Theme: Human/Nature

Join us Saturday, October 14 at WJCT Studios for TEDxJacksonville 2023 "Human/Nature."

The conference will feature talks on ideas worth spreading from 10 speakers and three musical performances, as well as an array of engagement activities. The conference will be from 11:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. followed by the Afterglow party — all at WJCT. Check-in begins at 10:30 a.m.

Human/Nature.

This year’s conference theme, Human/Nature, is a meditation on not only the incredible richness of being human, but also the intimate relationship between humanity and the natural world. Humanity and nature are not separate — we are interconnected and interdependent. The impact that human actions have on nature is as self-evident as the impact nature has on us.

This year’s conference speakers:

• Caryn Antonini (Greenwich, Connecticut) — Around the globe, we share our customs and unique cultures through our cuisine. When thoughtfully prepared, food has the power to transcend borders and unite disparate peoples in a shared experience that breaks down some of the barriers that isolate us from one other. Caryn Antonini believes we owe it to our global neighbors and ourselves to both honor the language of food and preserve the critical cultural stories it conveys.

• Iva Ballou (Jacksonville) — A facial difference affects more than the way one speaks. It can also affect learning, behavior, social abilities, self-confidence, and everyday interactions with others. But as Iva Ballou knows from personal experience, in the United States whether a child with a cleft palete or craniofacial anomalies receives the medical attention and surgeries they desperately need depends entirely on which state they happen to live in—and that needs to change.

• Matthew Chang (Jacksonville Beach) — Robots used to be the stuff of science fiction. Soon, they’ll be your coworkers. As a champion of the adoption of cobotics, Matthew Chang has personally led the engineering teams that have developed the largest cobotic systems in the world, across industries as diverse as manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare. But he acknowledges the adjustment to this new way of working will not be painless. Will the pain of adoption be offset by the increase in workforce satisfaction?

• Anne Coglianese (Jacksonville) — In an age of climate crisis, what does it mean to be a resilient city? Part of "future-proofing" Jacksonville requires modifying our city government to embrace change. Data and science are tools that city governments can use to anticipate future conditions and improve regulatory and financial systems to accommodate change. Anne Coglianese, Jacksonville's first Chief Resilience Officer, will talk about how our city's data-informed, science-based resilience planning will advance the notion of what it means to be a resilient city.

• Christi Gendron, PhD (Ann Arbor, Michigan) — Dr. Christi Gendron's lab at the University of Michigan has long been interested in how the brain controls aging, and how sensory experiences with the external world (including food, light, pheromone, and even death cues) produce physiological changes that affect lifespan. Understanding how neural circuits regulate aging in common fruit flies could eventually lead to targeted drug therapies in humans that slow the aging process — while also providing insights into how psychology potentially impacts health and lifespan.

• Diana Greene, PhD (Jacksonville) — Black women educators bring a diverse set of experiences and viewpoints to their work, which is critical to encouraging different perspectives, broadening students' world views, and fostering innovation. Dr. Diana Green, the former Superintendent of Duval County Public Schools, believes that one way to improve our educational system is to empower more women of color to hold leadership roles that impact and influence public policy centered on education.

• Alexa Hagerty, PhD (Toulouse, France) — We're entering an era of ubiquitous AI, but do we truly understand the threats it presents to our basic freedoms? As an anthropologist whose field work has included exhuming mass graves of citizens "disappeared" by their governments, Dr. Alexa Hagerty well knows how archives of data can be weaponized. She argues it's urgent that we implement concrete, actionable approaches to ensuring that AI systems uphold democratic values and human rights.

• Neil Moore (Los Angeles) — With so many technologies emerging on so many fronts, can the human brain keep up? Neil Moore believes that humanity must think more creatively than ever before. By providing the brain with the critical neurological nutrition of musicianship, he believes we can discover and reconnect to our innate creative capability, and prepare ourselves for the complex and challenging future we face.

• Nadine Salem (Jacksonville) — Growing up, many of us heard the phrases "Stranger Danger" and "Don't talk to strangers." While these cautionary phrases may be useful for children, Nadine Salem believes in the power that unfolds when we stay open to chance interactions with strangers. A former CIA analyst and global strategy advisor, Nadine has found that engaging with strangers develops empathy, courage, and new perspectives — if we remain open to the lessons they bring.

• Colah B. Tawkin (Atlanta) — Through her popular podcast, Black in the Garden, Colah B. Tawkin inspires and encourages Black individuals to embrace the transformative power of gardening as a tool for personal growth, empowerment, and cultural preservation. By honoring and celebrating these cultural connections to the land, we strengthen our collective identity, promote intergenerational bonds, and contribute to a stronger, more empowered, and culturally rich community.

And three live performances:

• 95 South — Jacksonville's own multi-platinum recording duo 95 South will take the stage at TEDxJacksonville as hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary. 95 South first hit the scene in 1993 with the monster hit "Whoot There It Is" from their debut album Quad City Knock, with the song reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100. They followed their debut album with more hits, including "Rodeo" and "Tight Work," and have remixed songs for artists including Jordan Knight, Dru Hill and LFO. Today, 95 South's Carlos (Daddy Black) Spencer and Michael (Mike Mike) Phillips continue to light up crowds with their energetic music.

• Jesabel — Originally from Georgia, singer-songwriter Jesabel found music in the depths of losing herself as a new mom. She found her way to music at the ripe age of 27, going from not singing in front of another soul, not even her own husband, to now as a full-time musician, songwriter and recording artist. She released her sixth single, and first holiday tune, "Christmas Mood" in November 2022. She blends folk and pop with a dash of country roots and the sprinkle of soulful patina only a life well-lived provides.

• LoveReigns — Spoken word artist LoveReigns is not just a poet — she is a mentor, advocate, educator, entrepreneur and so much more. She is currently teaching poetry enrichment at a local Jacksonville public school and facilitating writing workshops. She is the co-founder of The Cypher Open Mic Poetry & Soul; founder of Artis(Tree) Live and The Artis(Tree) Youth Project; and owner/CEO of LoveReigns Customized Poetry.

FAQs

Will food be available?

Yes. The lunch options are here — and you choose one at the time of your order.

• African Love Kitchen — For this food truck, choose one of these options: 1) Mango chicken with spinach over rice; 2) Vegan Vegetable Curry

• Luvin' O-Van — Hot reuben sandwich with pickled cucumbers and chips

• Twisted Okie — For this food truck, choose one of these options: 1) Pulled pork sandwich with seasoned fries; 2) smoked veggie tacos with a side of collards

• Saffron Grilled — Chicken Schwarma pita with rice

• Mama's Chicken — Chicken quesadilla with fries

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

No.

Some talks may deal with sensitive subject matters that may not be suitable for all ages. Discretion is advised.

What are my transportation/parking options for getting to and from the event?

Free parking is available in the WJCT parking lot. We highly encourage carpooling and arriving early to ease congestion.

What can I bring into the event?

Handbags are allowed, but are subject to security screening.

No food or drink is permitted in the theatre.

Videos cameras and flash photography are not permitted.

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Email us at social@tedxjacksonville.com!

What's the refund policy?

All sales are final.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

Please do, but we can use a photo ID to verify.

Is my registration fee or ticket transferable?

You can transfer your registration to another person prior to 10/1/23. Email us at social@tedxjacksonville.com with your receipt and the contact information that is receiving the ticket.

Is it OK if the name on my ticket or registration doesn't match the person who attends?

Only if they don't mind wearing a name tag with your name on it.

WJCT Studios
WJCT Public Broadcasting
100 Festival Park Avenue
Jacksonville, Florida, 32202
United States

95 South

When you think of Miami Bass Music, one of the names that comes to mind is the multi-Platinum bass duo 95 South. The group, formed by Carlos (Daddy Black) Spencer and Michael (Dirty Mike) Phillips are from Jacksonville Florida and the name is in reference to Interstate 95, which passes through the city. 95 South first hit the scene in 1993 with the smash hit ” Whoot there it is” from their debut album “Quad City Knock”. 95 South in 1995 still had the dance floors full with hits like “Rodeo” (1995) and “Tight Work” (2001) and “Wet and Wild.” 95 South is also credited with spawning groups such as 69 Boyz and the Quad City DJ’s. Through the group’s many successes and time invested in the industry, 95 South is still dedicated to making the world move to great, fun dance music with new hits like “Ridin In My Chevy” that are sure to make you move.

Alexa Hagerty, PhD

Anthropologist & AI Ethicist

Alexa Hagerty is an anthropologist researching human rights and technology. She holds a PhD from Stanford University and is a research affiliate at the University of Cambridge. She was named as one of 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics and her research has been supported by institutions including the National Science Foundation, Mellon Foundation, Social Science Research Council, and American Ethnological Society. Her work has been covered by The NewYork Times, BBC, The Sunday Times, The Guardian, andLondon Review of Booksamong others. In addition to academic publications, Alexa has written for Wired, Los Angeles Review of Books, and the Palais de Tokyo museum. She is the author of “Still Life with Bones: Genocide, forensics, and what remains,” a New York Times Book Review Editors’ Choice.

Anne Coglianese

Resilience Specialist

Anne Coglianese is the Chief Resilience Officer for the City of Jacksonville. In this capacity, Anne leads the development of resilience initiatives to ensure Jacksonville can adapt and thrive in the face of acute shocks and chronic stresses brought on by climate change. Previously, Anne served as the Coastal Resilience Manager for the City of New Orleans where she implemented nature-based solutions to sea-level rise and coastal land loss. Anne’s previous experience also includes serving at the White House Council on Environmental Quality, where she participated in the development of climate resilience policies to meet the Obama administration’s resilience goals. Data and science are tools that city governments can use to anticipate future conditions and improve regulatory and financial systems to accommodate change. Coglianese will talk about how our city’s data-informed, science-based resilience planning will advance the notion of what it means to be a resilient city.

Caryn Antonini

Culinary Ambassador

Caryn Antonini has traveled extensively, learning languages at a young age. Her global experiences led her to Georgetown University where she continued her linguistic studies at the Georgetown School of Languages and Linguistics, inspiring her to develop the award-winning Early Lingo Learning System. Caryn is a seasoned entrepreneur, most recently launching Cultivated by Caryn, a multimedia brand focusing on culture, cuisine and comfort. The Cultivated by Caryn Show podcast launched in October 2022. Around the globe, we share our customs and unique cultures through our cuisine. When thoughtfully prepared, food has the power to transcend borders and unite disparate peoples in a shared experience that breaks down some of the barriers that isolate us from one other. Culinary ambassador Caryn Antonini believes we owe it to our global neighbors and ourselves to both honor the language of food and preserve the critical cultural stories it conveys.

Christi Gendron, PhD

Neurobiologist & Aging Researcher

Dr. Christi Gendron is a molecular biologist researching how sensory events shape our health and lifespan. She holds a PhD from Imperial College London and is a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Michigan. Her work has been supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Animal Models for the Social Dimensions of Health and Aging Research Network, and the Glenn Foundation for Medical Research. In addition to her academic publications in top scientific journals, Christi has written for The Conversation and has been a speaker at many international conferences. Her work has been covered by The New York Times, BBC, National Geographic, The Guardian, and the New Scientist among others. Dr. Christi Gendron, a neurobiologist researching the neural underpinnings of how sensory perception impacts physiology and lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster, believes her findings could have important implications for our own health and longevity.

Colah B. Tawkin

Plantrepreneur

Colah B. Tawkin is a visionary leader, skillfully combining her passion for planting with her creativity and charisma on the mic. As the mastermind behind the 'Black in the Garden' podcast and founder of 'Underground Arborist,' she's on a mission to diversify plant-related industries as she amplifies the green aspect of Black culture. In its first years, the podcast gained top ratings and a global audience, connecting with influential guests and fostering inclusivity. Colah's wit and insights make horticulture accessible, while her role as a mother and former trucker enriches her unique perspective. She's a sought-after speaker and an ambassador for environmental stewardship through her non-profit. Colah embraces her calling as the planeteer Captain Planet raised her to be, blooming with purpose and making a powerful impact!

Diana Greene, PhD

Education Leader

Dr. Diana Greene has served in public education for over 37 years, previously holding roles as a classroom teacher, school principal, director of professional learning, deputy superintendent and Superintendent of Duval County Public Schools. Dr. Greene oversaw many transformative changes in her role as a superintendent including increasing and maintaining the district’s highest graduation rates over her 5-year tenure, removing all schools from the state’s turnaround list, and cutting the number of low-performing schools by more than half. In addition, she led the effort to pass two referendums for improved & new facilities and teacher compensation. With a deep commitment to social justice and racial healing, Dr. Greene leads Children’s Literacy Initiative as its Chief Executive Officer, spearheading the organization’s work of partnering with school systems across the nation to provide the antiracist early literacy instruction, support, and advocacy needed to create equity in education.

Fenton Reese

Spoken word artist Reese the Poet is also an artist, musician, and communicator who specializes in storytelling. He is also a youth inspirational speaker and life skills teacher who aims to educate, equip, and empower students to make healthy life choices through verbal engagement and critical thinking exercises.

Iva Ballou

Facial Difference Advocate

Iva Ballou is the Community Development Manager for Smile Train, a Motivational Speaker, Cleft Confidence Coach, and a Facial Difference Advocate who uses her gifts to increase awareness and education for the facial difference community. She is also a co-host of the Love Meets Joy podcast. She discusses her journey and all things cleft in this honest and empowering series. Through finding her RealSophisticatedJoy, she now empowers others to pivot from shame to confidence in their journey. A facial difference affects more than the way one speaks. It can also affect learning, behavior, social abilities, self-confidence, and everyday interactions with others. Corrective surgery can help a child better navigate a world where people with facial differences are a common phobia. Today, complete comprehensive cleft care varies not just from state to state, but from country to country. And that needs to change.

Jesabel Music

Originally from Georgia, singer-songwriter Jesabel found music in the depths of losing herself as a new mom. She found her way to music at the ripe age of 27, going from not singing in front of another soul, not even her own husband, to now as a full-time musician, songwriter and recording artist. She blends folk and pop with a dash of country roots and the sprinkle of soulful patina only a life well-lived provides.

Matthew Chang

Autonomous Systems Expert

Matthew Chang is one of the top innovation leaders in the region with a focus on transformational technology and autonomous robotics. Matthew is a licensed engineer in the USA and in China, having earned his degree from Georgia Tech. Matthew developed his business skills at Jacksonville University, earning an Executive MBA. Matthew currently serves as a board advisor for Jacksonville University and a board member of Lifework Leadership. As an entrepreneur he founded Chang Industrial, a technology systems engineering firm that has twice been recognized as one of the fastest growing companies in Northeast Florida. Tomorrow’s workforce will work hand in hand with robotics in nearly every industry sector. Leading this transition will be collaborative robots, aka co-bots, which are designed and manufactured to work safely alongside humans. Matthew Chang has personally led the engineering teams that have developed the largest cobotic systems in the world.

Nadine Salem

Global Strategist & Connection Cultivator

Nadine Salem is a passionate storyteller who blends writing, speaking, and music to foster connection and share new perspectives. She is a leader in global strategy, leveraging her diverse background in national security and business. Throughout her career, Nadine has advised at the highest levels of private and public institutions, including the White House and Fortune 100 companies. Her stories merge her work experience and spiritual learnings. Her goal is to help people reconnect to the magic, to themselves, and to each other, to strengthen meaning in the human experience.

Neil Moore

International Music Educator

Australian educator Neil Moore is the Founder of Simply Music, an international music education organization. Neil's Simply Music program codifies the way that music occurred to him as a young child — hearing music and visualizing shapes and patterns. His unique approach democratizes music learning and transforms how quickly people can learn how to play and teach music. Neil's vision is to cause a breakthrough in access to musical self expression and elevate the creative capability of humanity. Simply Music is taught by licensed educators throughout the world, and his online, self-study program provides education to students across 132 countries.

Taryn "LoveReigns" Wharwood

Taryn "LoveReigns" Wharwood is a multifaceted creative force, renowned for her roles as a poet, writer, author, emcee, motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and curator. Affectionately known as Love, she has become a catalyst for empowering performers, artists, and entertainers within her community. Currently serving as the Program Director for The Performers Academy of Jacksonville, Love's mark on Jacksonville's artistic landscape is undeniable, as she stands as the founder of Artis(Tree) Live, The Closet Jax, and as the Co-Founder of The Cypher Open Mic Poetry & Soul—an event that boasts the title of the longest-running open mic in Jacksonville's history, and recently served on the Mayor's transition team for Arts, Culture & Entertainment. Through her words, her aura, and her indomitable spirit, Love exudes love in every facet of her being. Meeting her is an experience that underscores why Love truly does Reign. Her impact on the artistic community and beyond is a testament to her unwavering commitment to uplifting, inspiring, and creating spaces for self-expression and growth.