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).

Clarkston Senior High School
6093 Flemings Lake Rd
Clarkston, Michigan, 48346
United States

Christopher Chen

Christopher Chen is currently a senior at Troy High School. He is fascinated by and feels responsible for the environment, and is deeply involved in environmental conservation and stewardship—seeking to understand the chemistry behind it. Inside of school, he is heavily involved with the Environmental Activists, National Honor Society, The Future Problem Solving Program, and in 2013, founded Troy High’s American Chemical Society-Sponsored Chemistry Club. Outside of school, Christopher takes leadership roles in two environmental organizations, and has conducted research at Oakland University and the University of Michigan. He also enjoys playing as part of Troy High’s Varsity Tennis team, and plays the viola in the symphony orchestra. Through leadership in public service, or scientific research in any field, Christopher hopes to create global, community change that will positively impact people’s lives.

Colin Hendrickson

Colin Hendrickson is a young serial entrepreneur, and founder of A Company Of Minors L.L.C., from Spring Lake High School. He is an active member in Business Professionals of America, Boy Scouts of America, D.E.C.A. and Toastmasters. In his free time Colin enjoys filmmaking and skiing with his younger brother. Starting in the 4th grade selling ice cream treats to his peers, to selling his first company by the age of 14, he is determined to help shape today’s society by inspiring other young entrepreneurs.

Emma Modock

Emma Modock is a junior at Lake Orion High School. She is involved in the Leadership Development Workshop and Teacher Cadet Programs at her school. Emma has been a swimmer on the Lake Orion varsity girls swim and dive team for the past three years now. She is involved in many after-school clubs and activities including Students Offering Support, Special Olympics Swimming, and is currently one of the student advisors for the Friend to Friend club. Last year at the MASC/MAHS student leadership conference, Emma was one of the students awarded with the unsung hero award. Emma loves to hang out with her friends and family, and enjoys giving back to her community anyway she can.

Leah Warren

Leah Warren is a junior at Seaholm High School. As an honors student, she is also a captain of the school’s forensics team and competes nationally. She also runs cross country and track, and is a proud member of the school’s marching and symphony bands. In 2009, Leah was motivated by her love of civics and history to co-create a new American holiday, Patriot Week, with her dad.

Liam Fries

Liam Fries is a senior at Clarkston Highschool. Liam is planning to go to Kalamazoo College next year, expressing an interest in Public Health. Liam is enrolled in all honors core classes as well as a thespian in drama club, a singer in a local a cappella group, Detroit Voice, a varsity mountain biker and involved in many other extracurriculars. He professes a deep interest in natural science, but loves music and comedy passionately, as is reflected in his talk.

Maria Puertas

Maria is a senior at Clarkston High School. During the day, Maria leads both poetry and art clubs. She has participated in multiple poetry slams throughout the years and would consider herself an advocate for the arts. Outside of school, Maria is a senior company member of Michigan Ballet Theatre and has performed in The Nutcracker and The Sleeping Beauty, as well as attended various competitions and summer intensive programs across the United States. Maria is a certified yoga instructor, teaching every week at a yoga studio in Clarkston, as well as at her school. She is passionate about anything health or nutrition related. In the coming year, Maria will be attending New York University, with plans to study Journalism and International Relations.

Revelle Gappy

Revelle Gappy is a senior at Troy Athens High School. She is President at her school’s Model United Nations team and actively participates in the role of youth diplomacy. Revelle is going to Wayne State University next year and plans on pursuing a life in medicine.

Zoha Bharwani

Over the course of her 17 year-life, Zoha has lived in 11 cities and 4 countries. The people that she has encountered have shaped her perspective and allowed her to develop and maintain her love for theater, music, nature, and serving the communities around her. In her free time, Zoha enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading mystery novels, and composing music. Someday she hopes to have a career in International Development to help ensure that everyone has access to the opportunities she's been so fortunate to have.