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).

Touhill Performing Arts Center
One Touhill Circle
St. Louis, Missouri, 63121
United States

Hanz Dismer

Hanz Dismer is a licensed clinical social worker and sexuality educator working at the intersection of interpersonal and institutional violence. Much of their work focuses on practical application of Reproductive Justice in family planning and abortion care settings. As Director of Psychosocial Services at Hope Clinic, an independent abortion provider in the St. Louis Metro East, Dismer supervises a team of social workers and educators who provide comprehensive, evidence-based reproductive health education, counseling, and support to those seeking abortions. They serve as a field instructor for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in social work and public health. In addition to their work in abortion care, Dismer is also a feminist therapist serving primarily transgender youth and adults. Dismer also works to train healthcare providers on practices that foster compassionate, trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, sex-positive, and person-centered care. Dismer is a speaker, storyteller, writer, and activist. They are a certified sexuality educator through the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists. Dismer was the 2022 recipient of the Counselor Advocate of the Year award through Illinois Counselors for Social Justice. They are a 2024 Public Voices in Public Health Fellow of the OpEd Project and Academy Health.

Laura K. Sawyier

Wardrobe stylist and confidence consultant Laura K. Sawyier works with Fortune 500 companies and individuals, using evidence-based research within the Applied Psychology of Fashion. She helps organizations and people develop the skills necessary to use their chosen style of dress to foster a healthy self-regard around how they present themselves externally and feel about themselves internally. Laura coaches individuals on their style through closet edits, budgeted shopping, special events, travel styling, and lookbooks, among other fashion and styling-related concierge services. A nationally recognized thought leader in the Psychology of Style, Laura consults organizations and teams on confidence, influence and presence, and personal and professional branding. She also leads seminars, workshops, and keynotes on the science behind what we wear every day and how it impacts performance, moods, behaviors, and relationships. She is currently pursuing her Master's in Psychology from Harvard University. A style expert for various media outlets, her work has been featured in MSNBC, Fast Company, Travel + Leisure, Elle India, The Zoe Report, among others. Clients include Mastercard, Edward Jones, Scoular, Washington University in St. Louis, FOCUS St. Louis, Hill Investment Group, Angad Arts Hotel, Summersalt, and Sarah Flint.

Yvonne Foo

Yvonne Foo is a visionary technology leader dedicated to pioneering innovation and advancing inclusivity within the industry. Her diverse experience fuels her work in a leading financial services firm, where she spearheads innovative solutions that drive efficiency. But Yvonne's passion extends beyond the bottom line. A recognized champion for inclusivity, Yvonne promotes broader representations and actively breaks down barriers. Her impactful efforts were acknowledged with the prestigious Unsung Hero Award at the 2022 OCA Convention in Las Vegas. After returning to a full-time role following a career gap, Yvonne noticed the persistent lack of women in the technology industry. Motivated by this disparity, she is passionately committed to increasing female representation. Yvonne actively mentors emerging professionals, providing crucial guidance to help them navigate and succeed in their careers. Her dedication stems from a desire to cultivate future female tech talent and foster greater equity within the industry. As an engaging and captivating speaker, Yvonne frequently addresses audiences, sharing her journey and insights to advocate for diversity and equity in the tech industry. Her inspiring talks motivate others to create inclusive environments where every voice is valued and celebrated.