“Unplug from social media likes, followers, retweets and tags, and think – what makes you relevant? What is your identity and what conversations and experiences have defined your life?”
These were the questions posed to 3,000+ attendees at the beginning of TEDxVancouver 2015. We were invited to redefine of ourselves as learners and thinkers, “having adopted the best of a shared genetic code that has evolved to make us stronger, smarter, and more connected… welcomed into a global collective, blessed with infinite differences.” The energy throughout the day was curious and keen. Prior to and between the speaker sessions participants enjoyed a curated art showcase, fashion pop-up and Urban Record Lounge – a space where attendees could relax, listen to music and swap records.
This day of ideas was put together by hundreds of volunteers and featured 22 speakers from diverse backgrounds. The speakers came from all walks of life and had different perspectives to share with us. Reflections on identity came in the form of historical videos, personal stories, soul-searching, discovery through music and dance, as well as the future of technology and what it means for the world around us.
Prevail, an ambassador for the therapeutic charity Music Heals and a co-front man for Canadian music group Swollen Members
Despite their differences, the messages from the Buzzfeed viral contributor, former mayor, TV host, artist, sex economist, Bachelorette, and break-dancer alike were the same. We can and should find safe spaces to be ourselves, to love and create in a world where our identities can shine through in an authentic way. Every speaker, from Jackie Huba to Mohamed Fahmy, Ivan Coyote to Matthew Williams, highlighted that we have a responsibility to make our world a safe place where who you are is revered, celebrated, and encouraged so that you can step further into your potential and greatness. I was personally inspired by the raw truth that these individuals spoke from. I was moved by the strength, passion, and commitment they have to understanding their identity and encouraging others to do the same.
Mohamed Fahmy, a world journalist recently released from an unlawful 400+ day incarceration in Egypt
At the end of TEDxVancouver, John Herdman, Head Coach of the Canadian Senior Women’s National Soccer Team, made compelling connections to our national anthem, focusing on key questions that we should allow to permeate our lives and truly live by as Canadians: “What is your true north? What are you standing on guard for?” As Vancouverites, as Canadians, glorious and free, we are free to choose glory as we interact with others in the community, building our identity.
Sprinkled through the day were messages of hope, unity, love, and peace – upfront and direct in the day following the series of tragic attacks in Paris. This event banded together 3,000+ participants through awareness and focus on inclusivity during turbulent times. We were sent back out into our city to internalize the insights we heard throughout the day and grow as a stronger, more identifiable collective of unique individuals.
Jessica is a fourth year BBA student pursuing a concentration in Human Resource Management with a minor in Early Education. Valuing co-curricular involvement as an essential complement to the academic experience, she has actively sought out opportunities to learn and grow outside of the classroom at the SFU Beedie School of Business. She has been involved with the Business Administration Student Society (BASS) as President, Vice President of Human Resources, and Manager of Corporate Relations. Jessica is currently completing her fourth Co-operative Education work term in consultant training and enablement at SAP after working in not-for-profit event planning and HR at Goldcorp. She is passionate about pursuing her personal and professional development by continuing to seek enriching experiences within Beedie and the Vancouver business community.