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).

Rancho Bernardo High School Performing Arts Center
13010 Paseo Lucido
San Diego, California, 92128
United States

Allison Apfeld

Student, Political Activist

Allison is a student, environmentalist, and political activist. She is involved with Junior State of America (JSA), a student-run organization encouraging youth political engagement, and Inspire U.S., a non-partisan organization promoting youth voter registration and participation. As president of the Rancho Bernardo JSA and Inspire U.S. chapters, Allison has worked to increase civic involvement at her school. In the fall, Allison will be attending American University.

Azza Ayouty

Educator, Teacher

Azza Ayouty was born in Alexandria, Egypt. She attended the University of Alexandria and received a Bachelor of Science with a major in Chemistry and a minor in mathematics. She immigrated to the United States in the early 1980s. She received a Peace Fellowship and attended Duke University in North Carolina, was awarded an Ambassador of Goodwill Scholarship by Rotary International and attended St Cloud State University in Minnesota graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction, and attended Illinois State University to earn her Doctorate. Azza has been teaching for over 30 years. She taught high school mathematics, biology, and physics. She has been teaching 8th grade mathematics for the past 14 years at Bernardo Heights Middle School where she was voted 2019 Teacher of the Year. Azza’s passion for learning has helped her change the educational and career paths of many of her students towards an upward trajectory of fulfilled goals and dreams.

Gabby Le

Student

Gabby Le is a sophomore at RB High. She's involved in art and mental health clubs and is a youth volunteer for the Red Cross. She enjoys public speaking and open discussion, believing an environment in which people are forced to think critically about conflict leads to effective problem solving. An aspiring artist, she looks for ways to capture the diversity of the human experience and shed light on humanitarian crises through her work. She is a three year alumni of the Blue Lake Fine Arts program and has participated in multiple art shows including The Food Gatherers Auction charity event, The Ann Arbor Art Fair, and RB High’s own Spring Art Show. She has given speeches about MLK's legacy, opening a dialogue to discuss racial issues in school. In her spare time she enjoys reading, writing and listening to music. Next year, she will launch an art and literature magazine on campus to create a platform for students to express themselves, display their work, and join the conversation.

Michael Brueggemeyer

Director

Michael Brueggemeyer is a film and video Director and seven-time EMMY recipient. He has been a Director since 1990, and has directed commercials, corporate videos, documentaries, and narrative films. Three of his films have screened at the Cannes Film Festival, and his commercials have appeared nationally. He has worked on projects for companies such as Chevrolet, Pitney Bowes, MasterCard, Protection One, Sunkist and many others. Prior to working as a Director, Mike was a Director of Photography on feature films and commercials. He produces videos at no cost for non-profits and people in need, and for good causes.

Nepal Arslan

Student

Nepal Arslan is a senior at RB and for the past 10 years, filmmaking has been a huge part of his life. He believes it to be his personal outlet for change and a potential lifelong career filled with exciting experiences. As a freshman he started a small video advertising company and since then has made dozens of commercials for companies such as Guinness World Records and toured with international bands. But most importantly, has been able to take the time to tell the stories that he values whether it be through documentaries or narrative short films, many of which have received recognition and awards. For the next 4 years, he will be studying film and television production at New York University on a full ride scholarship. The art of filmmaking is Nepal’s one true passion and he hopes it will be with him forever.

Patrick Ashman

Student, Rapper

Patrick Ashman is a student currently enrolled at Rancho Bernardo High School in his Junior year. Both on campus and off, he has channeled his enjoyment for writing and verbal expression through events such as the annual RBHS Poetry Contest and the recently founded RBHS Rap Club, of which he is the president. In regards to the mission of his club, Ashman has focused on creating a group that encourages positivity, fun, and vocal confidence for people on the school campus through the art of performed poetry and Rap music. He has been interviewed for the school newspaper, school broadcast outlet, and has done various impromptu performances for members of the student body.

United Studios of Self Defense 4S Ranch

Performers

Stef Alberts and Will Hall have been teaching at their highly successful martial arts school, United Studios of Self Defense 4S Ranch, for over 10 years. They combine their unique styles to introduce life changing concepts to students of all ages through compassionate, humorous and engaging instruction. Through personalized attention, Stef and Will have become not just a part of the community, but of each family; utilizing their 40 years of combined experience to ensure success at home, school and work. Recipients of 2016 Business of the Year and 2018 Outstanding Leadership Award, they created “Karate Without Limits”; providing custom lessons to students with physical and educational challenges. Will and Stef also spend their time volunteering at companies, schools and organizations throughout San Diego conveying their belief that every individual, regardless of age, financial status or limitations has the right to learn how to defend themselves and lead full, enriching lives.