Theme: Beyond Objectification into Empathy

On March 18 2013, the very first TEDxGabriolaIsland took place at The Haven, Gabriola Island. Although many thousand TEDx events are held around the globe every year, TEDxGabriolaIsland is one of very few representing a small, rural island community.

One hundred attendees from Gabriola Island and further afield came together for an in-depth exploration of empathy, unity and diversity. TEDxGabriolaIsland was sold out, and the lucky attendees won their places in a ticket draw, as the demand for tickets was much higher than the availability.

The day began with a welcome by video from Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo. Speakers included Mary Gordon, internationally renowned creator of the Roots of Empathy schools program and broadcaster Shelagh Rogers. Musicians Victor Wooten and Mike Stevens also spoke and were joined by performance artist Megan Daalder (creator of the Mirrorbox). Also presenting was Gabriola artist Sheila Norgate, community activist Shelagh Huston and author and lecturer Jock McKeen. Two grade 11 students from Nanaimo District Secondary School, Rachel Fritz and Jenna Mirau, completed the speaker line up.

Each speaker presented their own unique perspective on the topic; the TED videos enabled the audience to hear from the likes of Karen Armstrong, Daniel Goleman and Shane Koyczan. It was an amazing day full of learning, inspiration and wonder and, of course, 'ideas worth sharing'.

It was such a success, the organizers hope that it can become an annual event.

For further information contact Rachel Davey, TEDxGabriolaIsland organizer by email (rachel@haven.ca) or phone (1 877 247 9238 x 235).

The Haven
240 Davis Road
Gabriola Island, British Columbia, V0R 1X1
Canada