Theme: Gratitude

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

James E. West Alumni Center
325 Westwodd Plz
Los Angeles, California, 90095
United States

Isadora Dantas

Isadora is an expert in being happy. With both a masters in Design & Technology from Parsons and a soon-to-be-completed MBA from UCLA Anderson, she has been through a wide set of careers, but her true talent lies on spreading joy among others. Originally from Brazil, she moved to the US in 2009 and found in the streets of NYC the best stage to perform urban interventions and solve daily problems with kindness. Over the years she was able to inspire people from more than 18 countries to join her on the task of making the world a happier place.

Krystal Walden

Krystal Walden is the Founder/CEO of KRYSTAL SPA®, a health and fitness spa devoted to the healing arts. Her remarkable commerce into entrepreneurship resulted from a career boomerang. From the age of 8, Krystal became an accomplished 100 and 200 meter runner. Her execution and excellence in academics and athletics earned her scholarships to the University of California (UCLA), where Krystal earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Sociology with an emphasis in Psychology. Krystal Walden brings to the health and fitness spa, 25+ years of experience as a competitive athlete; offering her unique fusion of athletic gifts and accreditations. With the kind of strength, flexibility, balance and compassions that Krystal possesses there is no doubt that she will meet her goals, to enhance the global image of how to live a stronger, healthier, and balanced lifestyle.

Megan Kissinger

Megan Kissinger is the assistant vice chancellor for UCLA College Development. As the chief fundraiser for the largest academic unit in California, she oversees a seven-year fundraising goal of $400 million to support the highest academic priorities of the University—faculty research, and graduate and undergraduate students. Working closely with five deans and development directors for five divisions, Megan leads the conceptualization and implementation of long-term fundraising strategies. She has extensive experience cultivating and soliciting major gifts and works to ensure the success of all philanthropy for the benefit of donors and the College. Megan also oversees the College’s stewardship program, alumni engagement and communications. She is committed to maximizing the impact of philanthropy in a public research institution—working to ensure tomorrow’s discoveries and to level the playing field for the best and brightest, regardless of economic background. Megan has more than 20 years of fundraising experience, beginning at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, followed by the Getty Museum and the Hammer Museum. She received her bachelor’s degree in Art History from UCLA.