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).

Chatham High School
255 Lafayette Ave.
Chatham Township, New Jersey, 07928
United States

Amelia Willmann

Amelia Willmann is a graduating senior from Chatham High School. The inspiration for her Ted Talk was a semiotic analysis she wrote titled “Fast Fashion Redefined,” which was awarded “Honorable Mention” by the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. In her free time, Amelia enjoys going to the beach, concerts, thrift stores, and exploring new places. She will continue her passion for travel as she ventures to Madrid for her first semester of college at Northeastern University.

Andrew Mortensen

Andrew Mortensen is a graduate student at The University of Texas and Chatham High School alum. Before returning to school, he cycled the length of the PanAmerican highway in support of an LGBTQ+ nonprofit. Off the bike, you can find him running, hiking, taking portrait photos (including many of the family cat, Angie), and sometimes traveling.

Bella Bickenbach

Isabella Bickenbach is currently a sophomore at Chatham High School and is very excited to give her talk about learning to let go. One of her passions is ice skating and this year took part in the 2022 Championship Series in ice dance. She enjoys playing piano and is in the Honors Music Program as an accompanist for concert choir. She also enjoys reading and writing and was in this year's Poetry Festival. In her free time she likes to do yoga, sew, and play with her dog Tiffany.

Halsey Larsen

Halsey Larsen is a graduating senior and will be attending Elon University to study cinema and television arts with a minor in creative writing. She was on the swim team all four years of high school and participated in many clubs. When not at school, she loves hanging out with friends, going to the beach, writing, traveling, and just having a good time.

Julia Erickson

Julia Erickson is the owner of The jolie Cafe. Jolie means pretty in French, and encapsulates her mission to help everyone that crosses her path realize their most beautiful self and live a truly beautiful life through plant based foods and sustainable wellness practices. Julia holds degrees from Harvard, Columbia, and the French Culinary Institute. She has seven children, is a recreational exerciser and has over 300 antique roses.

Lily Boland

Lily Boland is a current junior at Chatham High School. She is a constant advocate for inclusivity and kindness in all aspects of her life. She is a Links leader at Chatham High School, and also helps lead the Yearbook and Dance Club there too. She loves to listen to music, dance, sew, be crafty, and learn new things.

Skate Lapus

Skate (Sarah Kate) Lapus is currently a junior at Chatham High School. She loves to play field hockey with her high school team. When not on the field, she enjoys spending time outside including hiking, long walks with friends, and anything in the water. She is happiest swimming, paddle boarding, and spending time at the beach.