Sri Lanka

Dr. Asha de Vos is an internationally acclaimed Sri Lankan marine biologist, ocean educator, and pioneer of long-term blue whale research in the Northern Indian Ocean. She is known for her work in marine conservation and equity advocacy. Dr. de Vos holds degrees from prestigious universities and founded Oceanswell, Sri Lanka's first marine conservation research and education organization. Her achievements have been recognized globally, and she has been featured by prominent media outlets. Additionally, she has received numerous awards for her contributions to field biology and marine conservation. // Marine biologist. Ocean educator. Founder/Executive Director, Oceanswell. National Geographic Emerging Explorer. Pew Fellow in Marine conservation. TED senior fellow. World Economic Forum Young Global Leader. Adjunct Research Fellow, The Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia. BBC 100 2018 (most inspirational and influential women in the world); LMD Sri Lankan of the Year 2018. // Channel 7 documentaryhttp://bitly.com/SMFUE7The New York Timeshttp://bit.ly/WRVELhCNN interview and opinion piecehttp://bit.ly/SiTVvO // Asha de Vos is a marine biologist and ocean educator with a strong focus on marine conservation. As the Founder and Executive Director of Oceanswell, she has made significant contributions to the field and has been recognized as a National Geographic Emerging Explorer and a Pew Fellow in Marine Conservation. With a TED senior fellowship and being a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, Asha is actively involved in shaping conversations around ocean conservation and sustainability. Her work has been featured in various prestigious platforms such as BBC 100, The New York Times, CNN, and she was named LMD Sri Lankan of the Year in 2018. // Dr. Asha de Vos is a distinguished marine biologist and ocean educator renowned for her groundbreaking research on blue whales in the Northern Indian Ocean. As the Founder and Executive Director of Oceanswell, Sri Lanka's premier marine conservation organization, she has spearheaded efforts in marine conservation and equity advocacy. Dr. de Vos's work has garnered international acclaim, leading to her recognition as a National Geographic Emerging Explorer and a Pew Fellow in Marine Conservation. With a TED senior fellowship and a role as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, she actively shapes global dialogues on ocean conservation and sustainability. Her contributions have been featured in esteemed media outlets like BBC 100 and The New York Times, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the field of marine biology and conservation. // Blue whale scientist // I am a born, bred and proud Sri Lankan. I work to save a population of blue whales, that I call The Unorthodox Whales, in the waters of the northern Indian Ocean but I also try to inspire the next generation of ocean heroes. My work has been featured in The New York Times, CNN, BBC, Channel 7 Australia, National Geographic online and in many newspapers around the world. When I am not working on my research, I can usually be found longingly hovering around, on or in the water, eating, running or telling stories about my other super-power which involves attracting weirdos... // I am a marine biologist currently working with blue whales in the Northern Indian Ocean.I am trying to stop them getting hit and killed by large container ships.For this I do science, outreach and push for policy changes and also look for innovative tools that can help solve conservation problems of this nature. I am also an advocate of contextualising conservation, particularly in the marine realm. Making sure people know why we need to protect the oceans and how healthy oceans means healthy us. I work with the media and do public talks to create this awareness and because I believe, the more people know, the more they care and the more responsible they feel to do something. Check www.ashadevos.com to learn more about my work! // Whales have a surprising and important job, says marine biologist Asha de Vos: these massive creatures are ecosystem engineers, keeping the oceans healthy and stable by ... well, by pooping, for a start. Learn from de Vos, a TED Fellow, about the undervalued work that whales do to help maintain the stability and health of our seas -- and our planet. // Dr. Asha de Vos is a distinguished marine biologist and ocean educator renowned for her groundbreaking research on blue whales in the Northern Indian Ocean. As the Founder and Executive Director of Oceanswell, Sri Lanka's premier marine conservation organization, she has spearheaded efforts in marine conservation and equity advocacy. Dr. de Vos's work has garnered international acclaim, leading to her recognition as a National Geographic Emerging Explorer and a Pew Fellow in Marine Conservation. With a TED senior fellowship and a role as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, she actively shapes global dialogues on ocean conservation and sustainability. Her contributions have been featured in esteemed media outlets like BBC 100 and The New York Times, solidifying her position as a leading figure in the field of marine biology and conservation. // Blue whale scientist // marine megafauna, water, education, forest, blue whales, biodiversity, marine biology and oceanography, buildings, water quality, coastal, social equity, equity, geospatial analysis, research, fishing, corporate social responsibility, educator,, climate, environmental education, sustainable development , environmental policy and advocacy, marine biology, natural resources, policy, environmental management, whale photographer, resource management, aquatic, women, marine mammals, forestry, wildlife, oceans, ocean justice, positivity, building science, environmental consciousness, marine conservation, deep sea water, advocacy, natural resource management, environmental impact, conservation, nature, science, remote-sensing, oceanography, communication, deep sea exploration, justice, ecology, marine ecology, capacity building // Sri Lanka|Colombo|Western Province

Sri Lanka|Colombo|Western Province

United States

Paul Rucker is a multimedia visual artist, composer, and musician known for integrating live performance, original musical compositions, and visual art installations. His work focuses on illuminating the legacy of enslavement in America and its connection to current socio-political issues. Rucker has received numerous grants, awards, and residencies for his work in visual art and music. He is recognized for his innovative approach to art making, which involves exploring community impacts, human rights issues, historical research, and human emotions. Additionally, Rucker holds various fellowships and teaching positions, including being an Assistant Professor at Virginia Commonwealth University. // Paul Rucker is a visual artist, composer, and musician known for his work that combines various media to explore community impacts, human rights issues, historical research, and human emotions. His current focus is on the prison-industrial complex and the connection between incarceration and slavery. Rucker has exhibited his work nationally, including in educational institutions and prisons, and has collaborated with organizations to address mass incarceration. He holds prestigious fellowships and is currently an Assistant Professor and Curator for Creative Collaboration at VCUarts, Virginia Commonwealth University. // Bring attention to false narratives in history and people left out of the story. Address coordinated exclusion. // Paul Rucker is a multimedia visual artist, composer, and musician whose work delves into the intersections of art, history, and social justice. He is recognized for his innovative approach in integrating live performance, original musical compositions, and visual art installations to shed light on the legacy of enslavement in America and its contemporary socio-political implications. Rucker's artistry extends to exploring community impacts, human rights issues, historical research, and human emotions, with a particular focus on the prison-industrial complex and the ties between incarceration and slavery. Through his exhibitions, collaborations with organizations, and teaching positions at Virginia Commonwealth University, Rucker actively engages in challenging false historical narratives and advocating for marginalized voices in society. // Visual artist + cellist // Paul Rucker is a multimedia visual artist, composer, and musician. His practice often integrates live performance, original musical compositions, and visual art installation. For nearly two decades, Rucker has used his own brand of art making as a social practice, which illuminates the legacy of enslavement in America and its relationship to the current socio-political moment. His work is the product of a rich interactive process, through which he investigates community impacts, human rights issues, historical research, and basic human emotions. Rucker has received numerous grants, awards and residencies for visual art and music. He is a 2012 Creative Capital Grantee in visual art as well as a 2014, 2018, 2019 MAP (Multi-Arts Production) Fund Grantee for performance. In 2015 he received a prestigious Joan Mitchell Painters & Sculptors Grant as well as the Mary Sawyer Baker Award. In 2016 Paul received the Rauschenberg Artist as Activist fellowship and the Smithsonian Artist Research Fellowship, for which he is the first artist in residence at the new National Museum of African American Culture. Residencies include MacDowell Colony, Blue Mountain Center, Ucross Foundation, Art OMI, Banff Centre, Pilchuck Glass School, Rauschenberg Residency, Joan Mitchell Residency, Loghave, Montalvo, Hermitage, Hemera Artist Retreat, Air Serembe, Creative Alliance and the Rockefeller Foundation Study Center in Bellagio, Italy. He will be a Master Teacher at the Atlantic Center for the Arts in 2021. In 2013-2015, he was the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation Artist in Residence and Research Fellow at the Maryland Institute College of Art. He was awarded a 2017 John Simon Guggenheim Fellowship, a 2018 TED Fellowship, a 2020 TED Senior Fellowship and the 2018 Arts Innovator Award from the Dale and Leslie Chihuly Foundation and Artist Trust. His most recent award is a 2020 Art for Justice Fund Fellowship. Rucker is an iCubed Arts Research Fellow and Assistant Professor at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia and Curator for Creative Collaboration for VCUarts. // Visual artist, cellist and TED Fellow Paul Rucker performs a disarming rendition of "Criminalization of Survival," a piece he created to explore the fragile journey of life in light of the brutality of the immigration crisis. // Multidisciplinary artist and TED Fellow Paul Rucker has developed his own style of cello; he puts chopsticks between his strings, uses the instrument as a drum and experiments with electronics like loop pedals. Moving between reflective storytelling and performance, Rucker shares his inspiration -- and definitely doesn't play the same old Bach. // Multidisciplinary artist and TED Fellow Paul Rucker is unstitching the legacy of systemic racism in the United States. A collector of artifacts connected to the history of slavery -- from branding irons and shackles to postcards depicting lynchings -- Rucker couldn't find an undamaged Ku Klux Klan robe for his collection, so he began making his own. The result: striking garments in non-traditional fabrics like kente cloth, camouflage and silk that confront the normalization of systemic racism in the US. "If we as a people collectively look at these objects and realize that they are part of our history, we can find a way to where they have no more power over us," Rucker says. (This talk contains graphic images.) // Paul Rucker is a multimedia visual artist, composer, and musician whose work delves into the intersections of art, history, and social justice. He is recognized for his innovative approach in integrating live performance, original musical compositions, and visual art installations to shed light on the legacy of enslavement in America and its contemporary socio-political implications. Rucker's artistry extends to exploring community impacts, human rights issues, historical research, and human emotions, with a particular focus on the prison-industrial complex and the ties between incarceration and slavery. Through his exhibitions, collaborations with organizations, and teaching positions at Virginia Commonwealth University, Rucker actively engages in challenging false historical narratives and advocating for marginalized voices in society. // Visual artist + cellist // research, glass, racism, activism, history, human rights, rights, education, immigration, address false narratives, teachers, justice, coordinated exclusion // Maryland|United Kingdom|USA|Richmond|England|Baltimore|Virginia

Maryland|United Kingdom|USA|Richmond|England|Baltimore|Virginia

United States

Sandia National Laboratories; Sias International University; Beijing Open University; GAE; Chaparral High School Temecula; Stanford University; Molding International & Engrg; Temeku Holdings; Ampaire; Beijing Language and Culture University; Northrop Grumman Corporation; Fuller School of Intercultural Studies

Ampaire is a pioneering company focused on advancing electric aviation technology. They are at the forefront of developing hybrid-electric aircraft to reduce emissions, noise, and operating costs in the aviation industry. Ampaire's innovative AmpDrive system has been successfully flown in multiple hybrid-electric aircraft, demonstrating significant fuel savings, maintenance reductions, and noise reduction. The company collaborates with notable institutions like NASA and ARPA-E to further develop and test their technology. Ampaire's vision includes revolutionizing air travel by providing cleaner, more affordable flights that are environmentally sustainable. // Sandia National Laboratories; Sias International University; Beijing Open University; GAE; Chaparral High School Temecula; Stanford University; Molding International & Engrg; Temeku Holdings; Ampaire; Beijing Language and Culture University; Northrop Grumman Corporation; Fuller School of Intercultural Studies // Electrifying aviation. Dramatically reducing the environmental impact of flying. // Cory Combs is a key figure at Ampaire, a leading company in the field of electric aviation technology. Ampaire is dedicated to advancing hybrid-electric aircraft to minimize emissions, noise pollution, and operational expenses within the aviation sector. Through the successful implementation of the innovative AmpDrive system in various hybrid-electric aircraft, significant improvements in fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and noise levels have been achieved. Collaborating with prestigious institutions such as NASA and ARPA-E, Ampaire is actively engaged in further refining and testing their cutting-edge technology. Cory Combs plays a crucial role in the company's mission to transform air travel by offering cleaner, more cost-effective flights that prioritize environmental sustainability. // Electric aviation entrepreneur // Cory is an electric aviation entrepreneur and investor passionate about sustainable, practical innovation. He is Co-founder and Executive Tech Fellow at Ampaire, a startup that is leading the charge in electrifying aviation. Ampaire is the convergence of Cory's work designing X-planes, EVs, and clean technology. Cory was named a 2019 Emerson Collective Dial Fellow, 2021 ICAS Aerospace Innovation Prize Awardee, and has received global recognition for his pioneering work in electric aircraft. // If you're a frequent flier, you're also a major polluter. What if there was a way to travel the world with less impact on the environment? In this quick, exciting talk, aviation entrepreneur and TED Fellow Cory Combs lays out how electric aircraft could make flying cleaner, quieter and more affordable -- and shares his work on Electric EEL, the largest hybrid-electric plane ever to fly. // Cory Combs is a key figure at Ampaire, a leading company in the field of electric aviation technology. Ampaire is dedicated to advancing hybrid-electric aircraft to minimize emissions, noise pollution, and operational expenses within the aviation sector. Through the successful implementation of the innovative AmpDrive system in various hybrid-electric aircraft, significant improvements in fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and noise levels have been achieved. Collaborating with prestigious institutions such as NASA and ARPA-E, Ampaire is actively engaged in further refining and testing their cutting-edge technology. Cory Combs plays a crucial role in the company's mission to transform air travel by offering cleaner, more cost-effective flights that prioritize environmental sustainability. // Electric aviation entrepreneur // technology, renewable, sustainability, propulsion, flight, cleantech, electric, design, emissions, electric aircraft, investment, energy, pollution, affordable, hybrid propulsion, green flight, environmental impact, air travel, evs, aviation, renewable energy, sustainable aviation, aviation industry, aircraft // California|Los Angeles|United States|USA

California|Los Angeles|United States|USA

United States

Tap dancer // Lebanese-American tap dancer, artistic director of the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues/CPD PLUS and co-founder of The Tap Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the oral tradition and building a cultural center dedicated to tap dance. A protege of Gregory Hines, Andrew has performed with Les Paul, the Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Lionel Hampton Orchestra, Nat Adderley Jr., Harry Connick, Jr., Clark Terry, Dave Eggar, amongst many others. 2012 TEDGlobal Fellow, artist in residence for the Quarterly Arts Soiree (QAS) at Webster Hall, and recipient of the National Endowment of the Arts American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative Grant, Andrew has performed nationally and internationally at such venues as Webster Hall (NYC), the Apollo Theatre (NYC), Town Hall (NYC), Bloomsbury Theatre (London), and the Queen Elizabeth Stadium (Hong Kong). Andrew's tap dance company Cats Paying Dues/CPD PLUS has been a staple in the New York dance scene, toured the northeast, and been featured on local and national television. In his efforts to continue to champion the art form of tap dance, Andrew co-founded the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc., along with Gregory Hines, chartered to build a cultural center in New York City dedicated to tap dance. Through the Tap Legacy Foundation, Andrew directed the 2011 Tap Extravaganza – New York City’s Celebration of National Tap Dance Day and narrated DanceTime Publications first tap dance DVD, Tap Dance History: From Vaudeville to Film. Andrew has been blessed to receive the guidance of many of the great tap dancers including Eddie Brown, Harold Cromer, Dr. Bunny Briggs, Dr. Jimmy Slyde, Dr. James “Buster” Brown, LeRoy Myers, Ernest “Brownie” Brown, Henry “Phace” Roberts, Dr. Henry LeTang, Mable Lee, Tina Pratt, Dianne Walker, Savion Glover, Ted Levy, and Gregory Hines. Andrew is a card-carrying honorary member of the Original Copasetics, Inc. // Mentored by Gregory Hines, Andrew Nemr is considered one of the most diverse tap dance artists today. An international performer, choreographer, educator and speaker, Andrew’s work explores tap dance as a vehicle for storytelling and community building. He has played with Grammy Award winning musicians across multiple genres, founded and directed the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues, now in their 11th season, and co-founded the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc. (along with Hines). “A masterly tapper” (New York Times), Nemr’s work has been recognized with a TED Fellowship, acceptance into the SupporTED Collaboratorium, grants from the National Endowment for the Arts American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative and the CUNY Dance Initiative, a FloBert Award for Tap Dance Excellence, and residencies with Quarterly Arts Soiree at Webster Hall, BRICLab, More Art’s Engaging Artists program, and Surel’s Place. Nemr is recorded on the Grammy nominated recording "Itsbynne Reel" by Dave Eggar, the DVD Documentary and companion album "Tuesdays at Mona’s" by Mona’s Hot Four, and narrates the DanceTime Publications DVD, Tap Dance History: From Vaudeville to Film. An avid public speaker, Nemr now uses the story of his journey and the craft of tap dance to speak on ideas of identity, community, faith, and love. // Mentored by Gregory Hines, Andrew Nemr is considered one of the most diverse tap dance artists today. An international performer, choreographer, educator and speaker, Andrew’s work explores tap dance as a vehicle for storytelling and community building. He has played with Grammy Award winning musicians across multiple genres, founded and directed the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues, now in their 11th season, and co-founded the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc. (along with Hines). “A masterly tapper” (New York Times), Nemr’s work has been recognized with a TED Fellowship, acceptance into the SupporTED Collaboratorium, grants from the National Endowment for the Arts American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative and the CUNY Dance Initiative, a FloBert Award for Tap Dance Excellence, and residencies with Quarterly Arts Soiree at Webster Hall, BRICLab, More Art’s Engaging Artists program, and Surel’s Place. Nemr is recorded on the Grammy nominated recording "Itsbynne Reel" by Dave Eggar, the DVD Documentary and companion album "Tuesdays at Mona’s" by Mona’s Hot Four, and narrates the DanceTime Publications DVD, Tap Dance History: From Vaudeville to Film. An avid public speaker, Nemr now uses the story of his journey and the craft of tap dance to speak on ideas of identity, community, faith, and love. // Tap dancer // oral history, choreography & dance, improvisation, storytelling, documentary, tap dancing // United States

United States

United States

Tap dancer // Lebanese-American tap dancer, artistic director of the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues/CPD PLUS and co-founder of The Tap Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the oral tradition and building a cultural center dedicated to tap dance. A protege of Gregory Hines, Andrew has performed with Les Paul, the Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Lionel Hampton Orchestra, Nat Adderley Jr., Harry Connick, Jr., Clark Terry, Dave Eggar, amongst many others. 2012 TEDGlobal Fellow, artist in residence for the Quarterly Arts Soiree (QAS) at Webster Hall, and recipient of the National Endowment of the Arts American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative Grant, Andrew has performed nationally and internationally at such venues as Webster Hall (NYC), the Apollo Theatre (NYC), Town Hall (NYC), Bloomsbury Theatre (London), and the Queen Elizabeth Stadium (Hong Kong). Andrew's tap dance company Cats Paying Dues/CPD PLUS has been a staple in the New York dance scene, toured the northeast, and been featured on local and national television. In his efforts to continue to champion the art form of tap dance, Andrew co-founded the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc., along with Gregory Hines, chartered to build a cultural center in New York City dedicated to tap dance. Through the Tap Legacy Foundation, Andrew directed the 2011 Tap Extravaganza – New York City’s Celebration of National Tap Dance Day and narrated DanceTime Publications first tap dance DVD, Tap Dance History: From Vaudeville to Film. Andrew has been blessed to receive the guidance of many of the great tap dancers including Eddie Brown, Harold Cromer, Dr. Bunny Briggs, Dr. Jimmy Slyde, Dr. James “Buster” Brown, LeRoy Myers, Ernest “Brownie” Brown, Henry “Phace” Roberts, Dr. Henry LeTang, Mable Lee, Tina Pratt, Dianne Walker, Savion Glover, Ted Levy, and Gregory Hines. Andrew is a card-carrying honorary member of the Original Copasetics, Inc. // Mentored by Gregory Hines, Andrew Nemr is considered one of the most diverse tap dance artists today. An international performer, choreographer, educator and speaker, Andrew’s work explores tap dance as a vehicle for storytelling and community building. He has played with Grammy Award winning musicians across multiple genres, founded and directed the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues, now in their 11th season, and co-founded the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc. (along with Hines). “A masterly tapper” (New York Times), Nemr’s work has been recognized with a TED Fellowship, acceptance into the SupporTED Collaboratorium, grants from the National Endowment for the Arts American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative and the CUNY Dance Initiative, a FloBert Award for Tap Dance Excellence, and residencies with Quarterly Arts Soiree at Webster Hall, BRICLab, More Art’s Engaging Artists program, and Surel’s Place. Nemr is recorded on the Grammy nominated recording "Itsbynne Reel" by Dave Eggar, the DVD Documentary and companion album "Tuesdays at Mona’s" by Mona’s Hot Four, and narrates the DanceTime Publications DVD, Tap Dance History: From Vaudeville to Film. An avid public speaker, Nemr now uses the story of his journey and the craft of tap dance to speak on ideas of identity, community, faith, and love. // Mentored by Gregory Hines, Andrew Nemr is considered one of the most diverse tap dance artists today. An international performer, choreographer, educator and speaker, Andrew’s work explores tap dance as a vehicle for storytelling and community building. He has played with Grammy Award winning musicians across multiple genres, founded and directed the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues, now in their 11th season, and co-founded the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc. (along with Hines). “A masterly tapper” (New York Times), Nemr’s work has been recognized with a TED Fellowship, acceptance into the SupporTED Collaboratorium, grants from the National Endowment for the Arts American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative and the CUNY Dance Initiative, a FloBert Award for Tap Dance Excellence, and residencies with Quarterly Arts Soiree at Webster Hall, BRICLab, More Art’s Engaging Artists program, and Surel’s Place. Nemr is recorded on the Grammy nominated recording "Itsbynne Reel" by Dave Eggar, the DVD Documentary and companion album "Tuesdays at Mona’s" by Mona’s Hot Four, and narrates the DanceTime Publications DVD, Tap Dance History: From Vaudeville to Film. An avid public speaker, Nemr now uses the story of his journey and the craft of tap dance to speak on ideas of identity, community, faith, and love. // Tap dancer // oral history, choreography & dance, improvisation, storytelling, documentary, tap dancing // United States

United States

United States

Tap dancer // Lebanese-American tap dancer, artistic director of the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues/CPD PLUS and co-founder of The Tap Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the oral tradition and building a cultural center dedicated to tap dance. A protege of Gregory Hines, Andrew has performed with Les Paul, the Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Lionel Hampton Orchestra, Nat Adderley Jr., Harry Connick, Jr., Clark Terry, Dave Eggar, amongst many others. 2012 TEDGlobal Fellow, artist in residence for the Quarterly Arts Soiree (QAS) at Webster Hall, and recipient of the National Endowment of the Arts American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative Grant, Andrew has performed nationally and internationally at such venues as Webster Hall (NYC), the Apollo Theatre (NYC), Town Hall (NYC), Bloomsbury Theatre (London), and the Queen Elizabeth Stadium (Hong Kong). Andrew's tap dance company Cats Paying Dues/CPD PLUS has been a staple in the New York dance scene, toured the northeast, and been featured on local and national television. In his efforts to continue to champion the art form of tap dance, Andrew co-founded the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc., along with Gregory Hines, chartered to build a cultural center in New York City dedicated to tap dance. Through the Tap Legacy Foundation, Andrew directed the 2011 Tap Extravaganza – New York City’s Celebration of National Tap Dance Day and narrated DanceTime Publications first tap dance DVD, Tap Dance History: From Vaudeville to Film. Andrew has been blessed to receive the guidance of many of the great tap dancers including Eddie Brown, Harold Cromer, Dr. Bunny Briggs, Dr. Jimmy Slyde, Dr. James “Buster” Brown, LeRoy Myers, Ernest “Brownie” Brown, Henry “Phace” Roberts, Dr. Henry LeTang, Mable Lee, Tina Pratt, Dianne Walker, Savion Glover, Ted Levy, and Gregory Hines. Andrew is a card-carrying honorary member of the Original Copasetics, Inc. // Mentored by Gregory Hines, Andrew Nemr is considered one of the most diverse tap dance artists today. An international performer, choreographer, educator and speaker, Andrew’s work explores tap dance as a vehicle for storytelling and community building. He has played with Grammy Award winning musicians across multiple genres, founded and directed the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues, now in their 11th season, and co-founded the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc. (along with Hines). “A masterly tapper” (New York Times), Nemr’s work has been recognized with a TED Fellowship, acceptance into the SupporTED Collaboratorium, grants from the National Endowment for the Arts American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative and the CUNY Dance Initiative, a FloBert Award for Tap Dance Excellence, and residencies with Quarterly Arts Soiree at Webster Hall, BRICLab, More Art’s Engaging Artists program, and Surel’s Place. Nemr is recorded on the Grammy nominated recording "Itsbynne Reel" by Dave Eggar, the DVD Documentary and companion album "Tuesdays at Mona’s" by Mona’s Hot Four, and narrates the DanceTime Publications DVD, Tap Dance History: From Vaudeville to Film. An avid public speaker, Nemr now uses the story of his journey and the craft of tap dance to speak on ideas of identity, community, faith, and love. // Mentored by Gregory Hines, Andrew Nemr is considered one of the most diverse tap dance artists today. An international performer, choreographer, educator and speaker, Andrew’s work explores tap dance as a vehicle for storytelling and community building. He has played with Grammy Award winning musicians across multiple genres, founded and directed the tap dance company Cats Paying Dues, now in their 11th season, and co-founded the Tap Legacy™ Foundation, Inc. (along with Hines). “A masterly tapper” (New York Times), Nemr’s work has been recognized with a TED Fellowship, acceptance into the SupporTED Collaboratorium, grants from the National Endowment for the Arts American Masterpieces: Dance Initiative and the CUNY Dance Initiative, a FloBert Award for Tap Dance Excellence, and residencies with Quarterly Arts Soiree at Webster Hall, BRICLab, More Art’s Engaging Artists program, and Surel’s Place. Nemr is recorded on the Grammy nominated recording "Itsbynne Reel" by Dave Eggar, the DVD Documentary and companion album "Tuesdays at Mona’s" by Mona’s Hot Four, and narrates the DanceTime Publications DVD, Tap Dance History: From Vaudeville to Film. An avid public speaker, Nemr now uses the story of his journey and the craft of tap dance to speak on ideas of identity, community, faith, and love. // Tap dancer // oral history, choreography & dance, improvisation, storytelling, documentary, tap dancing // United States

United States

Oman

Harvard Kennedy School; University College Roosevelt; Utrecht University; Modern College of Business and Science; University of Delaware; Sultan Qaboos University; Fisheries Development Oman S.A.O.C (FDO); Hydrom; Saïd Business School, University of Oxford; World Aquaculture Society; Harvard University

Rumaitha Al Busaidi is an Omani marine scientist, advocate for environmental youth leadership, and champion for Arab women. She is also an award-winning radio presenter and sportswoman, known as the first female soccer analyst in the Arab World. Rumaitha has embarked on various adventures worldwide, promoting gender equity and sustainability. She founded WomeX, a platform using AI and mentoring to empower women professionally and personally. Her mission is to inspire women to achieve their full potential through a culturally-relevant community. // Rumaitha Al Busaidi is a prominent Omani climate change and women's rights activist, radio presenter, marine scientist, entrepreneur, and former footballer. She holds multiple degrees in environmental science and public administration from prestigious universities. Rumaitha is known for her work in advocating for women's rights, environmental issues, and youth leadership. She has founded initiatives like WomeX to empower Arab women in entrepreneurship and has been recognized internationally for her contributions, including being named to the BBC's 100 Women list. // Harvard Kennedy School; University College Roosevelt; Utrecht University; Modern College of Business and Science; University of Delaware; Sultan Qaboos University; Fisheries Development Oman S.A.O.C (FDO); Hydrom; Saïd Business School, University of Oxford; World Aquaculture Society; Harvard University // My mission is to drive sustainable development and environmental conservation, particularly in Oman and the broader Arab region. I aim to integrate sustainability into core economic strategies, advocate for renewable energy solutions, and empower communities, especially women and youth, to actively participate in climate action. The questions that drive my work include: How can we effectively transition to a low-carbon economy? How can we leverage local knowledge and resources for global environmental solutions? And, how can we ensure that vulnerable communities are resilient in the face of climate change? Through my efforts, I hope to create a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all. // Rumaitha Al Busaidi is a multifaceted Omani professional with expertise in marine science, environmental advocacy, women's rights, and youth leadership. She is recognized for her pioneering work as the first female soccer analyst in the Arab World and her efforts to promote gender equity and sustainability globally. Rumaitha is the founder of WomeX, a platform utilizing AI and mentoring to empower women professionally and personally. With a strong academic background in environmental science and public administration, she is dedicated to driving sustainable development and environmental conservation in Oman and the wider Arab region. Through her initiatives and advocacy, Rumaitha strives to inspire women to reach their full potential and actively engage in climate action for a more equitable and resilient future. // Adventurer + entrepreneur // Rumaitha is an Omani marine scientist and an advocate of women empowerment as a solution to the climate crisis. Rumaitha currently serves as director of the first and only environmental NGO in Oman called; Environment Society of Oman. An award-winning radio presenter and sportswoman, Rumaitha is considered to be the first female soccer analyst in the Arab World. She continues to be a trailblazer setting an example for Arab women by visiting over 70 countries solo. As someone who has personally witnessed climate change impacts as a result of her expedition to the Antarctic and becoming the youngest Omani in history to step foot on the coldest, windiest and driest place on Earth, her passion and advocacy for climate using the lens of women and girls empowerment has grown even stronger. So, during her time at Harvard, she founded WomeX; a platform providing culturally-relevant mentoring for Arab Women to achieve their 10x potential. // What does gender equality have to do with climate change? A lot more than you might think. Empowering women and girls around the world is one of the most important ways to combat carbon pollution and is projected to reduce CO2-equivalent gases by a total of 80 billion tons. Entrepreneur, scientist and TED Fellow Rumaitha Al Busaidi looks at why women are more likely to be impacted and displaced by climate catastrophes -- and explains why access to education, employment and family planning for all women and girls is the key to our climate future. // Rumaitha Al Busaidi is a multifaceted Omani professional with expertise in marine science, environmental advocacy, women's rights, and youth leadership. She is recognized for her pioneering work as the first female soccer analyst in the Arab World and her efforts to promote gender equity and sustainability globally. Rumaitha is the founder of WomeX, a platform utilizing AI and mentoring to empower women professionally and personally. With a strong academic background in environmental science and public administration, she is dedicated to driving sustainable development and environmental conservation in Oman and the wider Arab region. Through her initiatives and advocacy, Rumaitha strives to inspire women to reach their full potential and actively engage in climate action for a more equitable and resilient future. // Adventurer + entrepreneur // technology, renewable, water, travel, hydrogen, entrepreneurship, education, fish, climate action, carbon pollution, youth leadership, jobs, equity, job skills training, gender equity, research, adventure, resilience, activism, climate, local knowledge, athlete, women's rights, rights, environmental policy and advocacy, sustainable development , adventurer, policy, community empowerment champion, women, clean energy, oceans, carbon, pollution, sustainability strategist, climate change, gender, youth, environmental consciousness, aquaculture, green hydrogen technology, advocacy, marine scientist, environment, environmental impact, human population, women empowerment, conservation, renewable energy, girls, low-carbon, empowerment, science, food, environmental conservation, vulnerability, equality, green hydrogen specialist, low-carbon economy, communication, artificial intelligence, energy, family planning, fishing, environmental policy expert // Muscat|Muscat Governorate|Oman

Muscat|Muscat Governorate|Oman

United States

St. George's School; Natera; Yale University; Washington University in St. Louis; National Institutes of Health; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine; The Mission Center; The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; The Johns Hopkins School of Public Health; National Cancer Institute (NCI) / National Institutes of Health (NIH); Freenome; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health; Reformed Theological Seminary; TED Conferences; Rare Genomics Institute

Dr. Jimmy Lin, MD, PhD, MHS, is a Cancer Genomics Pioneer who has dedicated his career to advancing cancer research and treatment. He has been involved in groundbreaking projects such as the first genome-wide sequencing of various human cancers and the development of liquid biopsy cancer monitoring diagnostics. Dr. Lin's work spans across prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins, Washington University in St. Louis, the National Cancer Institute, and companies like Natera and Freenome. His research focuses on applying computational and genomics methods to understand cancer, translating scientific discoveries into clinical diagnostics and therapies. Dr. Lin has published extensively in renowned academic journals, spoken at prestigious universities and conferences worldwide, and been featured in numerous media outlets. He is also the Founder and President of the Rare Genomics Institute, where he leverages technological advances in cancer to combat rare diseases. Dr. Lin's work encompasses a wide range of studies, from identifying genetic alterations in various cancers to developing new approaches for cancer therapy. His contributions have significantly advanced the field of cancer genomics and have the potential to impact the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients globally. // Freenome is dedicated to early cancer detection and improving screening accessibility. Their scientific approach combines computational biology, machine learning, and various data types to detect cancer at its earliest stages. They focus on colorectal cancer, aiming to provide accessible screening options. Freenome conducts large prospective studies to validate their blood-based screening tests for different types of cancer. Their clinical research program includes studies for colorectal and lung cancer, as well as expanding into other cancer types. Freenome values trust, accountability, diversity, and doing what is right. The company's leadership team includes individuals with expertise in various fields related to healthcare and biotechnology. // Freenome is an AI genomics company on a mission to empower everyone with the tools they need to detect, treat, and ultimately prevent their diseases. By applying advanced machine learning techniques to recent breakthroughs in genomic science, Freenome is developing noninvasive blood tests to detect early-stage cancer and improve precision oncology treatments for patients everywhere. The company has raised more than $500 million from investors such as Andreessen Horowitz, Google Ventures, Polaris Partners, and Founders Fund.‚Äã // Natera (NASDAQ: NTRA) is a genetic testing company that develops and commercializes non-invasive methods for analyzing DNA. The mission of the company is to transform the diagnosis and management of genetic disease. In pursuit of that mission, Natera operates a CAP-accredited laboratory certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) in San Carlos, CA. Natera is also applying its unique technologies to develop non-invasive screening and diagnostic tools for earlier detection and improved treatment of cancer - finding circulating DNA (ctDNA) based on liquid biopsy methods. // TED Fellows program handpicks world-changing innovators from around the globe and brings them to the TED stage -- literally and figuratively -- to raise international awareness of their remarkable work.http://www.ted.com/pages/ted2012_fellows // We created a new clinical sequencing capability at the NIH/NCI to help more cancer patients access more accurate therapies and cures. // The Mission Center L3C is a think tank for social entrepreneurs, academics, foundations and impact investors who are passionate about finding innovative, business-minded, and sustainable solutions to social problems. // I led the clinical exome sequencing initiative in the Genomic & Pathology Services. // Melanoma Cancer Genomics // We help patients with orphan diseases initiate and fund personalized research projects through a dedicated microfunding platform and highly-selective network of leading academic scientists and commercial institutions. // Advisors: Bert Vogelstein, MD & Victor Velculescu, MD, PhDThesis: Genome-wide Sequencing of Breast, Colorectal, Pancreatic, and Brain Cancers // Advisor: Giovanni Parmigiani, PhDThesis: Computational & Statistical Methods for Cancer Genomics // St. George's School; Natera; Yale University; Washington University in St. Louis; National Institutes of Health; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine; The Mission Center; The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; The Johns Hopkins School of Public Health; National Cancer Institute (NCI) / National Institutes of Health (NIH); Freenome; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health; Reformed Theological Seminary; TED Conferences; Rare Genomics Institute // Jimmy Lin is a seasoned professional with a diverse background in genomics, AI, and healthcare. With experience at companies like Freenome and Natera, he has been instrumental in developing non-invasive blood tests for early cancer detection and advancing precision oncology treatments. Jimmy has also been involved in creating clinical sequencing capabilities at prestigious institutions like the NIH/NCI, showcasing his expertise in the field. His work extends to initiatives in melanoma cancer genomics, orphan disease research, and collaborations with renowned experts in the field. Through his involvement with the TED Fellows program and The Mission Center L3C, Jimmy demonstrates a commitment to driving innovation and social impact in the genomics and healthcare sectors. // Detect cancer before it appears and when it can be treated. Democratize research to enable rare disease innovation. // Dr. Jimmy Lin, MD, PhD, MHS, is a distinguished figure in the field of cancer genomics, renowned for his pioneering work in advancing cancer research and treatment. With a career spanning prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins and the National Cancer Institute, as well as companies like Natera and Freenome, Dr. Lin has been instrumental in groundbreaking projects such as genome-wide sequencing of human cancers and the development of liquid biopsy cancer monitoring diagnostics. His research focuses on applying computational and genomics methods to understand cancer, translating scientific discoveries into clinical diagnostics and therapies. Dr. Lin's contributions have significantly advanced the field of cancer genomics, with a focus on identifying genetic alterations in various cancers and developing new approaches for cancer therapy. Additionally, as the Founder and President of the Rare Genomics Institute, he leverages technological advances in cancer research to combat rare diseases, showcasing his commitment to driving innovation and social impact in the genomics and healthcare sectors. // Geneticist // Geneticist and founder of the Rare Genomics Institute, an organization that allows patients to crowdsource funds and genomes to accelerate research of their rare genetic diseases. Jimmy is the lead computational biologist for the ground-breaking cancer genome sequencing efforts from the Vogelstein Lab at Johns Hopkins. Their sequencing of the first 100+ cancer exomes in 5 different tissue types has helped lay the foundation for a revolution in cancer genomics. After completing his MD/PhD at Johns Hopkins, along with colleagues at Harvard and Yale, Jimmy started Rare Genomics Institute: a non-profit biotech venture that microfunds and enables genome sequencing for children with rare and orphan diseases. // Jimmy Lin, MD, PhD, MHS, has devoted his life to defeating cancer. As the Chief Scientific Officer (CSO), Oncology at Natera (NASDAQ: NTRA), he is leading development of new diagnostic technologies to detect cancer DNA in the blood years before current methods. Dr. Lin is also a 2016 TED Senior Fellow and Founder/President of Rare Genomics Institute, the world's first platform to enable any community to leverage cutting- edge biotechnology to advance understanding of any rare disease. Partnering with many of the top medical institutions, such as Harvard, Yale, Stanford, and Johns Hopkins, RG helps custom design personalized research projects for diseases so rare that no organization exists to help. Previously, Dr. Lin was the Director of Clinical Genomics at the National Cancer Institute at the NIH as well as a medical school faculty member at the Washington University in St. Louis. He led the computational analysis of the first ever exome sequenching studies for cancers with Bert Vogelstein at Johns Hopkins, including breast, colorectal, glioblastoma, melanoma, and pancreatic cancers. He has spoken at 8 TED and TEDx events, Aspen Ideas Festival, the Brookings Institute, Milken Institute FasterCures, among others. He has numerous publications in Science, Nature, Cell, Nature Genetics, and Nature Biotechnology, and has been featured in Forbes, Bloomberg, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and the Huffington Post. He has spoken at these TED events: TED 2012, TEDActive 2014, TEDxMidWest, TEDxMidAtlantic, TEDxBaltimore, TEDxRenfrewCollingwood, TEDxGatewayArch, TEDxTaipei. // Jimmy Lin is developing technologies to catch cancer months to years before current methods. He shares a breakthrough technique that looks for small signals of cancer's presence via a simple blood test, detecting the recurrence of some forms of the disease 100 days earlier than traditional methods. It could be a ray of hope in a fight where early detection makes all the difference. // Dr. Jimmy Lin, MD, PhD, MHS, is a distinguished figure in the field of cancer genomics, renowned for his pioneering work in advancing cancer research and treatment. With a career spanning prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins and the National Cancer Institute, as well as companies like Natera and Freenome, Dr. Lin has been instrumental in groundbreaking projects such as genome-wide sequencing of human cancers and the development of liquid biopsy cancer monitoring diagnostics. His research focuses on applying computational and genomics methods to understand cancer, translating scientific discoveries into clinical diagnostics and therapies. Dr. Lin's contributions have significantly advanced the field of cancer genomics, with a focus on identifying genetic alterations in various cancers and developing new approaches for cancer therapy. Additionally, as the Founder and President of the Rare Genomics Institute, he leverages technological advances in cancer research to combat rare diseases, showcasing his commitment to driving innovation and social impact in the genomics and healthcare sectors. // Geneticist // technology, early cancer detection, entrepreneurship, led, cancer genomics, data, machine learning, research, design, bioinformatics, monitoring, rare diseases, impact investing, multiomics, accessibility, biotech, ml, children, ai, nature, science, computational biology, accountability, artificial intelligence, rare disease, disease // Maryland|Taiwan|San Carlos|San Francisco|USA|California|United States

Maryland|Taiwan|San Carlos|San Francisco|USA|California|United States

Morocco

Architect + ecotourism // Moroccan civil engineer and architect creating sustainable, built environments in the developing world, particularly in the deserts of the Middle East. // Aziza Chaouni is founding principal of Aziza Chaouni Projects and assistant professor at the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design. She was formerly principal and co-founder of Bureau E.A.S.T. At the University of Toronto, Chaouni directs the research platform Design Ecological Tourism (DET). DET Projects have won several awards in 2012 including the ACSA Collaborative Award and a Progressive Architecture (P/A) Award Citation. Chaouni’s personal research focuses both on developing world design issues and on methodologies to integrate architecture and landscape, and more particularly through investigating the potential of sustainable design approaches in arid climates. Chaouni's former office with partner Takako Tajima, Bureau E.A.S.T., as well as Aziza Chaouni Projects have been recognized with top awards for both the Global and Regional Africa and the Middle East competition from the Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction; the Architectural League of New York Young Architects Award; Environmental Design Research Association Great Places Award; the American Society of Landscape Architects Design Awards; and other professional design awards and prizes. Chaouni's work has been published and exhibited internationally, including the International Architecture Biennale in Rotterdam; INDEX: Design to Improve Life in Copenhagen; and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN HABITAT) World Urban Forum. Chaouni graduated with a MArch with Distinction from the Harvard Graduate School of Design, and with a B.S. with Honors in Civil Engineering from Columbia University. // The Fez River winds through the medina of Fez, Morocco—a mazelike medieval city that's a World Heritage site. Once considered the "soul" of this celebrated city, the river succumbed to sewage and pollution, and in the 1950s was covered over bit by bit until nothing remained. TED Fellow Aziza Chaouni recounts her 20 year effort to restore this river to its former glory, and to transform her city in the process. // Aziza Chaouni is founding principal of Aziza Chaouni Projects and assistant professor at the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design. She was formerly principal and co-founder of Bureau E.A.S.T. At the University of Toronto, Chaouni directs the research platform Design Ecological Tourism (DET). DET Projects have won several awards in 2012 including the ACSA Collaborative Award and a Progressive Architecture (P/A) Award Citation. Chaouni’s personal research focuses both on developing world design issues and on methodologies to integrate architecture and landscape, and more particularly through investigating the potential of sustainable design approaches in arid climates. Chaouni's former office with partner Takako Tajima, Bureau E.A.S.T., as well as Aziza Chaouni Projects have been recognized with top awards for both the Global and Regional Africa and the Middle East competition from the Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction; the Architectural League of New York Young Architects Award; Environmental Design Research Association Great Places Award; the American Society of Landscape Architects Design Awards; and other professional design awards and prizes. Chaouni's work has been published and exhibited internationally, including the International Architecture Biennale in Rotterdam; INDEX: Design to Improve Life in Copenhagen; and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN HABITAT) World Urban Forum. Chaouni graduated with a MArch with Distinction from the Harvard Graduate School of Design, and with a B.S. with Honors in Civil Engineering from Columbia University. // Architect + ecotourism // research, rivers and lakes, pollution, sewage, design, construction, architecture, tourism, sustainable design, ecology, urban, habitat // Morocco|Fez-Meknès|Fez|Fes

Morocco|Fez-Meknès|Fez|Fes

United States

Nigeria

Executive Director, WANGONeT // Lagos|Nigeria

Lagos|Nigeria

South Africa

Pan Africa Educator // Fred Swaniker is passionate about Africa and believes that Africa's future will be determined by the quality of its future leaders. He has thus devoted the last several years to building an institution that aims to transform Africa by developing its next generation of leaders: African Leadership Academy. Before founding African Leadership Academy, Fred founded Global Leadership Adventures, a leadership development program for youth throughout the world, and also helped launch Mount Pleasant English Medium School, one of the top-performing private elementary schools in Botswana. Fred began his career after college in the Johannesburg office of McKinsey & Company, where he advised management teams of large companies across Africa. Fred has an MBA from Stanford Uni-versity, where he was named an Arjay Miller Scholar, a distinction awarded to the top ten percent of each graduating class. He also holds a BA degree magna cum laude from Macalester College. // Fred Swaniker is passionate about Africa and believes that Africa’s future will be determined by the quality of its future leaders. He has thus devoted the last several years to building an institution that aims to transform Africa by developing its next generation of leaders: African Leadership Academy, (www.africanleadershipacademy.org). Before founding African Leadership Academy, Fred founded Global Leadership Adventures, a leadership development program for youth throughout the world, and also helped launch Mount Pleasant English Medium School, one of the top-performing private elementary schools in Botswana. Fred began his career after college in the Johannesburg office of McKinsey & Company, where he advised management teams of large companies across Africa. Fred has an MBA from Stanford University, where he was named an Arjay Miller Scholar, a distinction awarded to the top ten percent of each graduating class. He also holds a BA degree magna cum laude from Macalester College. // Before he hit eighteen, Fred Swaniker had lived in Ghana, Gambia, Botswana and Zimbabwe. What he learned from a childhood across Africa was that while good leaders can't make much of a difference in societies with strong institutions, in countries with weak structures, leaders could make or break a country. In a passionate talk the entrepreneur and TED Fellow looks at different generations of African leaders and imagines how to develop the leadership of the future. // Fred Swaniker is passionate about Africa and believes that Africa’s future will be determined by the quality of its future leaders. He has thus devoted the last several years to building an institution that aims to transform Africa by developing its next generation of leaders: African Leadership Academy, (www.africanleadershipacademy.org). Before founding African Leadership Academy, Fred founded Global Leadership Adventures, a leadership development program for youth throughout the world, and also helped launch Mount Pleasant English Medium School, one of the top-performing private elementary schools in Botswana. Fred began his career after college in the Johannesburg office of McKinsey & Company, where he advised management teams of large companies across Africa. Fred has an MBA from Stanford University, where he was named an Arjay Miller Scholar, a distinction awarded to the top ten percent of each graduating class. He also holds a BA degree magna cum laude from Macalester College. // Pan Africa Educator // children, youth // Hurlingham|Sandton|South Africa|Gauteng

Hurlingham|Sandton|South Africa|Gauteng

United States

Neuroscientist // A South African-born neuroscientist who is working with the US government to contain biological, chemical and nuclear weapons. She recently co-founded BluePrint International, which uses technology to overcome complex social problems in developing countries, like improving the logistics of vaccine delivery. // Originally from South Africa, Dr. Catharine Young holds a doctorate degree in Biomedical Sciences and currently serves in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Here she works to advance the Cancer Moonshot - The President and First Lady’s mission to decrease the cancer death rate by 50% over the next 25 years. Her focus on cancer began with serving as the Senior Director of Science Policy at the Biden Cancer Initiative (BCI), a non-profit established in 2017 by then former Vice President Biden, leading efforts to bring together the biotech, technology, science, and academic fields to drive innovative solutions and breakthroughs against cancer. Catharine then served as the Executive Director of a Rare Cancer Advocacy organization, where she advanced policy reform and awareness for all rare cancers. Prior to BCI, Catharine served as the Senior Science and Innovation Policy Advisor and Head of the DC team for the Foreign Ministry of the UK. Following her Postdoctoral training at Cornell University in Biomedical Engineering, Catharine was selected as an American Association for the Advancement of Science, Science and Technology Policy Fellow in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Programs. Here she helped lead international engagements on eliminating biological weapons, improving biosafety and biosecurity, and establishing and enhancing biosurveillance capacity, and assisted with the DoD’s response to the Ebola outbreak in Western Africa, which she served during the Obama Administration. Awards include being selected as a TED Fellow, a New Voices Fellow of the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine, a Presidential Leadership Scholar, and Social Enablers top 100 most inspiring social entrepreneurs. Catharine is an advocate for women in STEM and has been a contributor to major social and media networks including TED-Ed, the Guardian and the UK Science and Innovation Network. // Originally from South Africa, Dr. Catharine Young holds a doctorate degree in Biomedical Sciences and currently serves in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Here she works to advance the Cancer Moonshot - The President and First Lady’s mission to decrease the cancer death rate by 50% over the next 25 years. Her focus on cancer began with serving as the Senior Director of Science Policy at the Biden Cancer Initiative (BCI), a non-profit established in 2017 by then former Vice President Biden, leading efforts to bring together the biotech, technology, science, and academic fields to drive innovative solutions and breakthroughs against cancer. Catharine then served as the Executive Director of a Rare Cancer Advocacy organization, where she advanced policy reform and awareness for all rare cancers. Prior to BCI, Catharine served as the Senior Science and Innovation Policy Advisor and Head of the DC team for the Foreign Ministry of the UK. Following her Postdoctoral training at Cornell University in Biomedical Engineering, Catharine was selected as an American Association for the Advancement of Science, Science and Technology Policy Fellow in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Nuclear, Chemical, and Biological Defense Programs. Here she helped lead international engagements on eliminating biological weapons, improving biosafety and biosecurity, and establishing and enhancing biosurveillance capacity, and assisted with the DoD’s response to the Ebola outbreak in Western Africa, which she served during the Obama Administration. Awards include being selected as a TED Fellow, a New Voices Fellow of the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine, a Presidential Leadership Scholar, and Social Enablers top 100 most inspiring social entrepreneurs. Catharine is an advocate for women in STEM and has been a contributor to major social and media networks including TED-Ed, the Guardian and the UK Science and Innovation Network. // Neuroscientist // technology, developing countries, biosecurity, nuclear weapons, science, biotech, entrepreneurship, policy, advocacy, nuclear, logistics, government, job skills training, women, stem // Washington|United States|District of Columbia

Washington|United States|District of Columbia

Argentina

Video game lawyer // Hi there nice to meet you! 🙌 I am Micaela Mantegna, a video game lawyer and activist known as Abogamer, (a portmanteau of 'abogada', the Spanish word for lawyer, and gamer). Some facts about me: ✔️My first book "ARTficial: creativity, AI and copyright" is currently on press! 🎉 ✔️Currently, I am a TED Fellow and an affiliate at the Berkman Klein Center at Harvard, doing research at the intersection of video games, AI ethics, ©️ , immersive technologies for extended reality (XR) with a focus on the governance of the Metaverse. ✔️As an activist, I am the founder of Women In Games Argentina (WIGAr), a non-profit working towards a more inclusive gaming industry; and a Women in Games International (WIGJ) Ambassador. ✔️I have been featured by EA in the official video of my favorite video game. Just ask me, is great to start a conversation! ;) Here you can find more about me and my work: https://cyber.harvard.edu/people/micaela-mantegna // "The metaverse is already on fire, and we haven't even built it yet," says TED Fellow and video game lawyer Micaela Mantegna. She lays out why the metaverse is at risk of inheriting some of the internet's worst traits, like unchecked surveillance -- and shows how we could redirect its fate through new laws grounded in kindness and connection. // Hi there nice to meet you! 🙌 I am Micaela Mantegna, a video game lawyer and activist known as Abogamer, (a portmanteau of 'abogada', the Spanish word for lawyer, and gamer). Some facts about me: ✔️My first book "ARTficial: creativity, AI and copyright" is currently on press! 🎉 ✔️Currently, I am a TED Fellow and an affiliate at the Berkman Klein Center at Harvard, doing research at the intersection of video games, AI ethics, ©️ , immersive technologies for extended reality (XR) with a focus on the governance of the Metaverse. ✔️As an activist, I am the founder of Women In Games Argentina (WIGAr), a non-profit working towards a more inclusive gaming industry; and a Women in Games International (WIGJ) Ambassador. ✔️I have been featured by EA in the official video of my favorite video game. Just ask me, is great to start a conversation! ;) Here you can find more about me and my work: https://cyber.harvard.edu/people/micaela-mantegna // Video game lawyer // research, technology, inclusion, activism, ethics, metaverse, governance, copyright, fire, artificial intelligence ethics, artificial intelligence, xr, women, video games // Argentina

Argentina

Ireland

Performance artist+ activist // Performance artist+ activist