In this heartfelt TEDx talk, Felony Misdemeanor describes how doing drag became a journey from rejection to radical self-love. Through humor and honesty, she shares how coming out, embracing drag, and building community turned pain into power— and proves that drag doesn’t just entertain, it saves lives. Felony Misdemeanor is a walking contradiction turned living legend — a drag artist, community leader, icon, and activist who once hated drag and now uses it to save lives. Born from resistance and refined through purpose, Felony doesn’t just perform — she transforms. Her story is one of rebellion turned revelation: proof that healing can wear lashes and a crown. With a sharp tongue and a soft heart, she stormed stages, shattered norms, and stood boldly in spaces that weren’t built for her — and made them hers.Through her work with Planned Parenthood and Black Pride Colorado, she’s amplified the voices of the unheard, the unseen, and the unstoppable. Felony Misdemeanor is more than a name — she’s a movement draped in sequins, shaped by struggle, and committed to reminding every soul that growth is gritty, glittery, and gloriously real.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

Nick explains how one Daoist thought can positively affect ones actions. Nick Liu is a high school student in BIPH who is enthusiastic about philosophy. He is especially curious in ancient Chinese philosophy, which he claimed is “fundamentally different with Western philosophy.” This is why for his Tedx talk, he decided to talk about how Daoist Ideologies, not the religion, can be used to solve problems in our lives. During his spare time, he likes to bike and read books, including the original copies of ancient Chinese scripture. He said that it makes him feel connected with those intellects from the past. 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

From her personal experience and documentation, Zoe talks the why and how family life matters so much to elephants. Zoe He is a passionate and determined student with a deep love for animals and a drive to make a difference in the world. Though she may be a little shy at first, she thrives on stepping out of her comfort zone—whether it’s trying new activities, taking on challenges, or speaking up for causes she believes in.Her biggest passion is animal welfare, and she dreams of creating real change, whether through advocacy, conservation efforts, or simply inspiring others to take action. She believes even small steps can lead to big impacts and hopes to encourage those around her to join in making the world a kinder, more sustainable place.When she’s not busy brainstorming ways to help animals, Zoe enjoys exploring new hobbies, from creative arts to outdoor adventures. She may not always be the loudest in the room, but her quiet determination and willingness to take on challenges make her a force to be reckoned with. 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

Thomas Long explains the affects of dopamine and some ways one car break addictive habits. Thomas Long is a passionate, driven young man who believes in pushing limits—both his own and others’. With an unstoppable energy and a unique outlook on life, he thrives on challenges and refuses to settle for mediocrity. But his journey hasn’t been without struggles. Through his own battles, he’s learned the power of resilience, and now he’s determined to help others find their own paths to success.Whether it’s through mentorship, encouragement, or leading by example, Thomas wants to inspire people to become the best versions of themselves. He knows that real change starts one person at a time, and he’s committed to making the world brighter through action, not just words.When he’s not motivating those around him, you’ll find him testing his limits—physically, mentally, and creatively—because for Thomas, growth never stops.His motto? *"Obstacles don’t block the path—they are the path."* 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 her powerful TEDx talk, *The Silent Crisis of Coral Reefs*, Kimi Wong, a passionate and concerned student, brings attention to the alarming decline of coral reefs due to global warming. With a mix of personal fascination and deep concern, she explains how rising ocean temperatures are causing widespread coral bleaching—stripping reefs of their vibrant colors and leaving them vulnerable to death. Kimi highlights the devastating ripple effects of this loss, from collapsing marine ecosystems to threatened coastal communities that rely on reefs for protection and food. Though not a scientist, she delivers a compelling, research-backed plea for immediate action, urging everyone—from students to world leaders—to take steps against climate change before these underwater wonders vanish forever. Her talk is a reminder that you don’t need to be an expert to care deeply and fight for our planet’s future. Growing up beside the ocean, Kimi Wong sees what others miss, the silent crisis happening beneath the waves, coral bleaching. The vibrant coral reefs she had grown up looking at were her first love, but it was the documentary Chasing Coral that revealed to her what was the tragic reality. As she saw reefs fade from rainbow colors to bleach white at an accelerating rate, Kimi realized that the solution could not depend on science alone, the world needed to know. 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