Instagram user emilyannlaliotis contributes to the TEDxYouthDay 2012, “Dream Big…Then Do It!” photo campaign by completing the sentence, “A dream of mine that I commit to making real is…”
To see more dreams shared from youth around the world this past November, visit the TEDxYouthDay website.
For me, being the emcee of [TEDxYouth@TampaBay 2012] was much more of a challenge than merely doing a 15-minute presentation, as I did back in 2011. The reason for this is that this time, when I presented the speakers to the audience, I really had to understand what made each presenter unique and interesting. After weeks of practicing, I finally took the stage on Sunday, December 2nd. It was an incredible experience of which I was very proud to be a part.
Personally, emceeing this event was a powerful moment in my life. After almost a year of suffering with health issues, such as migraines and orthostatic intolerance, I never thought I would be able to do anything like TEDx again. Being able to get to the event, having full energy throughout the afternoon, and not suffering from a migraine afterwards were all huge accomplishments for me.
In addition to health issues, I have been a very shy person throughout my whole life. Although I faced some of my shyness issue when I presented at TEDx back in 2011, I never thought that I would be able to overcome my shyness even more as an emcee.
TEDxYouth gave me the opportunity to challenge both my fears and my health issues so that I could conquer the “impossible.” As I took a group picture with the presenters at the end of the day, I realized that for the first time in a long time, I was part of something much bigger than myself. Looking back at these last two events, I truly believe that I am a braver, stronger, and wiser person because of TEDxYouth.
TEDxYouth@TampaBay 2012 emcee, Matthew Temmer
TEDxYouth@TampaBay took place as part of TEDxYouthDay, TEDx’s worldwide celebration of youth innovation, invention, and creativity.
Instagram user shaffimk contributes to the TEDxYouthDay 2012, “Dream Big…Then Do It!” photo campaign by completing the sentence, “A dream of mine that I commit to making real is…”
To see more dreams shared from youth around the world this past November, visit the TEDxYouthDay website.
TEDxYouthDay Youth Reporter Katarzyna J. Biniek, on the live webcast of TEDxYouth@ISB in Belgrade:
Two days of exciting and passionate talks and discussions centered around youth across the globe – it can only happen on TEDxYouthDay.
This year, for the first time in my life, I actively participated in TEDxYouthDay as a youth reporter. It was an amazing adventure that enriched me as a person and motivated me to dare for more. I am glad that through my live reporting I could spread all of these great ideas and examples that TEDxYouthDay speakers shared with us.
For my TEDxYouthDay experience, I chose to follow TEDxYouth@ISB in Serbia, which was streamed live on the Internet. During the day, I listened to seven exciting talks addressing the central theme of the event: “From imagination to creation.” I learned that it is not always easy to fulfill your dreams, but it is definitely worth it to try, even though those around you might say that your dreams are impossible or crazy.
I cannot wait for next year’s TEDxYouthDay, because like many other young people I need inspiration and the push to be braver and to think big without restrictions.
