TEDx Gary Returns with Inspiring Speakers and Ideas

The eighth edition of TEDx Gary is set to take place on October 18, 2023, at 6 p.m. in the Bergland Auditorium, located within Savannah Hall at Indiana University Northwest. This local offshoot of the internationally recognized TEDx series will showcase a diverse lineup of speakers who will explore the theme “Space and Expectation” through brief talks, each lasting no longer than 18 minutes.

Organized by married couple Jeffrey and McKenya Smith, TEDx Gary started in 2020 with the theme “Using What You Have to Get What You Want.” The series gained significant traction last year, particularly with Dr. Ravi Iyer‘s talk, “The Power of Intentional Focus,” which became the most watched TEDx talk of 2022, amassing over 2.4 million views.

Engaging Speakers and Diverse Topics

This year’s lineup features speakers from various backgrounds, including Paulina Johnson from Detroit, Dr. Akemi Bailey Haynie, Dr. Kenichi Haynie, and Masayoshi Haynie from Chicago, as well as attorneys Michael and Shelice Tolbert from Gary. Other notable speakers include Sandra Carr from Gary, Kristy Carreon from Crown Point, Kristine Szabo from Cannes, France, Crystal Melton from Gary, Robert Ordway from Indianapolis, and Dr. Altovise Nicole Ferguson from Gary.

The talks will cover an array of subjects, such as optimizing social media algorithms and creating safe spaces amid chaos. “The evening will be filled with ideas worth sharing, and we are excited to be back on the campus of Indiana University Northwest,” said McKenya Dilworth Smith. She highlighted the impressive backgrounds of the speakers, noting the mix of professionals, including corporate leaders, medical doctors, attorneys, and even a survivor of the Hiroshima attack.

Economic Impact and Future Plans

Jeffrey Smith emphasized the event’s potential economic impact on Gary and the surrounding region. He noted that some speakers are traveling from locations like Indianapolis, Michigan, and France, which will encourage them to stay in local accommodations, dine at local restaurants, and shop at small businesses in the city.

Over the years, TEDx Gary has provided a platform for more than 35 speakers, all dedicated to promoting innovation and creativity. “Our goal is to challenge, provoke, and move Gary forward,” McKenya Dilworth Smith stated. “We’re doing our part to present a positive narrative of the city.”

Looking ahead, TEDx Gary is already in the planning stages for future events. “For those interested in becoming TEDx Gary speakers, we have a straightforward application process that typically opens in March and closes on May 16,” McKenya Smith added.

This year’s event promises to be an enlightening experience, showcasing the power of ideas and the strength of community engagement.