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).

Shaw Center for the Arts (Tentative)
100 Lafayette Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70811
United States

Abe Baggili

Professor of Computer Science and Cybersecurity at Louisiana State University and the founder of the BiT Lab (Baggili Truth Lab), Dr. Ibrahim “Abe” Baggili uncovers cyber vulnerabilities through cyber investigations and forensics of systems, AI, and Virtual and Augmented Reality. Alongside his students, his work has impacted more than a billion people worldwide, protecting them from ever-evolving cyber threats.

Fareed Dawan

Dr. Fareed Dawan, a tenured professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and Founder and CEO of In Aim Technologies Corporation, battles for real estate on the micro-level. Researching advanced manufacturing of multi-functional composite materials, Dr. Fareed is working to patent sustainable nano-technology to improve materials for the energy, aerospace, and personal health industries.

Jonathan Mayers

Jonathan “radbwa faroush” Mayers is a visual artist, independent curator, educator, and cultural activist who uses Kouri-Vini, the endangered Creole language of Louisiana, in both his writing and daily life. Working to preserve this heritage language, Jonathan founded Latannyèrizm, a form of Louisiana Creole art that melds visual art, language, and physical place, and co-founded Chinbo, Inc., a non-profit dedicated to the reclamation of Kouri-Vini.

Robin Palmer Blanche

Robin Palmer Blanche is a twelve-time published novelist and produced screenwriter. She uses her talent to communicate coupled with her life experiences dealing with death and grief to guide individuals through the emotional, psychological, and social processes of death. As an end-of-life doula, Robin strives to shift conversations of death away from fear and to precious and present moments.

Tracee Albert

Tracee Albert, whose first language is American Sign Language, was influenced to become an advocate after witnessing the everyday situations her two deaf parents face. Noticing the lack of representation and advocacy for the deaf and hard of hearing community firsthand, Tracee created "Feel Seen," a sanctuary that offers education, awareness, advocacy, and a safe space for the underserved populations yearning to be heard.