Theme: Living With Purpose

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Stewart Middle School
1315 W Marshall St
Norristown, Pennsylvania, 19401
United States

Herman Douglas

Educator

Herman Douglas is a reading and writing teacher at Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary School within the School District of Philadelphia. He loves teaching and has been educating children for over 20 years. Herman’s fundamental purpose is to promote student achievement among black and brown children. His instructional practices are based in data driven instruction, social justice, and culturally responsive teaching. Ultimately, Herman’s goal is to recruit, train, and retain melanated educators to transform urban education. Herman received his bachelor of education from West Chester University and currently is writing his dissertation on the impact of blended learning within large urban schools.

Joey Smith

Artist

Jahaunne "All$um Joey Crackk" Smith is an artist and entrepreneur. He recently released his debut album "Crakkademic Era Vol: A Rose from the Concrete," currently streaming on all major platforms. Through his locally known street band "All$um," he uses his music to speak out against injustice advocate for youth. He has collaborated with Kenya Vaun's N.B.A. (New Black Anthem), which is available on YoutTube. Joey is a 2009 graduate of the Norristown Area High School.

Justin Smith

Entreprenuer

Justin Smith is an entrepreneur, real estate investor, and mentor. He has previously launched a group buying website called Fruugaldeal and an online ordering platform called Xpressmenus. Currently, Justin is the CEO of JES Capital Investments LLC, a full service construction and investment company focused on urban development. He is passionate about financial literacy and helping others achieve their financial goals through real estate. As such, he founded Real Estate Swagg, an online education platform that teaches people about real estate investing. Most recently he launched “Day Wit Jay,” a comprehensive in person group seminar that provides training and guidance to future real estate investors. Justin was born and raised in Norristown PA. He currently resides in Cherry Hill, New Jersey with his wife and daughter. A graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Justin received degrees in both Business and Psychology.

Kristi Hertzog

Survivor

Kristi Hertzog is the Founder and President of the nonprofit organization, Coming Home with Grace. As a wife and mother of four daughters, Kristi has faced numerous medical challenges – from battling debilitating Postpartum Depression to spending almost two months in a coma, Kristi has learned not to let her struggles define her. Kristi uses her blog, Mom Battles, as a platform to uncover the harsh realities and unbelievable joys that life has to offer. Her blog portrays a life without any filters. Kristi was an educator at Norristown Area School District for over 17 years before transitioning to a Brand Ambassadorship of This is it TV. In this capacity, Kristi represents the channel’s daily, digital talk show mission to motivate people in every area of their life. Kristi graduated with a B.S. in Secondary Education/English from La Salle University and received an M.S. in Education from Villanova University.