Theme: The Future is Now

The Future is Now: TEDxCornellUniversity aims to uplift voices actively working to change the world, ranging from the crisis in Ukraine to innovations in CRISPR, the intersection of fashion and technology, and social entrepreneurship.

Alice Statler Auditorium
7 East Avenue
Ithaca, New York, 14853
United States

Dillon Carroll

Global Activist

Mark and Dillon are both recent Cornell alumni, graduating in 2019 and 2020 respectively. In March 2022, in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Mark and Dillon co-founded MissionTo.org, a grassroots team assembled to provide immediate humanitarian aid to Ukrainian refugees, internally displaced persons, and civilians under siege. Their TED talk will explore service leadership in the digital age, and the importance of adaptability and kindness in the face of adversity.

Lior Cole

Model and Computer Scientist

Lior is a worldwide IMG Model and Cornell CIS alumni who is passionate about democratizing access to AI/Web3 for under-represented groups in the space. After building various tech passion projects including a “Jewish” AI called Robo Rabbi, and creating @cornellfashioncollective’s first digital outfit, she is now building AI for the creative world through her VC-backed, pre-launch tech company. Her TEDxCornell talk will explore how AI and Web3 can work to expand creative boundaries and empower creators.

Mark Kreynovich

Global Activist

Mark and Dillon are both recent Cornell alumni, graduating in 2019 and 2020 respectively. In March 2022, in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Mark and Dillon co-founded MissionTo.org, a grassroots team assembled to provide immediate humanitarian aid to Ukrainian refugees, internally displaced persons, and civilians under siege. Their TED talk will explore service leadership in the digital age, and the importance of adaptability and kindness in the face of adversity.

Paul Rose

Explorer, Television Presenter, Journalist and Author

Paul Rose is an ardent explorer, television presenter, journalist, and author, a former Vice President of the Royal Geographical Society, and an Expedition Leader on the Pristine Seas team. His TEDxCornell talk will explore how we all have a role to play in our world’s pressing issues through science and exploration.

Rumbidzai Mangwende

Entrepreneur

Rumbidzai Mangwende is a student and entrepreneur who is currently pursuing a degree in Finance at Cornell University. She is also the CEO of EthosSphere, an Ethnic Beauty Fulfillment center. Her TED talk will focus on the flaws and challenges of the concept of social entrepreneurship.

Sarah Evanega

Plant Scientist

Sarah is a Plant scientist, science communicator, and Imagineer shaping evidence-informed decision-making in our food system. She is a Professor at the Boyce Thompson Institute, Adjunct Associate in CALS, and Thought Leader for Pairwise, a food start-up. Her TEDxCornell talk will examine biotechnology and CRISPR role in our agricultural food system.