There are clear and harmful effects of bullying and the act of picking on people for being different or for various other reasons. This behaviour is not only immoral but also disrespectful, and it’s something that should be addressed openly rather than ignored. Emily has always loved volunteering and free writing, and is interested in different views on and the causes of mental health issues. She is a part of the SRC (Student Representative Council) and helps with bread packing for the Community Companion Van. Outside of school, Emily loves reading, baking, dance and spending time with her cousins. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Overcoming anxiety isn't easy. Everyone deserves the confidence to put themselves out there. Anxiety can feel like an invisible barrier, holding people back from chasing their dreams - but does it have to? Eleanor loves anything in the creative scene. Acting, art, writing, music. Overcoming anxiety and doing what she loves is very important to her. She believes everyone deserves the confidence to put themselves out there. She loves hanging out with her friends and going on bike rides. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

This talk delves into how we all can handle social media with constructive intent to make a positive difference and help create a better world. Benita Dua is a Social Media Coach and an entrepreneur. For over 20 years, she’s worked with leaders and individuals, showing them how to turn social media into a tool for growth, influence and thought leadership. Benita has written books on it, spoken about it on global stages, and even shared her insights at Harvard. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

We’re often told to choose a career path early and stick with it for life - but what if that’s not the best way to live? In her talk, Abigail challenges the idea of a single lifelong career and explores how changing career pathways can lead to greater fulfilment, personal growth, and adaptability in an ever-evolving world. It’s time to rethink the pressure of sticking to one job forever and embrace the possibilities of change. Abigail loves performing arts and backstage and has participated in a series of productions for 5 years. She is also fluent in Auslan and hopes to see an increase in the understanding of Auslan among hearing Australians. She spends her weekends at the gym and painting. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Jeritza Gurgel — lawyer, journalist, story-teller — has always been passionate about people, exploring different perspectives of the world through other people's stories. So, in this lecture, by strolling through her life story, Jeritza tells us how she became a social reporter and how this career can be an impactful tool in modern society Jeritza has been a lawyer for 25 years and is a social columnist for Diário do Nordeste, but between courts and editorials she shows another side of herself: she creates digital content sharing her experiences, opinions and stories that we would sit for hours to listen to.This multifaceted woman from Ceará is proof that, with versatility and originality, it is possible to challenge stereotypes by combining encounters, culture, knowledge and diverse passions. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

In this captivating talk, Dr. Sarah Little explores how a seemingly simple act—trying to cut a stubborn piece of okra—reveals profound truths about the invisible threads that bind communities together. Through personal storytelling and a touch of humor, the Dr. Little shows how creating lasting connections shape who we are. Connections Cultivate Culture is a flavorful journey into the power of connections and the unexpected lessons found in the most ordinary moments. Dr. Sarah Little, Professor of Education, graduated from Erskine College in 2006 with certifications in special education and early childhood education. She began her teaching career in special education in Abbeville. After marrying her husband, Daniel (Erskine Class of 2008), she moved to Latta, S.C., where she taught first grade. She and her husband moved to the Upstate in 2013, where Dr. Little served as an instructional coach and testing coordinator in Spartanburg District 4. She completed a Master’s Degree in Education from Southern Wesleyan University, an Education Specialist Degree in Literacy from Converse College, a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of South Carolina, and a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of South Carolina. Before coming to Erskine. Dr. Little taught at North Greenville University, where she served as Early Childhood Department Chair, Assessment Coordinator, and Teacher Cadet College Partner. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx