Theme: Amplify

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).

Westside Cultural Arts Center
760 10th St NW
Atlanta, Georgia, 30318
United States

Christopher Coleman

Life Coach, Motivational Speaker, Author & Confidence-Builder

Doctors diagnosed Christopher with cerebral palsy and told his family that this condition would prevent Christopher from ever moving, talking, or even thinking for himself. Since then, Christopher has gone on to become an author, certified life coach, professional speaker, and CEO. Christopher desires to use his disability to steer others towards living AN UNCONFINED LIFE.

Christopher Klaus

CEO of Kaneva

Christopher Klaus founded Internet Security Systems (ISS) which was acquired by IBM for over $1.2 billion. With his donation, Georgia Tech was able to build the Christopher W. Klaus Advanced Computing Building! He currently is a successful entrepreneur, delivering 3D virtual worlds as the founder and CEO of Kaneva.

Dr. Michael Littman

PhD, Computer Scientist, Educator, Machine-Learning Researcher

Dr. Micheal Littman is a computer science professor at Brown University, studying machine learning and working to engage broadly about applications and implications of artificial intelligence. As a creative science professor, he typically takes a lighthearted approach to science communication, using parody songs and humor to connect with the sense of playfulness that is essential to creative problem solving. Dr. Littman is co-director of Brown's Humanity Centered Robotics Initiative and a Fellow of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence and the Association for Computing Machinery.

Dr. Raj Pandya

M.D., Founder and President of the Atlanta Orthopedic Institute

Dr. Pandya is an orthopedic surgeon who is the Founder and President of the Atlanta Orthopedic Institute (AOI). He serves as the Medical Director and Consultant to global companies and healthcare ventures, and as Team Physician to professional, Olympic and collegiate athletic programs. With his vast amount of knowledge in orthopedic surgery, he has been developing new and innovative medical devices to continue the advancement in the surgical field. He also happens to be the Chairman of GT's favorite Twisted Taco!

Grayson Eady

Georgia Tech Student

Our very own, Georgia Tech student, Grayson Eady, has a strong passion for electrification within the community. He enjoys sharing his thoughts on the power of electrification as a climate solution and the ease with which we can electrify everything. More importantly, he also shares his progress and journey at his first attempt at a home-built EV.

Ross Mason

President of the Aurora Forge + Founder of Samaritan's Road International + Founder of High Impact Network of Responsible Innovators

Ross Mason is the President of the Aurora Forge, an early-stage accelerator in HealthTech and GovTech, the founder of Samaritan's Road International (sroadi.com), and created the High Impact Network of Responsible Innovators (HINRI) in 2004, a venture philanthropy that focuses on solving today's most difficult healthcare challenges. HINRI has two objectives: (1) to match the resource with the need while ministering to giver and recipient, with the focus on Christ, and (2) to make Atlanta the global leader in health innovation. On August 2, 2007, Ross broke his neck in a bicycle accident and was paralyzed from his collarbones down. Prior to his accident, Ross was actively involved in triathlons, wreck, cave, and ice diving, surfing, rock and ice climbing. He is now focused on bringing that same drive, passion, and spirit of adventure to serving others through the work of HINRI.

Sakshi Dubey

Software Engineer II at Honeywell

Sakshi founded the 'Pink Tech Decoded' foundation to support her cause of girl education and promote women to pursue a career in STEM and computing. She has presented her work in 16+ technical and social conferences. She has also represented in Model United Nations to support human rights. Sakshi is also an upcoming author of the book 'WISH - Win the Imposter Syndrome' to advocate self-confidence in early career professionals.

Shyla Talluri

Founder & CEO of PURE

PURE’s founder, strategist and voice, Shyla Talluri, is a thought leader. Diligent, determined, and decisive, Shyla was instrumental in bringing PURE - a non-profit organization bringing educational and livelihood opportunities closer to the economically disadvantaged children, at-risk youth and special populations - into existence and forming Team PURE.