Our 2026 Youth Speakers
TEDxMiramar is proud to present our 2026 youth speakers. Each speaker has been handpicked by a selected panel to
ensure we bring you the best of the best. Find out more about each speaker, below.
Al Loureiro
Enterprise Leadership
Al Loureiro is a Managing Director at TIAA. With over a decade in wealth management before moving into enterprise leadership, he brings a rare combination of technical depth and people-first leadership to everything he does.
Alfonso holds the CFP®️, CIMA®️, and Six Sigma Black Belt designations, an MBA in Financial Management. The son of immigrant parents and bilingual in Spanish, Alfonso is passionate about expanding access to financial literacy. He is Chairman of the Board for Junior Achievement Palm Beaches and founder of The Standard Path, a free leadership program for young men. He also coaches youth soccer, and as a lifelong speaker has delivered keynotes to audiences ranging from corporate offsites to youth conferences of over 1,000 students.
He is a father of four, and his work — on and off the stage — is anchored by one belief: You Are the Investment..
Gavin Edwards
Student
Gavin Edwards is an 8-year-old adventurer who believes every day should include a new challenge. Heading into fourth grade, Gavin is known for his wild personality, big heart, and fearless spirit. From dog sledding in Alaska to swimming with sharks in Hawaii and snake hunting in the Florida Everglades, there isn’t an adventure he doesn’t want to try. He’s also an avid fisherman who has already landed a blue marlin and a sailfish. Earlier this year, Gavin was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. Instead of letting it slow him down, he made it just another adventure to overcome. Today, Gavin is excited to share how courage, a positive attitude, and a little determination can help you face life’s biggest challenges. Because if an 8-year-old can face life’s biggest challenges with courage and a smile, maybe we all can.
Jaeda Lebrun
Student
Jaeda Lebrun is a 16-year-old high school junior at Western High School with a passion for public speaking and advocacy. She serves as the secretary of her school’s Speech & Debate team and she was a 2026 qualifier to the National Speech and Debate Tournament. Outside of debate, Jaeda has collaborated with a D.C. law firm on a case and advocated on Capitol Hill. Additionally, she led teams to re-start a business and develop a public health campaign in Nigeria. Knowing that people still need help motivates Jaeda to share her message even further. In her talk, Jaeda hopes to inspire and motivate teenage girls who grew up online and fell victim to comparison, highlighting that their worth is not based on how they look. Even the “harmless” social media trends that young adults follow online often has a greater impact than what meets the eye. A fun fact about Jaeda is that she is a sucker for good ol’ puns!
Jonathan Kleyman
Student
Jonathan is a 17 year old student from Miami who attends Scheck Hillel Community School. He is passionate about business, investing, and learning about the stock market. Outside of school, he enjoys playing soccer and basketball, reading, cooking, and traveling. One of his favorite things about traveling is that every place teaches him something new and helps him see the world from a different perspective.
Jonathan is always looking for ways to grow and become a better version of himself, and he loves asking questions that challenge the way he thinks. This TEDx talk is especially meaningful to him because it comes from his own experience growing up with technology. He hopes sharing his story encourages others to see technology from a different perspective and sparks meaningful conversations between teenagers and adults.
Lyla is a passionate speaker who brings energy, authenticity, and a fresh perspective to every audience she meets. Growing up in the digital age, she embraced the opportunities and challenges that came with the rise of the internet, learning how technology shapes relationships, creativity, and personal growth.
As a child, Lyla found joy in dancing, using movement as a way to express herself and connect with others. Her love for dance taught her confidence, discipline, and the importance of embracing who you are.
Today, Lyla combines her life experiences with a relatable storytelling style to inspire young people to pursue their passions, use technology wisely, and never lose sight of the simple joys that make life meaningful. Her message encourages audiences to stay true to themselves, dream boldly, and dance through every season of life.
Lyla Milcent
Student
Kelsey Latimore
Student
Kelsey Latimore is a rising sixth-grade student at Glades Middle School whose passion for leadership, academic excellence, and service is already making an impact.
A straight-A Honor Roll student, Kelsey is dedicated to achieving excellence while encouraging others to reach their full potential.
Kelsey is the recipient of the Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) Character Award, recognizing outstanding character, integrity, and leadership. As the Head Gem in the GEMS and GENTS Mentoring Program, Kelsey inspired peers through mentorship,
encouragement, and leading by example. Kelsey is also a member of the Sea Castle Debate Team, where a love for public speaking, critical thinking, and meaningful dialogue continues to grow.
Through the TEDxYouth stage, Kelsey hopes to inspire others to embrace their voice, lead with confidence, and understand that age is never a barrier to creating positive change
Micah Aristide
Student
Micah Aristide is a 15-year-old sophomore at Chaminade Madonna who enjoys challenging himself both academically and personally. He values hard work, spending time with his family and friends, and staying active while always striving to become the best version of himself. His TEDx talk focuses on the importance of hard work and believing in yourself, sharing lessons that have helped him grow and overcome challenges. Although he is still working toward many of his goals, Micah is committed to learning, improving, and making the most of every opportunity. A fun fact about him is that he wears a size 15 shoe.
Student
Sofia Barone is a 16 year old high school junior who has spent much of her life between Italy and the United States. Fluent in both Italian and English, she is the oldest of six children, three girls and three boys. Growing up in a large family has helped shape her leadership skills, sense of responsibility, and appreciation for meaningful relationships.
Student
Taylor Berry is a 17-year-old student-athlete, youth leader, and community advocate at Everglades High School, where she is in 11th grade. Driven by a passion for golf, public speaking, and meaningful change, she believes young people have the power to lead and create impact now. Taylor serves as President of the City of Miramar Youth Advisory Council, President of her school’s Black Student Union, and Captain of the golf team. She is also a member of the National League of Cities Youth Advisory Council, contributing youth perspectives to national conversations. Inspired by growth, faith, and representation, Taylor is committed to uplifting voices that are often unheard. Her TEDx talk explores belonging in a digital age, reflecting on identity, pressure, and connection. In her free time, she is learning Mandarin Chinese while continuing to grow as a leader.
Student
Nya Adrien is an 11-year-old multifaceted student, athlete and emerging leader who is stepping confidently into middle school. Inspired by her family and teachers, she brings curiosity, courage and determination to everything she does. Nya enjoys dancing, running track, and spending time with the people she loves most.
Student
Nova Duncanson is a 10-year-old fifth-grade student at Horizon Learning with a curious mind and a natural instinct to lead. After hearing Hidden Figures, Nova developed a fascination with aerospace engineering and the people who make space exploration possible. A proud NASA enthusiast, she loves the idea of exploring space—but from the safety of Earth, designing the technology that makes those missions possible.
Nova Duncanson
Nya H. Adrien
Taylor Berry
Sofia Barone
Psychologist
Dr. Andrea McKie is a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Navy. Following, she worked in Federal Service with clients requiring mental health, substance abuse and sexual assault prevention and response services for several years. She is the Founder of Sisters In Arms Empowerment Movement, an organization dedicated to violence prevention, and violence restoration in the lives of women and girls. She is a published author, award recipient for developing innovative training for military service personnel. Currently, Dr Andrea Mckie serves as a Licensed Substance Abuse Practitioner and Certified Trauma Professional within a hospital system.
Dr Andrea's TEDx Talk
Xavier Murphy
Radio Host
Xavier Murphy is the founder of Jamaicans.com and a pioneer of web-based technology for the Jamaican Diaspora. He hosts the popular web series “Jamaicans to the World” and co-founded the Annual Anancy Festival in South Florida. A dedicated community leader, Xavier is the founding president of JCOBAFL and has been honored as “Innovator of the Year” and a “Jamaica Diaspora Champion in Media.” His extensive accolades include awards from the Jamaican Consulate and the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association. Xavier lives in South Florida with his wife, Karen, and their three daughters.
Xavier's TEDx Talk
Photographer
Byron has been the co-organizer of TEDxEustis from 2017-2025. He is an Expert Level Certified Photographer, Certified Qualified Bartending Graduate, and has downloaded an honorary degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the field of Leisure Science from Abide University and Institute. For the past several years, Byron has been working on a project to see how easy it is to get certified in a subject you know nothing about.
Byron lives in Central Florida and enjoys travel. He's just a few states away from finishing visits to all 50 states, and will probably end in Fargo North Dakota so he can get the Best for Last Club Certificate offered there.
Byron's TEDx Talk
Health & Wellness Coach
Julie Jacques is a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach and
founder of Empower Thrive Wellness, where she helps people transform
burnout into breakthrough. After experiencing her own journey through the "invisible toxins" of chaos, overwork, and misaligned success, Julie now
coaches others to create clarity, resilience, and harmony by removing what no longer serves them. With a background in education, entrepreneurship, and leadership development, plus experience as a TEDx Speaker Coach and Toastmaster, Julie shares practical wisdom on redefining success from the inside out.
Julie's TEDx Talk
Psychologist
Dr. Ralph J. Hughes is an organizational psychologist and leadership mindset strategist, a distinguished college professor with over 20 years of experience, and a retired federal law enforcement officer with nearly three decades of service. He has held leadership and faculty roles across higher education and government, bringing deep expertise in organizational leadership, communication, and professional development. Dr. Hughes is also a podcast host and the author of two books. He continues to teach at the university level and works with organizations to cultivate leadership practices rooted in servant leadership, ethical decision-making, and emotional intelligence.
Dr Ralph's TEDx Talk
Heart Sista
Benny Salas, a dynamic and sought-after professional speaker, is also an ICF certified Executive Coach known for blending storytelling and communication techniques to empower individuals in both their personal and professional growth.
With a wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in professional speaking, coaching, training, and development, Benny serves as the driving force behind That Coaching Guy Inc., where he holds the positions of Founder and CEO. His exceptional expertise is directed towards companies, leaders, executives, business owners, and their teams.
Benny's TEDx Talk
Student
Trevor Metzler is a scholar-athlete at The Pine School, competitive rower, and TEDx speaker with interests in finance, history, public policy and the outdoors. Rowing since fifth grade, Trevor has earned medals and completed a two-week intensive program hosted by US Rowing at the Head of the Hooch in Chattanooga. He and two classmates recently placed second overall of 21 regional high schools in the Wall Street South Stock Pitch Competition. Since age 12 Trevor volunteers at the Homeless Coalition and started a pet sitting business. He is also co-founder of Legacy in Motion, a youth-led site showcasing innovators and news.
Trevor's TEDx Talk
Author - Real Estate - Law
ROYAL BRAND COACH H.E. Dr. Diane Moore-Eubanks Esq. is an International Thought leader & award winning Georgetown University Attorney, former White House Associate General Counsel, UN Goodwill Ambassador, US Presidential Lifetime Achievement awardee, Congressional award recipient, Ghanian Royal & President of GODSU, an accredited University, who has helped over 1,000 C-suite executives, coaches and entrepreneurs in 79 countries in 15 years to build their ROYAL BRAND to increase income, credibility & freedom.
Dr Diane's TEDx Talk
Student
Zurich Ronert is a student at The Benjamin School with a passion for biotechnology, innovation, and human potential. A dedicated rower, national debate competitor, and finalist in the Duke Business Competition, Zurich has created biotech and health-focused apps that reflect his drive to merge science with impact. Deeply inspired by philosophy, self-improvement, and the pursuit of inner fulfillment, his work explores what it means to lead with clarity, purpose, and empathy. In his TEDx talk, Zurich shares how rowing transformed his understanding of teamwork and leadership—on the water and in everyday life.
Zurich's TEDx Talk
Benny Salas
Byron Faudie
Julie Jacques
Dr. Diane Moore-Eubanks
Trevor Metzler
Dr Andrea McKie
Dr. Ralph Hughes
Zurich Ronert
Antoinette Apolon
Singer - Song Writer
Antoinette Apolon is a speaker and performer of many talents. For over a decade and a half, she’s navigated the music industry as a songwriter and producer. While she currently makes waves as a real estate investor, her heart remains in the music.
Antoinette's TEDx Performance
Yakov Bensabat
Student
Yakov Bensabat, 16, is a junior at Scheck Hillel Community School and a multi-sport varsity athlete who has learned as much from the locker room as the classroom. Selected as one of just five Gilinski Ambassadors at his school, he has built a track record of leadership and community impact, alongside honors including Most Improved Basketball Player and Honor Roll recognition.
Driven by faith, family, and a genuine desire to lift up the people around him, Yakov spends his time fishing, training, and mentoring younger students. In his TEDx talk, he explores how to strike a real balance with technology, treating the internet not as a replacement for life but as a tool to fuel growth, learning, and in-person experience. His middle name, Sasson, means "happiness" in Hebrew, and he tries to live up to it every day.
Dr. Terrance Leftridge
Leadership Coach
Dr. Terrance Leftridge is an empowerment coach, speaker, and communication strategist who helps entrepreneurs, professionals, and emerging leaders find the confidence to communicate with clarity, authenticity, and purpose. Through years of coaching speakers and business leaders, he has witnessed how discovering one's authentic voice can transform not only careers, but lives. Passionate about helping others unlock their potential, Dr. Leftridge equips people to lead with conviction, inspire meaningful action, and become the fullest expression of who they were created to be.
Dr. Withza Laurin-Nibbs
Educator
Dr. Withza Laurin-Nibbs is a distinguished counselor, educator, TEDx Coach (2024 & 2025) volunteer, and nonprofit founder whose career is rooted in a calling to restore hope and elevate human potential. Her academic and professional expertise encompasses human development, family systems, and emotional wellness fields through which she channels a unique blend of clinical knowledge and spiritual insight.
Jayson Eugene
Student
Jayson Eugene is 14 years old and an upcoming freshman in high school. He is the third child in his family and is proud to be both a son and a brother. From a young age, Jayson has focused on growth, discipline, and becoming the best version of himself.
Joseph Tapper
Saxaphonist
Joseph Tapper is an author, recording artist, inspirational speaker, and saxophonist whose mission is to prove that music is more than entertainment—it is a catalyst for healing, hope, and human connection. After more than 25 years in technology, health, and recovery, he embraced his calling to inspire lives through the universal language of music. Joseph has performed for governors, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, and dignitaries from around the world, yet his greatest achievement is touching one heart at a time. Through his signature message, Music That Heals, he invites audiences to rediscover joy, gratitude, and resilience. Guided by the belief that love is our greatest gift, Joseph lives by a simple philosophy: “I don’t ask for anything, but I’m thankful for everything.”
Our 2026 Speakers
TEDxMiramar is proud to present our 2026 speakers. Each speaker has been handpicked by a selected panel to
ensure we bring you the best of the best. Find out more about each speaker, below.
Dr. Anthony Richiez
Educator
Dr. Anthony Richiez is a recognized keynote speaker, author, and expert in Dynamic Teaching. He revolutionizes teaching by guiding educators to elevate their methods, resulting in more dynamic classrooms and improved student learning. He is the founder of Dynamic Education, a company dedicated to improving instruction for the academic growth of schools in the United States and around the world.
Dr Anthony's TEDx Talk
August Komkov
World Champion Ballroom Dancer
August Komkov is a prominent 11-year-old world champion ballroom dancer who represents Team USA in international competitions. Based in both South Florida and Pennsylvania, he specializes in the Ballroom and Latin disciplines. He is widely recognized as a rising elite talent in the global dancesport community, often compared to Olympic-level athletes for his rigorous training regimen.
August's TEDx Performance
Lona Fink
Speaker Coach
Lona Fink spent over 25 years in Corporate America, leading partner enablement and customer success initiatives, before an ADHD diagnosis at age 48 reframed how she understood success, burnout, and self-trust. What once looked like perfectionism, she discovered, was often relentless masking. Today, Lona is the founder of Elevate Authentically, a TEDx and communication coach who has guided eight speakers to the red dot, and the creator of Divine Messages of Light and Love. Through story, science, and lived experience, she champions neurodiversity and authentic expression, helping audiences replace self-judgment with clarity, compassion, and courageous self-understanding in their daily lives.
Lona's TEDx Talk
Tayten Reed
Student
Tayten Reed is a graduate of J.P. Taravella High School in Coral Springs, Florida, where he served on the Student Council and held the position of Commanding Officer of the Naval Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (NJROTC) unit, leading it to earn the prestigious Unit Achievement Award, reflecting a strong commitment to excellence and discipline.
Tayten now attends Florida State University, majoring in Political Science. He aspires to earn a commission as a United States Marine Corps officer and become a Marine aviator.
Tayten's TEDx Talk
TEDxMiramar is proud to present our 2025 youth speakers. Each speaker has been handpicked by a selected panel
to ensure we bring you the best of the best. Find out more about each speaker, below.
Anthony Faucette
Success Strategist
Anthony Faucette is a combat veteran of the United States Army who served in Ramadi and Baghdad, Iraq. He holds an MBA from Georgia State University and a bachelor’s in Transportation and Logistics Management from North Carolina A&T State University. After his military and corporate careers, he now empowers others as a success strategist, author of The Success Variable, and passionate advocate for purpose-driven leadership.
Anthony's TEDx Talk
Dylan Moody
Varsity Captain Athlete
Dylan Moody is a young man full of faith and leadership who strives to elevate others. His passions include faith, basketball, and spending time with friends and family. As a Varsity Captain athlete, Dylan is driven by discipline and teamwork both on and off the court. Inspired by Jesus Christ, he is committed to becoming the best version of himself while encouraging others to do the same.
In his 2025 TEDx talk, Dylan shares how faith, purpose, and perseverance can help people unlock their potential and step into their true strength.
A fun fact about Dylan: he’s left-handed and knows how to surf!
Dylan's TEDx Talk
Elijah Couri
Sports Enthusiast & Youth Speaker
Elijah Couri is a 17-year-old senior. The youngest of three and the only son in his family, Elijah, known to friends as Eli, is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys basketball, soccer, and football. When he’s not on the court or field, he can be found at the gym, gaming, or spending time with friends. Elijah aspires to pursue a career as a physical therapist for athletes or a biotechnician.
Elijah's TEDx Talk
Jaylen Martin
Future Pilot & College Student
Jaylen is college freshman and aspiring professional pilot with a deep passion for aviation. A proud recipient of the AICE Diploma, he also completed a high school internship with the local fire department. When he’s not flying toward his dreams, Jaylen enjoys reading historical fantasy novels and listening to Neo-Soul and rock music. Inspired by his family, his TEDx talk explores how passion fuels success and shapes his journey forward.
Ethan Davis
College Student & Youth Speaker
Ethan Davis is a first-year college student who has a passion for saving lives and serving his community. Currently pursuing a career as a firefighter paramedic, Ethan is driven by purpose, discipline, and a deep desire to make a difference. An athlete at heart, Ethan played baseball throughout school, where he learned teamwork, perseverance, and the power of dedication.Ethan has the values that continue to shape his journey today. He also volunteers alongside his mother with Heart Sistas Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering families and promoting heart health. When he’s not studying or serving, Ethan enjoys writing poetry, meeting new people, and working out. His journey hasn’t always been easy, but his resilience, faith, and determination have made him stronger with every challenge.
Ethan's TEDx Talk
Mia Heidorn is a 17-year-old high school senior who loves exploring new places and approaches life with a positive, adventurous spirit. She enjoys shopping, spending time with friends and family, and making the most of every opportunity that comes her way.
In her TEDx talk, Mia shares her personal journey of feeling left out and discovering how to turn loneliness into strength by finding comfort in her own company. Her message inspires others to embrace solitude as a path toward self-growth, confidence, and lasting happiness.
A fun fact about Mia is that she is extremely organized, something that helps her stay balanced and ready for every new adventure.
Mia Heidorn
Youth Speaker
Our 2025 Youth Speakers
Mia Jeannopoulos
Ballet Dancer & Founder of Pointe of Possibility
Youth Speaker Mia Jeannopoulos is a 15-year-old junior and the founder of Pointe of Possibility, a nonprofit bringing free ballet classes to underserved youth. She serves as Secretary for Youth in Government, is a core member of Florida’s Student School Board Member Initiative, and represents Brown Girls Do Ballet as a Youth Ambassador. A Girl Scout for eight years, Mia continues her service as Youth Leader for Friends of Paradis des Indiens, supporting schools in Haiti. She hopes to pursue a career in foreign service.
Mia's TEDx Talk
Michelle LeWay
Professional Clown
Michelle LeWay is excited to return to TEDxMiramar, this time supporting TEDxMiramar Youth. A two-time Distinguished Toastmaster and speaking coach for both TEDxMiramar and Global Women of Impact, she has guided countless speakers to find their authentic voice. Michelle has also led 17 Youth Leadership Programs across Palm Beach County, helping young people develop confidence and communication skills. With a background in theatre, improvisation, and storytelling, she believes everyone, no matter their age, deserves to be heard. A proud Pittsburgh native and self-described “50-year-old kid,” Michelle works as a Procurement Specialist for the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach. Fiercely devoted to her family, friends, the Muppets, and a strong cup of coffee, she’s passionate about helping others achieve what they once thought impossible. Her talk centers on protecting and preserving one of the world’s most vital resources: their imagination.
Michelle's TEDx Talk
Founder of Reading with Royalty & College Student
Sudan Eubanks is an 18-year-old freshman at Georgetown University, double majoring in Justice and Peace Studies and Religion, Politics, and the Common Good on the pre-law track. She is the founder of Reading With Royalty, a global literacy nonprofit with volunteers across seven countries. Passionate about storytelling, service, and justice, Sudan’s TEDx talk, “The Stir Fry of Life: Tried, Fried, and True,” explores finding meaning in life’s mix of challenges and joys
Music is Sudan’s constant companion, she’s almost always listening to something, from NPR Tiny Desks to eclectic playlists or live shows. Averaging over 3,000 minutes of listening a week, she’s earned the title of “Best Aux” among her friends and has a knack for spotting samples and interpolations at record speed. If you play a song she recognizes, expect an excited tangent and maybe a friendly debate over your Spotify Wrapped.
Sudan's TEDx Talk
Mindset Ninja
Cassi Eubank is a dynamic force in the realm of personal growth and transformation. As an International Speaker, Best-Selling Author, Clinical Hypnotherapist, and visionary Founder of Spiritual Alliance, she has dedicated her life to empowering individuals to unlock the immense potential within their minds.
Cassi's TEDx Talk
Poet
Nicola is a dynamic voice in the intersection of creativity, resilience,
and reinvention. She brings a fresh perspective shaped by diverse experiences and an unshakable belief
in the power of storytelling to spark transformation. Nicola is driven by a single question: What if we dared to think differently?
Check back later for Nicola's Talk
Basketball Player & Youth Speaker
Nehemiah Salas is a 12-year-old sixth grader with a passion for basketball, football, science, creative arts, and video games. A proud basketball champion with an 11-0 season record, he’s inspired by his family and driven by a winning mindset. In his TEDx talk, “What Do You Do When the Ball Doesn’t Bounce Your Way,” Nehemiah shares how to stay motivated through challenges.
Fun fact: he loves making amazing origami creations!
Nehemiah's TEDx Talk
President of the Debate Team
Nathaniel Occean is a 17-year-old senior. He thrives in speech & debate and dramatic interpretation. He is passionate about performance, public speaking, and creative storytelling, honing his voice through poetry, competitive debate, and youth leadership. At this year’s TEDxMiramar Youth Event, Nathaniel will share how embracing vulnerability and narrative empowers growth and inspires connection.
Nathaniel's TEDx Talk
Nathaniel Occean
Nehemiah Salas
Nicola Daniel-Symonette
Sudan Eubanks
Our 2024 Speakers
Cassi Eubanks
Alicia Couri
Confidence Expert
Alicia Couri, is the CEO of Audacious Concepts Inc. a boutique corporate consulting firm, and the founder of RedCarpetCEO™, a Personal Branding & Digital Media Co. Alicia has been awarded the G9-Global Icon Award at the First Ladies Forum in Dubai, named the Top Audacious Confidence Growth Expert & the Empowered Woman Award by the International Association of Top Professionals. She is an international speaker, author, actor, webshow & podcast producer/host, and a Legacy Queen for Woman of Achievement.
Her passion is to especially help women “Own Their Awesome” through exclusive retreats.
Alicia's TEDx Talk
Diversity & Culture Expert
Tammy is CEO of PCQ Consulting, a boutique agency specializing in company culture, DEI, leadership & management training. A dynamic Trainer and collaborator. Tammy has spent most of her career in healthcare, in this field she has mastered being an empathetic leader. She is a mom of 4 amazing children and a friend to everyone she’s ever met. Tammy’s ability to mix speaking tough truths with empathy has been what has set her apart in her career and industry.
Tammy's TEDx Talk
Ecological Econimist
Chloe’ Vorseth is an ecological economist and PhD candidate at Florida International University in Miami, Florida. Her experiences span from studying ecotourism and environmental education in Cape Town, South Africa, joining fellow FIU students in Washington D.C. to discuss the importance of coastal economies and science communication with lawmakers, serving as president of the Florida Coastal Everglades Long-Term Ecological Research (FCE-LTER) student group at FIU, and receiving scholarships from The Everglades Foundation. Her research focuses on valuing the countless economic contributions of the Everglades, but she is most passionate about teaching anyone and everyone about the environment. She holds a master's degree in Environmental Studies from FIU and a bachelor's degree in Natural Resources and Environmental Science from the University of Kentucky. In her spare time, Chloe’ enjoys reading, cooking, playing the violin, and visiting family in her hometown of Louisville, Kentucky.
Dr. Vorseth's TEDx Talk
Mayor of the City of Miramar and an Immigrant's Son
Mayor Messam is a first-generation American, born to Jamaican parents. Raised in South Bay, Florida, he is a lifelong athlete who proudly attended Florida State University on a full scholarship where he excelled both on and off the football field. Mayor Messam was a member of the 1993 National Championship Team under coach Bobby Bowden and had a brief stint in the National Football League as a Cincinnati Bengal. A highlight for him was when the FSU Black Alumni Association named him “Student of the Year” in 1996 for his exceptional accomplishments as a student-athlete. He graduated from FSU with a bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems in 1997.
A Licensed General Contractor and LEED-Accredited Professional, Mayor Messam is a prominent professional in the construction industry. His company, Messam Construction, is one of the fastest growing minority construction management firms in Florida building projects in the Education, Aviation, and Healthcare Sectors.
The Mayor's TEDx Talk
Intrepid Traveler
As a producer in the film industry, Carolyn created industrial training videos and television commercials. In 1983 she began presenting her inter-active high energy training programs on Professional Development and Leadership to audiences throughout the United States, Canada, Southeast Asia, China and New Zealand. Carolyn is the author of “Make An Impact, Use It or Lose It”. Carolyn is an Intrepid traveler. She has circled the globe twice and recently returned from an expedition to Antarctica. For 20 years, Carolyn was a caregiver for her husband with Parkinson’s Disease. During that time Carolyn became very active in numerous Parkinson’s support groups, was interviewed by Neurology Now Magazine and The Parkinsons Foundation. Because she gained great insight into dealing with senior challenges, attitudes and disabilities, she was prompted to write her best selling book “Suddenly A Senior, How Did It Happen So Soon”.
Carolyn's TEDx Talk
The Mindful Visionary
The Mindful Visionary conveys my ability to combine creative thinking with spiritual insight, leading others on transformative journeys of self-awareness and growth. As an Inter Spiritual Minister and Mindfulness Meditation Practitioner trained under the guidance of renowned mentors Jack Canfield and Tara Brach, Dr. Maurice Fuller has dedicated his life to the harmonious convergence of spirituality and science. With 40 years of experience as a Pharmacist and a Master of Public Health, he brings a unique perspective that transcends traditional boundaries. A captivating Storyteller and Motivational Speaker, Maurice has touched the hearts of audiences worldwide with his insightful narratives of personal growth and transformation. At the core of Maurice’s essence lies innovation, boldness, and an inter-spiritual approach. Embodying creativity and cuttng-edge thinking, he weaves mindfulness into every endeavor, guiding individuals towards a deeper connection with their authentic selves.
Dr Fuller's TEDx Talk
Heart Sista
Hyvelle is a wife and a loving mother of two beautiful children. She is the founder of Heart Sistas, an organization that brings awareness and education to underrepresented women about women’s health with a diverse group of women.
Hyvelle holds positions with:
The American Heart Association; the American Diabetes Association and the Ambassador Mended Hearts Advisory Action Network.
Hyvelle is also a stroke, heart attack, and quadruple bypass survivor, living a purposeful life despite her diagnoses after navigating the complications of her illnesses and the treacherous complexity of our healthcare system; she became extremely concerned about disparities in treatments and dissemination of information that she wasn't aware of before she became ill; to better her survival outcome, Hyvelle joined many health groups and organizations to learn how to gain the upper hand. She turned her focus to advocacy as she learned more about the link between diabetes and heart disease.
Hyvelle's TEDx Talk - A TEDx 2024 Editor's Pick video
Transformational Guide & Spoken Word Visionary
Blaze is a multifaceted performer, celebrated as a spoken word visionary. His journey is marked by a profound faith in the universe and a fervent belief in the law of attraction. He's experienced firsthand the extraordinary power of faith, often witnessing the spiritual long before it manifests in the natural world.
With a unique gift for igniting the spark of vision within, Blaze doesn't impose his views on others; instead, he empowers them to recognize their innate strength. He understands that true transformation begins within, and he excels in helping individuals visualize themselves in a way that redefines their perspective on life.
Blaze's TEDx Talk
Relationship Expert
Deborah Brown, the Relationship Explorer, is on a mission to turn life and relationships into the most exhilarating journey you've ever experienced.
Deborah is a certified coach, speaker, author and trainer with a passion for travel. As a firm believer that laughter is the best medicine, she is here to sprinkle a little fun on the path to personal and relationship growth.
As your partner in creating an adventure-filled route to improvement, Deborah develops simple communication and action strategies for maximum impact. She helps her clients create their best expression of themselves so they can show up powerfully, confidently and authentically in both their personal and professional lives. Deborah believes that life and relationships can be like a roller coaster and she is simply here to help you enjoy the ride.
Deborah's TEDx Talk - A TEDx 2024 Editor's Pick video
Serial Entrepreneur
Jim Barber began his career as a serial entrepreneur in 1979. Since then, he has been an international speaker, a technical trainer, master of ceremonies, podcaster, a body-double (for George Washington), and a voice-over talent. He’s also a writer – he’s written 19 books (including his latest, Think 3.0) as well as being a book editor and proofreader. Jim has a love/hate relationship with computers – he’s been programming since the early 1970s, he had his own business computer system in 1982, and he was developing content for the Internet before the World Wide Web was even developed. Recently, he’s created a variety of websites, ecommerce sites, and membership sites. Jim also enjoys un-confusing people, so he’s both enthralled and appalled at the awesome potential that artificial intelligence holds, and he is delighted to help people survive the impending AI Apocalypse.
Jim's TEDx Talk
Retired Judge and Former Teacher
Geraldine Hogan is a former elementary school teacher, licensed attorney, and retired judge. She is also certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a Circuit Court Mediator. Since her retirement from the judiciary in 2018, Geraldine has dedicated time to helping parties resolve legal disputes through mediation, avoiding the need for judicial intervention.
Geraldine's TEDx Talk
Blaze Daktari Goldsmith
Dr. Chloe' Vorseth
Wayne Messam
Carolyn Stein
Jim Barber
Deborah Brown
Hyvelle Ferguson-Davis
Tammy Triolo
Dr. Maurice Fuller
Geraldine Hogan
Tracey Jackson
Cultural Divergent
Tracey Jackson is a South Florida based speaker and author. She has several self-published works: From The Valley To The Mountaintop - Lessons from the Journey (Inspirational), The Summer of Chances (full-length African American fiction novel), and "From Yaad" (Caribbean themed short novel).
Tracey's TEDx Talk
