What kind of future do we want as humanity steps beyond Earth? Pam Melroy takes the stage to explore how space exploration is shaping not only our understanding of the universe but also the values we carry into the cosmos. She highlights how the lessons of the past—like the International Space Station’s remarkable legacy of global cooperation—can guide us toward a future rooted in peace and shared progress. With the NASA’s Artemis campaign poised to send the first woman and person of color to the surface of the Moon, she emphasizes the importance of building a culture of exploration that benefits all humanity. Drawing on science fiction’s vivid contrasts between utopias and dystopias, she makes the case for deliberate, principled action now to ensure a bright future among the stars. This is a powerful call to action for anyone who dreams of a world united by curiosity and hope. Col. (USAF, ret) Pam Melroy was sworn in as the NASA deputy administrator on June 21, 2021. As deputy administrator, Melroy performs the duties and exercises the powers delegated by the administrator, assists the administrator in making final agency decisions, and acts for the administrator in his absence by performing all necessary functions to govern NASA operations. Melroy is also responsible for laying out the agency’s vision and representing NASA to the Executive Office of the President, Congress, heads of federal and other appropriate government agencies, international organizations, and external organizations and communities.Melroy was commissioned through the Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program in 1983. As a co-pilot, aircraft commander, instructor pilot, and test pilot, Melroy logged more than 6,000 flight hours in more than 50 different aircraft before retiring from the Air Force in 2007. 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

Preston Curtis's talk shows just how important it is to be happy and optimistic in your everyday life. Life is hard and can sometimes get you in a rut, so giving yourself the ability to be happy throughout every situation is necessary. He has many experiences that have nearly sent him to an early death, so he will be sharing just how valuable life truly is and that you should enjoy every minute. From Denver, Colorado, Preston Curtis enjoys studying psychology and is a varsity rower. A first year student who has done everything they can to become as engaged as possible. He loves to spend as much time as he can hanging out with friends while also trying to experience everything possible. Whether it be competitive tennis or water polo, life is too short not to try it all. He firmly believes that hard work and a smile on your face are key to achieving our goals, both in rowing and in life. 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 the next 10 years, 50-60% of the jobs we know today will disappear. This isn't just a prediction - it's a radical truth that we must confront. In this talk, Iyobosa explores the future of work, the rise of emerging technologies, and how to build a mindset that keeps us adaptable in a rapidly changing world. From artificial intelligence to immersive technology, the workforce of tomorrow demands that we continuously evolve. The question is: What will you do tomorrow? Pioneering the next digital frontier, Iyobosa leverages a decade of creative expertise to transform complex technologies into accessible, human-centric solutions. As the founder of FloatsXR, he's dedicated to making emerging technologies intuitive and impactful through immersive technology and Artificial intelligence.With over a decade of experience in filmmaking, digital content, product design, and user experience design, Iyobosa is leading the charge in shaping the future of emerging tech in Africa.Iyobosa successfully spearheaded the HeadsByBnxn NFT project, integrating blockchain and XR, which onboarded 7,000+ people into the creator economy.He has been featured in renowned platforms like Billboard, TechCabal, and The Guardian for his work in XR and the creator economy.Iyobosa is on a mission to unlock the collaborative power of technology, optimization of products and businesses through immersive tech, artificial intelligence and innovation design. 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

Born six weeks early into a life of access and privilege, Adaeze’s journey which began with a dream of becoming a pioneering cardiologist, quickly evolved into a purpose-driven mission in public health. From witnessing disparities in healthcare as a medical student to battling Hodgkin’s lymphoma, her experiences shaped her into a relentless advocate for equitable & accessible healthcare. Now serving in a position to influence policies, she shares insights on the urgent need for systemic reform, the power of advocacy, and why everyone must collectively move the needle to drive healthcare access and responsible public investment in healthcare. Dr. Adaeze Oreh is a Consultant Family Physician, Public Health Specialist, and the Honourable Commissioner for Health in Rivers State. Prior to her appointment, she was the Pioneer Country Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics for Nigeria’s National Blood Service Commission (NBSC), and a Senior Health Policy Advisor with Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health with over two decades of private and public healthcare experience.She is a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians, Kofi Annan Global Health Leadership Programme, the Aspen Institute, the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, the Royal Society of Public Health, and a Member of the White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood Global Advisory Group and the International Society of Blood Transfusion COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Working Group. She advocates for respectful, quality healthcare, health equity, universal health coverage, and quality medical education, and was invited to speak at the 74th UNGA. 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

Albina talks about how her participation in debates changed the way she communicates and learns. Albina is an aspiring debater who has won several awards for her outstanding critical thinking and eloquence. She is determined, diligent and passionate about learning, likes physics and arts. 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