NOTE FROM TED: This talk only reflects the speaker's personal religious views and beliefs. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdf“Becoming Free: The Audacity to Be You” challenges the audience to embrace their full, authentic selves as a radical act of freedom. He describes modern society as a “crisis of conformity” that pressures individuals to perform, seek validation, and curate false versions of themselves in pursuit of approval. Through passionate storytelling, Michael argues that true freedom cannot exist while living according to others’ expectations or scripts. Instead, he calls for a bold, unapologetic reclamation of identity, reminding listeners that they were born powerful, valuable, and unique without needing external affirmation. His message is clear: stop performing, start being, and surround yourself with people who support your truth. Freedom, he insists, begins with the courage to be exactly who you are.Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr., affectionately known as Pastor Mike, is a transformative leader, visionary pastor, and one of the most compelling voices in modern faith. As Senior Pastor of First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem, he leads a vibrant community of over 10,000 members with a message rooted in radical love, courageous authenticity, and justice-driven faith. Pastor Mike is the founder of Harlem’s Dream Center and H.O.P.E. Center—spaces committed to creative empowerment and mental health healing. A graduate of Morehouse College and Duke University Divinity School, his leadership has been honored by Ebony Magazine, New York City’s Clergy Advisory Council, and the National Action Network. He is the author of Searching for Agabus and the forthcoming The Way of the Carpenter. Pastor Mike is married to Rev. Dr. LaKeesha N. Walrond, President of New York Theological Seminary, and together they are building a legacy of faith, family, and fearless love. 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