For the first time ever, TEDx came to the Treasure Coast region to inspire and educate and the Tech Hub team was there to capture it all.
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, TED Talks videos and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection. 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 it’s your participation that truly brings these events to life. Your ideas, your inspiration, and your innovation are what make TEDx: Port Saint Lucie unique.
Approximately 100 attendees from business owners and non-profit leaders, all community supporters, attended the TEDx Port Saint Lucie at the quaint River Walk Center at 600 Indian River Dr, Fort Pierce. It was the perfect venue for such an event, with beautiful scenery right off the inter-coastal just north of Fort Pierce City Marina. It is also within walking distance of the A.E. Backus Gallery and Museum, Seven Gables Visitor Information Center, the Manatee Center, and wonderful restaurants and shopping.
Key McKay, curator at TEDx PortSaintLucie
Key Mckay, a Business Development Consultant and founder of TEDx Port Saint Lucie, was the event curator. A TEDx speaker herself, Key was grateful for the opportunity to launch the event in Port Saint Lucie and is excited to keep it going annually.
“I had the opportunity to give a TEDx talk, and I see the commitment and dedication to sharing ideas.” Key McKay explained, “For me as a speaker, it made a difference, and when a door is open for you, you have a responsibility to do it for other people.”
She also encouraged the attendees to “embrace the spirit of curiosity and collaboration” and explore the possibilities that “EMERGE” from the connections we make as we learn, connect and grow. We discovered how ideas can transform communities.
Attendees enjoy the networking after the event.
Speaker Coach and Event Host was AmondaRose Igoe who is the CEO of Speaking Success Unlimited and globally recognized with insights featured on CBS, NBC, Fox News, and notable contributor to the #1 best-selling book series, Chicken Soup for the Soul. She introduced the diverse speakers which came from all backgrounds including doctors, activists, eduators and artists.
- Jonathon Almanzer: “The Power Of Ambiguity”– He is the CEO and co-founder of Chick’nCone, a rapidly growing craft food brand. He also serves as the CEO and co-founder of Ringleader, a wedding tech platform designed for wedding officiants.
- Cendie Stanford: “A Cure For Early Death” – As a descendant of those who endured historical and intergenerational trauma, advocates that learning about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their prevention is a fundamental right for every individual. She believes that humanity is entering an era of healing from these burdens. Shaped by her early life experiences and choices she regrets, her character has transformed through the revelation that adult character is developed through environment and experiences.
- Mindi Fetterman: “Strength Beyond Trauma” – Founder and Visionary Leader of The Inner Truth Project is a survivor of severe childhood abuse and assault. Her experiences fueled her dedication to community activism and leadership. Mindi graduated Magna Cum Laude in Women’s Studies from Florida Atlantic University and earned a Master of Social Work from the University of Kentucky. She is the President of the Florida Council Against Sexual Violence and actively engages in political activism and women’s organizations.
- Gina Kunadian: “Sobriety: Unlocking Freedom” – a devoted wife, loving mother, certified massage therapist, and a dedicated women’s alcohol-free sobriety coach. Her life’s mission revolves around guiding women to break free from the shackles of alcohol dependency, enabling them to realize and live their fullest potential. As the host of the podcast “Shine Within,” Gina shares inspiration and transformative insights that cultivate unwavering confidence, clarity, and vitality in her listeners.
- Pam Furr: “The Quantum Classroom” is a visionary leader in education reform who advocates for innovative solutions to transform traditional systems. With expertise in progressive teaching methods and inclusive practices, she champions personalized learning and student-centered approaches. Pamela’s leadership has driven organizational change and fostered inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and accommodate diverse learning styles.
- Jordan Bromberg: “Bridging the Healthcare Gap”- After graduating in 1981 and completing his residency in Internal Medicine at Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center, he served at Homestead Air Force Base, earning an Air Force Achievement Medal. He then moved to Port St. Lucie, Florida, where he specialized in Geriatric Medicine and ran a private practice before joining Cleveland Clinic Martin Health for 23 years. Now retired, Dr. Bromberg is the Medical Director at Volunteers in Medicine Clinic, providing free medical care to low-income, uninsured residents of Martin County.
Additional entertainment included:
- Lynn Lessel: “Spotlight Interview” – the founder of Itz Why®, LLC and IPP Inner Power Partners® (IPP®), is passionate about having as many tools as possible to help her clients and colleagues. She is a certified health coach, mastery life coach, a member of the American Board of Hypnotherapy, facilitator of Compassionate Integrity Training, Certified in Functional Body Systems, and trained under the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches (NBHWC). She has a degree in business management and marketing.
- Susi Pariott & Charles McKay: “Artist Masterpiece” – Charles McKay is a musician who plays jazz music while Susi Pariott performs a live painting.
- Nisa Guvenilir: “Special Guest Performance”- An upcoming freshman majoring in musical theater at FAU, Nisa ended the show with a miraculous singing solo.
Paella Grill chefs
The conference ended at 4:00 pm, allowing attendees to step outside next to the intercoastal for the Networking Mixerwhere you Connect with professionals, innovators, and thought leaders. Exchange ideas, build new relationships, and explore collaborative opportunities.The mixer included Live Entertainment to add a lively and engaging touch to the event, along with all-you-can-eat paella from vegetables, chicken, and seafood choices from the Paella Grill.
One of the attendees was Pharah Taylor, who wanted to hear the speakers and had always loved TED on YouTube. She was in awe to see TEDx arrive for the first time on the Treasure Coast, as it was the first one she had seen in person. “It is very special. The speakers were amazing and inspiring, and If there is another one next year, I will be here,” Taylor explained.
Check out some photos of the event here. To learn more about TEDx Port Saint Lucie and be the first to hear about 2025 dates, visit www.TEDxPortSaintLucie.com