TEDx Gary Returns with ‘Space and Expectation’ Theme on October 18

The popular TEDx series will host its eighth event, TEDx Gary, on October 18, 2023, at 6 p.m. in the Bergland Auditorium at Savannah Hall, located at Indiana University Northwest, 65 W. 33rd Ave. The theme for this year is “Space and Expectation,” featuring a lineup of speakers who will deliver engaging talks, each lasting no longer than 18 minutes.

Organized by married couple Jeffrey and McKenya Smith, TEDx Gary began in 2020 with the theme “Using What You Have to Get What You Want.” The event has gained significant traction, particularly last year when Dr. Ravi Iyer’s talk, “The Power of Intentional Focus,” became the most viewed TEDx talk of 2022, amassing over 2.4 million views.

This year’s roster includes a diverse range of speakers from various backgrounds. Notable participants are Paulina Johnson from Detroit, Dr. Akemi Bailey Haynie, Dr. Kenichi Haynie and Masayoshi Haynie from Chicago, as well as local attorneys Michael and Shelice Tolbert from Gary. Other speakers include Sandra Carr, Kristy Carreon from Crown Point, Kristine Szabo from Cannes, France, Crystal Melton from Gary, and Dr. Altovise Nicole Ferguson from Gary.

The talks will explore a variety of topics, including strategies for optimizing social media algorithms and creating safe spaces amid chaos. “The evening will be filled with ideas worth sharing, and we are excited to be back on the campus of Indiana University Northwest,” McKenya Dilworth Smith stated. She added, “We have people who have gone to the top of the corporate ladder in business and industry, as well as medical doctors and attorneys. Our lineup includes a mother who survived the Hiroshima attack—a truly interesting mix of speakers that encompasses creatives and artists.”

The event is not just a platform for ideas; it also aims to stimulate the local economy. “TEDx Gary this year will contribute to the local economy in Gary and the Region because some speakers are traveling from Indianapolis, Michigan, and even France to participate, stay at local Airbnbs, eat at our restaurants, and shop at small businesses here in the city,” Jeffrey Smith noted.

Since its inception, over 35 speakers have graced the TEDx Gary stage, championing innovation and creativity. The overarching goal of the event is to challenge, provoke, and advance the narrative of Gary. As McKenya Dilworth Smith articulated, “We’re doing our part to present a positive narrative of the city.”

Planning for future events is already underway, with an application process for potential TEDx Gary speakers opening in March and closing on May 16. Those interested in sharing their ideas can look forward to a straightforward application process.

TEDx Gary promises to be an evening filled with inspiration and thought-provoking discussions, reaffirming its commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and creativity in the community.