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).

Woah! Studios & The Grounds
8-14 Henderson Valley Rd
Henderson
Auckland, Auckland, 0612
New Zealand

A meditation in blackness

Poet Dancer Performer

Accomplished performers Otis Donovan Herring, Fellis McGuire and Yaw Asumadu, under the directorial eye of Renée Sheridan, come together to bring the words of Dr Bayo Akomalofe to life in this performance. Their journey to mastery has seen the trio dance, play, write, act, compose, teach, choreograph and drum on various soils across the globe. Find out more about them at https://tedxauckland.com/people/a-meditation-in-blackness/

Belinda McKenzie

Survivor

Belinda is a Mum, wine enthusiast and burns survivor. At 12 years old she received burns to most of her body, and her life took an unexpected and dramatic change. Through recovery she has mastered the art of reinvention, from navigating love and relationships, becoming a fashion designer, being a sought after speaker and an inspiration to other burns survivors. Belinda is an advocate for The NZ Burns Support Group - a network of support and practical help that improves the lives of burn survivors and their families.

Shalsee Vigeant

Veterinary Doctor

Shalsee is a veterinary doctor, director and practice owner with a career spanning over three decades. Shalsee has worked across the world specialising in trauma and emergency medicine and before coming to New Zealand, was the director of a large-scale emergency clinic in New Hampshire. She then went on to the role of Veterinary Manager at the SPCA in Auckland before gravitating back to emergency and critical care medicine. She is a frequent commentator in NZ media around topics in the veterinary profession but her passion lies with mentoring young professionals in the field and finding ways to make this career lifetime sustainable.