Theme: The Power of Being a Teenager

TED is a nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks (18 minutes or less). TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design converged, and today covers almost all topics — from science to business to global issues — in more than 100 languages.

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TED has created a program called TEDx. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events. At our event, TEDxYouth@TheFunkZone, local teenage speakers will spark deep discussion about business, STEM, music, and more. Our event will cater to around 100 attendees and will be situated in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone.

The Narrative Loft
1 N Calle Cesar Chavez #240
Santa Barbara, California, 93103
United States

Jessica Lindsey

Jessica Lindsey is a senior in San Marcos High School's Entrepreneurship Academy. She used her connections from the academy to develop and run a program providing workshops and field trips to foster youth called Building Opportunities for Achievement (BOA). Jessica's work behind BOA led her to be awarded the 2015 Rising Star of The Year Award from the National Association of Women Business Owners. Last year, Jessica spoke at Los Angeles 2015 Optimist International Oratorical, and was awarded second place. In her free time Jessica enjoys plein air painting is inspired by fauve and impressionistic works.

Kendrick Chavez

19-year-old Kendrick Chavez is the creator of Empower Workouts, a motivational fitness program led by other teenagers. His passion is to inspire others to go after their dreams and get in the best shape possible at any age. Kendrick is an actor, model, fitness competitor and 30x gold medalist martial-artist.

Nik Harger

Nik Harger is a senior in Santa Barbara High’s Multimedia Arts & Design Academy. He is a music producer, composer, graphic designer, and multi-instrumentalist. Nik has done sound design for an iPhone application, interned for a film composer, and works as a typographer. He’s opened up for bands such as Iration and Rebelution, and mentors young musicians at the Rockshop Academy.