Theme: Evolve

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).

Montezuma Hall
5500 Campanile Drive San Diego, California
Aztec Student Union, Second Floor
San Diego, California, 92182
United States

Isabel Lurie

Student

Isabel Lurie is an aspiring writer, storyteller and current student of International Business at San Diego State University, passionate about exploring the intersection of identity, consciousness, and personal narrative. She has immersed herself in the work of great thinkers, explored complex philosophical ideas, and applied these insights in her own life. In her TED Talk, Isabel will focus on empowerment and change—how recognizing patterns in life can help us let go of rigid identities and create new possibilities. Her goal is to inspire others to embrace the playful, ever-changing nature of life, let go of societal expectations, and rewrite their own stories. Through her personal insights, Isabel aims to encourage people to live authentically and in alignment with their true selves.

Joshua David

Content Creator

Joshua David is a dynamic host and content creator known for his engaging platforms, "Thinking Out Loud Thursday" on Instagram and the "Tuesdays with Josh" podcast. With a deep passion for fostering meaningful conversations and self-realization, Joshua explores topics that inspire, challenge, and empower his audience. His ability to connect with diverse perspectives and universal themes we can all connect to. This makes him a sought-after voice for the collective consciousness. Through his work, he hopes to encourage listeners to think critically and embrace their authentic selves, creating a space for growth, grace, and reflection.

Rachael Stewart Stewart

Educator

Dr. Rachael Stewart is a Kenyan born, Cali raised leader, educator, author, and speaker committed to empowering and motivating individuals on their leadership paths. With nearly 20 years of experience in higher education, leadership, and professional development, she holds a doctorate in educational leadership from SDSU and currently works in the Division of Student Affairs and Campus Diversity. Her research and service concentrate on organizational change, policies, and practices within educational systems, particularly how these frameworks foster student success through engagement, retention, and post-graduate achievements. Dr. Stewart’s extensive personal and professional leadership development expertise enables her to provide coaching that supports leaders at all levels, promoting individual growth and organizational success. She is passionate about leadership development, empowering women, and advocating for equity-driven leadership in educational and corporate settings.

Sara Roldan

Therapist

Dr. Sara Roldan is a Guatemalan-born therapist, educator, author, and speaker who is dedicated to empowering individuals to transform their lives by reclaiming their stories. With over 20 years of advocacy for inclusion and a decade of clinical expertise, Dr. Roldan merges her cultural heritage, modern therapeutic techniques, and the power of fandom culture to create innovative and accessible pathways to healing. Her passion is to help people feel empowered through their own narratives, encouraging them to see themselves as the heroes of their journeys. Her own experiences—shaped by her background in performing arts, education, and her journey as an immigrant—drive her commitment to making others feel seen, heard, and capable of thriving. Her work is a powerful call to transformation, inspiring individuals to embrace their power, overcome adversity, and become the heroes of their own stories.

Stefanie Bales

Artist

Stefanie Bales is an award-winning artist, muralist, and boutique gallery owner. She was a professor of Art & Design for over a decade before launching her creative brand and opening the Stefanie Bales Fine Art Gallery in 2018, which has been voted “Best Gallery” in San Diego for 4 years running. Bales’s portfolio includes works for esteemed clients in both public and private sectors, including Balboa Park, Belmont Park, Estancia La Jolla Hotel, the City of San Diego, Ansun Biopharma, and Longfellow Real Estate. She was named “Best Artist” in San Diego through public vote and serves as a founding board member of the San Diego Chapter of Soho House. Stefanie is a devoted mother to her two young boys, Weston And Rowan, whom she considers her greatest works of art.In her talk, The Things They Don’t Teach You in Art School, Stefanie shares her insights on The Business of Art, exploring the artist’s role as an entrepreneur and challenging the outdated stereotype of the artist “sellout”.

Vanessa Eslava

Civil Engineer

Vanessa works as a civil engineer in the transportation industry. She was influenced to study engineering at the end of her senior year in high school. She started at Palomar Community College before she transferred to SDSU, then at the end of 2015. Since being in the industry, she was awarded the 2022 ASCE New Faces of Civil Engineering and the 2023 Top 50 of Women in Engineering in the San Diego Business Journal. In her talk, she shares her journey through struggles and failures. How adjusting your mindset on failure can lead you to achieve your goals.