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).

Roxbury Community College
1234 Columbus Avenue
Media Arts Center
Roxbury, Massachusetts, 02119
United States

Dr. De'Shawn Washington

Teacher

Dr. De'Shawn Washington is the 2024 Massachusetts Teacher of the Year—the first Black male in state history to receive this honor—and the 2025 Massachusetts Representative for the National Education Association’s Teacher Excellence Award. As an elementary school teacher, Dr. Washington focuses on empowering his students to use reading as a vessel to be advocates and agents of change in their communities and beyond. A passionate educator, scholar, and speaker, Dr. Washington champions equity-centered literacy practices that affirm identity, build critical consciousness and inspire social action. His leadership spans local and national platforms, including curriculum development, policy advocacy, and professional learning for educators committed to justice and liberation in education.

Dr. Malcolm Andrews, Jr.

Dr. Malcolm Andrews, Jr. has 16 years of experience in urban education and holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Lesley University. Dr. Andrews currently serves as a Networker for the Telescope Network and as an Instructional Coach at Boston Day and Evening Academy (BDEA). Prior to becoming a Networker, Malcolm worked for two years as an Instructional Coach at TechBoston Academy (TBA), following a decade as an ELA and History teacher for students in a substantially-separate setting in the Crossroads L/AB cluster at TBA. Malcolm’s work toward increasing equity for marginalized students and supporting educators of color was awarded with the “A Beautiful Resistance Award for Excellence in Teaching and Leadership.

Jay Vilar

Jay Vilar is a dedicated community leader and advocate for economic justice, working to create opportunities for those impacted by systemic barriers. As the Boston Director of The Fountain Fund, he is spearheading efforts to provide economic advancement to formerly incarcerated individuals. A proud resident of Roxbury, Jay is the son of immigrant parents and comes from a mixed Afro-Latino and Pacific Islander heritage. His career spans nonprofit leadership, social entrepreneurship, and advocacy, reflecting his deep commitment to equity and empowerment. Previously, Jay served as Program Director at Haley House, and beyond his professional work, he serves on the boards of Bikes Not Bombs and the steering committee for Clean Slate Massachusetts. Jay is also an avid gardener and loves to cook and host dinner parties, using food as a way to bring new friends together and build community.

Naeemah Elias

From a once-shy introvert to an award-winning actress and corporate leader, Naeemah Elias knows firsthand the power of embracing the outsider perspective to drive impact. Navigating corporate life and motherhood with three free-range teenagers, she blends resilience, adaptability, and bold living. Naeemah founded Elias Presence to help professionals turn “no” into “yes,” lead with influence, and leave a leadership legacy. With a BA in Psychology from Harvard and 13 years at State Street, she inspires others to harness their unique strengths, build meaningful relationships, and create change.

Shana Feggins

Shana’s expertise spans diverse fields, including diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, human resources, EEO/employment law, brand strategy, strategic partnerships and communications, AI and the Future of Work, and mindfulness. Her educational background is equally diverse, with a BA in political science and women’s studies, a master's degree in strategic public relations from George Washington University, an MBA from Northeastern University, and a range of professional certifications, including mental health first aid, mindfulness stress reduction (MSBR), several diversity, equity, and inclusion certificates, and SHRM certification. She is also a registered yoga teacher. “My love language is bringing other women with me as I rise. There is room for all of us at the top.”