A sense of belonging and valued contribution, is the bedrock of any thriving environment, whether it's a team, a company, or a community. But lately, we’ve seen a shift. Governments and corporations, for various reasons, are pulling back on these initiatives. Some argue they’ve become divisive; others struggle to see their tangible impact. Prof. Barker shares that the fundamental need for inclusive and respectful environments hasn't vanished. In fact, in our increasingly interconnected and complex world, it’s more critical than ever. She proposes that It’s time to move beyond the acronym and embrace a more holistic and universally applicable framework called: Cultural Competence. Dr. Kimberley Barker is a global thinker, educator, and author with a passion for helping people and organizations thrive through cultural competence. She holds a Ph.D. in Organization Development, an M.B.A., and is a certified cultural management coach with the renowned Fons Trompenaars’ network. As a faculty member at Eastern Michigan University, she teaches a wide array of business and leadership courses while continuing to speak internationally on change, communication, and diversity. Kimberley’s work centers on equipping professionals to lead with authenticity and navigate complex cultural landscapes with care and clarity. 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

Prof. Mustafa shares her personal and professional journey with mental health as a Black woman and therapist. Her talk emphasizes the transformative power of vulnerability, community, and storytelling in dismantling mental health stigma within Black communities—especially in Ypsilanti. Dr. Aesha Mustafa is a licensed clinical social worker, educator, and mental health advocate deeply rooted in the Ypsilanti community. As co-owner of Integrative Empowerment Group and Assistant Professor at Eastern Michigan University, she brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and academic insight to her work. Her commitment to serving BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities is reflected in her trauma-informed practice and her advocacy for culturally responsive care. Through public platforms like Enlighten U and her therapy practice, Dr. Mustafa challenges stigma and champions healing as a communal act. Her voice is a powerful reminder that vulnerability is strength, and mental health care must be inclusive, accessible, and affirming. 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

Jaye Hill brings a powerful message about grief, loss, and healing. Through deeply personal reflections, he highlights how vulnerability and community can help us rebuild ourselves after life’s hardest moments. His message is rooted in over 15 years of motivational speaking experience. Jaye Hill is a motivational speaker and professional development expert with over 15 years of experience inspiring audiences to find hope and healing through life’s most difficult moments. A Pittsburgh native and passionate communicator, Jaye shares his personal journey with grief and transformation to remind others that brokenness can lead to breakthrough. He regularly speaks at universities, schools, and corporate events across the country, using faith, vulnerability, and resilience to foster connection and growth. Jaye believes that even in our darkest seasons, we carry the potential to rebuild stronger than before. 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 the key to financial success isn't just about income—but about how you see your future? In this talk, Mr. Grandstaff challenges the notion that financial success is only for the lucky, the privileged, or the perfectly sighted. As a blind entrepreneur, strategist, and community-builder, he's learned how bias, systemic barriers, and internal doubts can dim opportunity—but also how to break through. He’ll share his journey from navigating unemployment and inaccessible systems to becoming a leader who helps others unlock their potential. Jeremy W. Grandstaff is a strategist, entrepreneur, and inclusion advocate who’s spent over 25 years helping individuals and organizations grow with purpose. As someone who is blind, Jeremy brings a powerful perspective on resilience and innovation—proving that vision isn’t limited to sight. He currently serves as SVP of Business Development at CurbCutOS, a company focused on digital accessibility, and has led initiatives across corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors. Whether coaching executives or leading financial literacy programs, Jeremy is committed to making success possible for everyone—especially those historically left out of the conversation. His work reminds us that barriers can be broken, and brilliance exists in every direction you’re willing to grow 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

Every great achievement begins with a single step. “Small Steps Today, Big Wins Tomorrow” is a powerful reminder that consistent effort, no matter how small, builds momentum for extraordinary success. This talk explores how daily habits, self-investment, and a growth mindset can transform long-term goals into reality. By focusing on progress over perfection, you’ll learn how to turn today’s simple actions into tomorrow’s biggest victories. Geetha Shetti spent 16 years leading strategy, leadership, and team development across top corporates before pivoting in 2019 to launch Grooming Gurukul Pvt Ltd, an IIM Bangalore-incubated venture. Her mission: to help individuals and organizations activate their next level. From retail staff to CEOs, her team delivers high-impact grooming and soft skills training across luxury brands, corporates, and institutions. Beyond boardrooms, Geetha empowers survivors of human trafficking with life skills and confidence to rebuild their lives. Blending corporate insight with purpose-driven entrepreneurship, she’s on a mission to transform presence into power—and potential into performance—for every life she touches. 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

Faye Caddy is determined to help parents navigate pregnancy and beyond! It’s not a bridge that should be crossed only when the time comes. Future mothers and fathers should prepare as they embark on their career paths, choose employers and build relationships. Faye Caddy is an entrepreneur and former veterinarian in Hong Kong. After the birth of her daughter in 2023 she founded BUMP & CO., Hong Kong's leading social antenatal programme. She also continues to work as a Veterinary Management Consultant. 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