Theme: Rise

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).

Florida Blue Conference Center
4800 Deerwood Campus Parkway
Jacksonville, Florida, 32246
United States

Aidan Chau

Aidan is a high school junior. Formerly the principal clarinetist at the World Youth Symphony Orchestra, Aidan is also the founder and CEO of Artfully Green, a nonprofit organization that raises awareness for climate change through art and conducts climate change research. Aidan sees an opportunity for humanity to take a step in the right direction against climate change.

Jabrea Ali

Jabrea is a high school senior. She also is the President of her school’s Black Student Caucus, a member of the National Honor Society and Golden Eagle (School) Ambassador. Jabrea also participates in the Student Government Association as a 12th-grade Representative. Outside of school, she plays for the United Soccer Alliance, a team in the United States Soccer Federation Developmental Academy. After high school, she plans to attend Howard University and major in Psychology, and then to pursue a Ph.D. in that field.

Jessica Malosh

Jessica is a high school sophomore. She is on her school’s Cross Country and Track teams and is a member of the Spanish Honor society. Jessica’s academic interests are diverse: she enjoys psychology, chemistry, and journalism. Through her involvement in Youth Leadership Jacksonville, she discovered an interest in public policy and inspiration to make positive environmental and social changes in her community. She volunteers at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens and Willow Branch Library. She also has created and edited a yearbook to raise funds for the Florida Ballet, where she danced prior to becoming a runner.

Mario Barrozo

Mario is a high school junior and an aspiring doctor. He is active in and holds leadership roles in numerous school clubs, including Key Club, Chief Executive Student Ambassador, Great Decisions Club, and National Spanish Honor Society. Additionally, Mario is an alumnus of Youth Leadership Jacksonville, a program that fosters connections with local leaders and promotes leadership skills in students across Northeast Florida. Mario has completed over 400 hours of community service with various Jacksonville organizations.

Raines Highschool Band

The Sound of Experience (S.O.E.) is the most visible of the Raines High School Bands, providing the color and excitement of Viking Athletics and enrichment of high school life.

Winston Seabrooks

Winston is a high school junior. He is the President of his class and volunteers in his community. He plans to attend college at Florida A&M University and is interested in studying law.

Zariah Swanigan

Zariah is a high school senior. She is co-vice president of her school’s Tea and Poetry club and enjoys writing poetry in her free time. Although she is an identical twin, Zariah likes to embrace her unique qualities and is fascinated by different languages, societies, and cultures. After graduation, she plans to attend college as a double-major in Criminology and Musical Theatre.