This presentation examines how the loss of cultural values, traditions, and practices can affect a nation's economy. It explores how abandoning local languages, crafts, clothing, and customs in favor of foreign influences can weaken local industries, reduce job opportunities, and limit economic independence. The speaker highlights how cultural identity is closely linked to creativity, entrepreneurship, and national pride. By turning away from cultural roots, societies may unintentionally reduce their ability to build sustainable economies. This talk calls for a renewed appreciation of culture as both a source of identity and a powerful economic asset.Chukwunonso Enemuoh, known as Nonso Dazeman, is a data scientist with over 15 years of experience across biotech, automotive, aviation, security, and finance. He currently works at the European Stability Mechanism (ESM), promoting financial stability in the Eurozone.He holds a BSc in Computer Science and Mathematics and an MSc in Data Analytics from the University of Portsmouth. His expertise lies in using data to drive innovation and solve complex challenges.In 2023, he founded Dazeman Consultancy to combat Nigeria’s brain drain by creating remote job opportunities in data careers. The initiative has placed 890 Nigerians in global roles, with a goal of empowering 100,000 by 2030.His TEDx talk, The Economic Impact of Culture Abandonment, explores how the loss of African cultural identity affects economic growth and how reclaiming cultural values can drive long-term empowerment and resilience. 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

Teddy Lytle explains how lying, when done effectively, requires a deep understanding of the truth and oneself. He argues that lying can be a method to uncover more profound truths, especially in the context of acting, where audiences willingly suspend disbelief to connect with the performance. Lytle reflects on his experiences as an alcoholic and actor, emphasizing that vulnerability and honesty in sharing one's truth can lead to genuine understanding and community. Teddy Lytle is a theatre artist and educator based in Providence Rhode Island. He writes and produces original solo shows to address mental health and to dispel stigma around addiction recovery. More information can be found at www.teddylytle.com. 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

Working in the cardiology department at Yale-New Haven Hospital, Renae Martin witnessed patients facing their mortality and searching for their truths. They often realized the importance of family, friends, and joy. She tells the story of one elderly man reconciled with his estranged son before passing away, highlighting the wisdom gained from vulnerability. This experience taught her that we don't need to wait until our deathbeds to discover our truths; by turning inward and reflecting on what truly matters, we can live more authentically and meaningfully. Renae Martin is a Health and Longevity Coach dedicated to empowering busy professionals to cultivate heart-healthy habits for a vibrant future through midlife and beyond. As founder of The Wellness Flame, LLC in Narragansett, RI, she combines expertise in cardiac nursing, cardiac rehabilitation, community health and exercise physiology with board certifications as a Holistic Nurse, Health & Wellness Coach, HeartMath Practitioner and Advanced Reiki provider. Through her unique blend of clinical, physical, and holistic health expertise, Renae inspires individuals to take charge of their health and make sustainable changes that lead to lifelong vitality. 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

Eric Thorkilzen discusses children's unique ability to speak the truth in ways that adults often don't, revealing factual honesty and deeper emotional truths. Children's unfiltered observations remind us of our core selves, often buried under responsibilities and self-doubt. By listening to children, we can reconnect with our inner truths and learn to be better versions of ourselves. They teach us about honesty, joy, and living in the present moment, showing us what truly matters. Erin Thorkilsen is a passionate educator, innovator, and advocate for children. She is the founder of Heart in Education—a program for teachers that brings a fresh, heart-centered approach to professional development. An adjunct professor of education at the University of Rhode Island, Erin is a recognized leader in the fields of well-being and mindfulness, a podcast guest, conference presenter, parent educator, and consultant.With over 20 years as an award-winning elementary classroom teacher, Erin deeply understands the challenges and joys of teaching. She has taught preK, kindergarten, fourth grade, mentored and supervised undergraduate and graduate student teachers, and served in an administrative role as the Director of Associate Teachers. Balancing her professional work with the adventure of raising twin young daughters, Erin lives in Wakefield, RI with her husband, the two girls, and dog, Ruby. 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

Fake news appears on our computers, smartphones, and other electronic gadgets, and it can take many forms, including written, pictorial, spoken, and video. Sharmin tells her story about how she was overwhelmed with "fake" news when she saw the "HOLLYWOOD" sign caught fire, and worried about her family and her friends. She knew immediately how to detect if the picture was fake or not. She takes the audience on a short journey, showing them how to detect the authenticity of the news in all its forms to find the truth. As Director of the Digital Marketing program at Bryant University and co-author of “The Little Black Book of Social Media” and “The Little Black Book of Social Selling,” Dr. Sharmin Attaran helps businesses navigate digital transformation through strategic AI integration and innovative marketing solutions. Her expertise spans digital marketing strategy, AI implementation, and consumer behavior, enabling organizations to achieve measurable business outcomes in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape. A sought-after expert who combines academic insight with practical application, she empowers businesses to harness cutting-edge technology while maintaining authentic customer connections. 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

Saint-Denis est à la croisée de l’histoire de la « France éternelle » et de la « France d’aujourd’hui ». Ville des Rois de France et symbole multiculturel, elle incarne les défis sociaux et culturels du pays. La reconstruction de la flèche, chef-d’œuvre architectural disparu en 1846, représente un geste universel de confiance en l’avenir, invitant à redresser la tête et à renouer avec le patrimoine historique dans une dynamique tournée vers demain. Julien de Saint Jores agit depuis près de vingt ans en Seine-Saint-Denis pour promouvoir une action culturelle inclusive et participative. Ancien directeur de cabinet de l’université Paris 8, il a valorisé son esprit d’innovation pédagogique et scientifique. À la tête de la direction de la culture du Département pendant six ans, il a cherché à renforcer l’engagement des habitants. Depuis 2021, en tant que directeur général de l’association Suivez la Flèche, il porte le projet ambitieux de reconstruire la célèbre flèche de la basilique Saint-Denis, démontée il y a près de 180 ans. 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