RECAP: 2024 Conference was a work of art!
Sunny skies, fresh ideas and friendly smiles filled the air at the University of Texas on March 23— it was a great day for TEDxUTAustin’s 2024 conference, Mosaic!
Our organization could not be more proud of our seventh annual conference, which boasted ten incredible speakers, two show-stopping performances, an interactive startup showcase and engaging art exhibition.
Our morning began with a photobooth, police drones, counter-top terrariums and more innovative small businesses. Attendees were immediately immersed in the technological hub that is Austin as soon as they checked in, and we are certain the great start set the tone for the rest of the day!
Once guests filled the Hogg Memorial Auditorium, Alamo Drafthouse Chief of Staff and Strategy Heather Morgan kicked off our series of talks with a new perspective on loneliness. Dr. Richard Reddick and bat conservationist Merlin Tuttle followed, filling the morning sessions with emphasis on human connection and conflict resolution.
Melody Afkami took an unconventional approach to her talk and got the audience moving. We were excited to foster such an interactive, safe and fun community. Our audience is what makes TEDx such a valuable experience.
Melody Afkami, founder of Melody DanceFit, leads the audience in a fun dance exercise.
Kareem El-Gayesh, founder and owner of KG BBQ, delivered a moving talk about pursuing passion, earning a standing ovation and creating a beloved moment for everyone in attendance!
To end our morning session, UT Austin’s very own Roustabouts Dance Team showed off their talents with an electrifying performance!
Our afternoon was filled with inspiration, beginning with Caroline Rose and Alexis Kashar, who both provided unique insight on overcoming challenges and leaning on community during trials. Voices of Afrika, a UT-based acapella group, showcased their talents in our second performance of the day, and it was truly magical!
Nahid Siamdoust, Bavu Blakes and P-Terry’s cofounder Kathy Terry each drew upon their personal experiences to encourage us to break stereotypes and push the boundaries of what community can do for the world.
After the talks, we were happy to find so many attendees checking out our art exhibit, featuring pieces from UT College of Fine Arts students! We’re glad they took the time to meet speakers and one another.
There are no words to express how grateful we are for everyone involved in this year’s TEDxUTAustin conference. We are already planning for 2025, and hope to share ideas that change everything!
From all of us, thank you!
Stay connecTED,
TEDxUTAustin, 2024
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