Stories Beyond Boundaries – A TEDxYouth Event
Written by Maris Jones, AHS graduate student
After two successful runs, TEDxYouth@ChavisWay is back for its third year. On April 12th, the event will feature youth leaders aged 13 and 19 from across the Research Triangle to share ideas, foster dialogue, and inspire change about important issues. The event is organized by Maru Gonzalez, a Department of Agricultural and Human Sciences associate professor and extension specialist, in collaboration with Christy Byrd, an associate professor in the Department of Teacher Education and Learning Sciences. Other members of the collaboration team include AHS graduate student Maris Jones and staff from Wake County 4-H, Alliance Health, #PassTheMicYouth, and Raleigh Parks and Rec.
This year’s theme—Stories Beyond Boundaries—celebrates the promise and power of youth to tackle complex issues, build bridges, and be a catalyst for social change. Over 60 individuals applied to speak or perform at this year’s event, with 12 applicants being chosen as speakers and four being chosen to perform. The youth speakers will be covering a myriad of topics, including youth civic engagement, the importance of early literacy, and digital detoxing. Performances include Spanish-language spoken word poetry, a traditional Chinese fan and sword dance, stories from youth representing Refugee Hope Partners and the Literacy and Community Initiative, and the Alpha Omega Step Team. In addition to engaging talks and performances, TEDxYouth@ChavisWay will feature a gallery of artwork by local youth and activities meant to nurture community, collaboration, and the power of storytelling to transcend boundaries. The event will be held at the John Chavis Memorial Park Community Center.
Aditi Ediga, a Panther Creek High School sophomore, will speak about the importance of digital detoxing. Ediga states, “The theme of my talk focuses on ways we can break free from digital noise and tune in to our minds to reconnect with ourselves. When we unfollow the digital noise, we follow our hearts and passions. We build groundbreaking impact and learn that the digital silence that follows unlocks our true potential.”
Zara Miller, a senior at Durham Academy, will talk about youth civic engagement and recognizing the power that young people have to redefine political participation. Miller said, “Political participation is more than just voting—it’s about ensuring young people have the tools, knowledge, and confidence to engage in meaningful ways long before they turn 18. I believe this event is a powerful space to spark conversations and inspire action from adults and youth, and I’m honored to contribute to redefining what civic engagement looks like for the next generation.”
With the largest number of speakers this event has had yet, TEDxYouth@ChavisWay’s third year promises to be an inspiring and impactful event, highlighting the voices of youth leaders from the Triangle Area who are tackling some of today’s most pressing issues. As the speakers and performers share their unique perspectives, they are not only amplifying their own voices but also empowering others to think critically, engage deeply, and act boldly. TEDxYouth@ChavisWay continues to be a vital platform for the next generation of changemakers, and it is sure to leave a lasting impact on all who attend.
To learn more about TEDxYouth@ChavisWay, visit the event’s website.