Ideas worth spreading

Why joy is a state of mind

1,024,619 views | Angélique Kidjo and Femi Oke • TEDWomen Presents

With infectious energy, singer-songwriter Angélique Kidjo ties together the threads of her legendary career as a creative force and global activist. In conversation with journalist Femi Oke, she discusses how joy powers her music (and sings an incredible impromptu song), details her work spreading educational opportunities to women and girls across Africa and shares her belief that everybody has the power to tap into their potential.

With infectious energy, singer-songwriter Angélique Kidjo ties together the threads of her legendary career as a creative force and global activist. In conversation with journalist Femi Oke, she discusses how joy powers her music (and sings an incredible impromptu song), details her work spreading educational opportunities to women and girls across Africa and shares her belief that everybody has the power to tap into their potential.

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Learn more about Angélique Kidjo's charitable foundation, Batonga, dedicated to supporting the education of young African girls.

About the speakers

Angélique Kidjo

Angélique Kidjo

Singer-songwriter

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Angélique Kidjo is a creative force noted for her diverse musical influences and global activism.

Femi Oke

Broadcaster, journalist

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Femi Oke is an international journalist, writer and moderator.

This talk was presented at an official TED conference. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Learn more about Angélique Kidjo's charitable foundation, Batonga, dedicated to supporting the education of young African girls.