Kelly Shawn Joseph delivers a message of solidarity. Violence against women is systemic and happening everywhere. Through her humanitarian work in over 30 countries she shows why it will take all of us to rewrite this story and the steps we need to take to open a new chapter.Kelly is a passionate advocate for ending violence against women and girls. She partners with international organizations to promote survivor-centered services and empower grassroots women’s rights movements. Kelly Shawn Joseph is committed to ending violence against all women and girls. Throughout her career, she has worked across the public and private sectors in 30 countries, co-leading program development, implementation, evaluations, and research across Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and in parts of Central, Southern, East, and West Africa as well as the United States.Kelly has worked extensively on the technical and social aspects of addressing violence against women and girls within various international organizations and UN agencies. She has also conducted feminist-grounded research and facilitated local partnership building aimed at strengthening and increasing women and girls’ access to survivor-centered services in humanitarian and development settings, while mobilizing resources to support and strengthen women’s rights movements.She prides herself on pushing more international organizations to work in true partnership with grassroots women’s rights activists and organizations from global majority countries to ensure their voices are heard and listened to within the halls of power.Kelly holds a master’s degree in International Affairs from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs. 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

Maya Gabeira knows that sometimes losing ourselves is the only way to truly find who we are. From career highs to the depths of PTSD and depression, Maya shares how, by disconnecting, there’s a chance to reconnect with a more honest, empowered version of ourselves.A two-time Guinness World Record holder, ESPY Award winner, and UNESCO Ocean Champion, Maya is one of the most influential female big wave surfers and an advocate for ocean conservation. Maya Gabeira is a groundbreaking Brazilian big wave surfer, renowned for her remarkable achievements and relentless spirit in conquering the world’s most epic waves. She not only won the Guiness World Record in 2018 but she created the category itself by riding a 68-foot wave at Nazaré, Portugal—the largest wave ever surfed by a woman. She then broke her own record in 2020 by riding a 73.5-foot wave at the same location—the biggest wave surfed by anyone that year. An ESPY Award winner and 7-time Big Wave Award champion, Maya is regarded as one of the most influential female surfers of all time.Her journey is defined by resilience and the courage to face her fears head-on. After a life-threatening wipeout at Nazaré in 2013, Maya returned to the waves, confronting trials that demanded both physical strength and mental resolve. Her commitment to facing her fears is a central theme in her recent documentary, Maya and the Wave, which showcases her determination to embrace the unknown.Beyond her remarkable accomplishments, Maya is a passionate advocate for ocean conservation. As a UNESCO Champion for Ocean and Youth, she raises awareness about environmental issues and inspires the next generation to protect marine ecosystems. She also authored 2 Children book. Maya and the Beast which tells her life story and Maya Makes Waves, emphasizing ocean protection. Through her groundbreaking feats and unwavering commitment to the ocean, Maya Gabeira continues to challenge stereotypes and empower individuals worldwide to embrace courage and the transformative power of facing their fears in pursuit of their dreams. 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

Mélanie Freymond explains how effective communication is about more than words - it’s shaped by body language, tone, and confidence. We communicate constantly, non-verbally, and Melanie encourages everyone to embrace flaws and banish perfectionism to express their authentic voices.Mélanie is an influential Swiss journalist and presenter committed to empowering women in to confidently express their authentic voices. Mélanie Freymond is a dynamic force committed to empowering women to make a powerful impact, whether in the boardroom or on stage. An acclaimed Swiss journalist, television and radio presenter, and actor, Mélanie combines her extensive media experience with a deep passion for communication. With a master’s degree in sociology of communication and journalism, she has built an illustrious career across leading Swiss media outlets, including RTS, Rouge FM, LFM, and Radio Lac.As a seasoned event host, Mélanie has graced major platforms such as the Swiss Economic Forum, Watches and Wonders, and the Swiss Film Prize, bringing her poise and charisma to high-stakes environments. She also hosts notable Swiss television programs like The Swiss Voice Tour, Agriculture Durable, and Votre Argent, where her engaging presence and expert communication shine.Beyond media, Mélanie is devoted to helping women discover their authentic voices, equipping them with the tools to communicate their worth with confidence. Her workshops empower participants to deliver compelling messages that influence key decisions, leaving a lasting impression. A versatile stage performer, she continues her acting career with performances across Europe, including a notable appearance at the 2022 Avignon International Theatre Festival.Mélanie’s mission is clear: to inspire women to step into their power and make their voices heard in every arena. 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

Ay Wing shares her journey of finding her authentic voice through body awareness. She reveals how reconnecting with her physical self transformed her music and deepened her artistic expression and ultimately became a turning point in her career as a songwriter.Singer, songwriter, and producer Ay Wing captivates audiences with her dynamic R&B sound She was honored as Best Talent by SRF3. Berlin-based singer, songwriter, and producer Ay Wing captivates audiences with her dynamic R&B sound, seamlessly blending introspective lyrics that explore femininity, healing, and self-reflection with infectious, beat-driven rhythms. Her distinct style has garnered international acclaim, collaborating with notable artists such as Nappy Nina, Patrick Paige (The Internet), Chuuwee, and Mark Battles. In 2022, Ay Wing was honoured as Best Talent by SRF3, recognizing her exceptional talent and impact in the music scene.Her hit single “Orange Dreamer” has amassed over 8 million streams and more than 100,000 downloads, landing on prestigious Spotify playlists including Mellow Bars, Fresh Finds, and the official Adidas playlist Adidas for Creating at Home.Having toured extensively across Europe and the USA, Ay Wing has opened for acclaimed acts like Selah Sue, LP, and Sofi Tukker. Her music continues to resonate with listeners globally, showcasing her ability to weave emotional depth into captivating soundscapes. 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

Olympian Sarah Atcho explores how to cultivate unwavering resilience in the face of life’s toughest setbacks - not only ones experienced by elite athletes. Sharing her journey through injuries, lost dreams, and personal battles, Sarah demonstrates how resilience is found by going inward, vulnerability, and perseverance.Sarah has competed in the Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024 Olympics for Switzerland. She champions resilience, women’s empowerment in sports and mental health. Sarah Atcho is a 3x olympic champion as a Swiss sprinter and local heroine whose career reflects not only her athletic prowess but also her commitment to mental and physical health advocacy. As a world-class athlete, she has represented Switzerland on the global stage, most recently competing in the Paris 2024 Olympics. Sarah’s athletic journey began in her teenage years when she joined an athletics club, quickly excelling in sprint events. Since then, she has participated in major competitions, including the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics.Sarah is passionate about using her platform to empower women through sports. She actively promotes mental resilience and overcoming challenges, believing that physical and mental well-being are crucial for success both on and off the track. Her story of persistence, especially following a significant knee injury in 2020, showcases her dedication to reclaiming her narrative and inspiring others to do the same.In 2019, she was part of the Swiss 4x100m relay team that earned the Team of the Year award at the Swiss Sports Awards, a testament to her excellence in teamwork and leadership.Throughout her career, she has pushed international organizations to support grassroots women’s sports movements and has been a strong advocate for mental health awareness, particularly for female athletes. 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

Dr. Naomi Potter shines the light on a medical blind spot that has left women invisible in midlife. She explains how a menopause revolution is underway, and its impact is going to be profound for women, families, the workforce and society as a whole.Dr. Potter is an accredited menopause specialist and co-author of the bestselling book Menopausing. Founder of Menopause Care Ltd, she advocates for personalized menopause care and better education. Dr. Naomi Potter is a pioneering hormone specialist, acclaimed menopause expert, and one of the foremost advocates for women’s health today. As an accredited specialist with the British Menopause Society, Dr. Potter has redefined how we approach menopause care, empowering women with cutting-edge, evidence-based solutions. With over 20 years of experience, her career is a testament to innovation, compassion, and advocacy.‍ Dr. Potter co-authored the groundbreaking bestseller Menopausing with TV personality Davina McCall, a book that revolutionized the conversation around menopause. In 2023, Menopausing took home not one but two prestigious British Book Awards, winning both Overall Book of the Year and Lifestyle Book of the Year. This milestone reflects her deep impact not just in medicine, but also in reshaping societal narratives on menopause.‍ As the founder of Menopause Care Ltd, Dr. Potter leads a clinic offering personalised menopause management across the UK, setting a new standard in hormone therapy and holistic care. Featured in The Times, The Guardian, and British Vogue, she is a tireless advocate for accessible, stigma-free menopause treatment.‍ In collaboration with many companies, Dr. Potter integrates menopause education into corporate wellness programs, ensuring workplaces become more supportive environments for women. Her public appearances and social media advocacy have created a thriving online community, where she provides women with support and the tools to navigate this transformative phase of 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