her extensive travels, equips her with a unique global perspective. She offers fresh, grounded insights into solving the world's biggest challenges while seamlessly combining useful frameworks and data into spot-on, customized content that delivers actionable insights.As an angel investor, Erika has invested in over 15 ventures. Her portfolio spans key hubs including the Philippines, Singapore, Miami, Austin, Los Angeles, Germany, and the UK. She has a special affinity for women and minority-owned projects with high growth potential in the fields of wellness, agriculture, education, sustainability, and the future of workspaces. 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