Turning on the TEDx Light
You’ve heard the proverbial light bulb joke… “How many (name your victim) does it take to turn a light bulb?… In the case of TEDxOrangeCoast, we will really never know for sure how many people it took to turn on the light. The TED movement came first. It was created, nurtured and sustained by countless passionate people with wonderfully altruistic ideals. People who understand that making a human connection, and sharing great ideas can enlighten and give birth to change. TED pioneers were followed by equally passionate people who honored the ideals of TED and were entrusted with the concept of TEDx, where the x = independently organized events. Thousands of people have worked tirelessly to bring TEDx to local communities all over our Earth. By respecting the ideals of remaining non-political, without commercial bias or individual gain, these people have grown TEDx to more than the creators of TED could have ever imagined.
TEDxOrangeCoast rests on the shoulders of the thousands of people who have gone before. Amir Banifatemi stepped forward and sought the license for TEDxOrangeCoast. He believed that in less than six months he could bring TEDx to his community, and make a difference by encouraging a discussion about innovation without borders. Following his vision and tireless campaigning, a small group of volunteers have worked along side him doing lots of heavy lifting. An advisory board of influence makers shared their contact lists and evangelized the TEDx ideals. Companies stepped up with financial support to pay for the day. Tomorrow, twenty four speakers, and nearly 1,200 people will pause their busy lives and be present and participate in “ideas worth spreading”. And as they do, the ranks of TED and TEDx devotees will expand even more.
To all those who have gone before us, to those who have worked so tirelessly to arrange the day, to the speakers who have worked hard in preparing, to sponsors, and most importantly to those who will attend. Thank you for believing.
