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).

The Knight Stage at the Akron Civic Theater
182 S. Main Street
Akron, Ohio, 44308
United States

Ace Epps

Ace Epps is a community builder, certified facilitator and business counselor who specializes in workforce development, financial literacy, and business creation. With over 23 years of working in the nonprofit sector and community outreach, Ace also hosted a weekly radio show on WAKR for 7 years. Ace produces local podcasters through his own company called The Self Advancement Center LLC/ Be You Podcasting Company. Ace served as a Community Manager and Fellowship Director for Akron BMe Community, a national organization leading in Diversity, Inclusion and Equity. In 2019, Ace created a workforce development curriculum for a local nonprofit organization called OPEN M. From 2019 through 2022, Ace also served as the Director of Inclusive Entrepreneurship for Akron based entrepreneur hub called Bounce Innovation Hub. Ace currently serves as the Community Manager for Chase Back covering the Akron Market and released his first book in 2023.

Alejandra Treviño

Alejandra Trevino is a senior at North High School in Akron, Ohio, and an advocate for death positivity for all people and cultures. She was born in Akron, Ohio, and has lived here most of her life. She’s a very creative and free spirit who is passionate about all she does. In her free time, she enjoys knitting, crocheting, and playing guitar, most of which she taught herself. She plans on attending Kent State University in the fall of 2018 to pursue a bachelor’s degree in biology with a focus in pre-medicine. Alejandra hopes to become a forensic pathologist and mortician and to one day own her own funeral home. Although she is only 17, her ideas, moral compass, and intellectual ability speak volumes to her maturity and adaptability.

Asha “AZ” Zayn

Asha Zayn [aZ] (they/them) is a dedicated advocate with a deep passion for empowering individuals from Black, Brown, queer, and youth communities. Over the past decade, they have committed their energy and skills to creating spaces where everyone can thrive and feel valued. [aZ]’s work is rooted in a genuine desire to uplift those who are often overlooked. They have a remarkable ability to connect with people on a personal level, understanding their unique challenges and aspirations. In their recent endeavors, they have championed the growth of diverse entrepreneurs, ensuring they receive the support and resources needed to succeed. Their experience includes designing and leading programs that directly impact young people and crafting educational opportunities that are inclusive and responsive to their needs. [aZ]’s approach is always centered on making a difference in the lives of individuals, creating environments where they feel heard and supported. [aZ]’s natural talent for building meaningful relationships extends to everyone they work with. They are known for their empathetic and proactive approach, always striving to make an impact and foster a sense of belonging. With a background in program implementation and development, [aZ] combines their skills with a heartfelt commitment to social justice, driving change that reflects their deep respect for the diverse experiences and identities of those around them. Their work is a testament to their belief that every person deserves the opportunity to be heard and contribute to their community.

Dr. Ceaira Mitchell

Dr. Ceaira M. Mitchell is a proud Akron native, coming from a very closely-knit family beginning with the Morses’ and the Mitchells’ who she honors. She is the mother of four amazing children Harlem, Dax, Caave, and Cobra. She is a graduate of Akron John R. Buchtel High School, a substitute teacher with Akron Public Schools, and an alumna of The Ohio State University and National University formerly Northcentral University. A passionate reader, writer, and runner, she’s also a big fan of going to the movies to watch the latest psychological thriller, biopic, or family movie that highlights a strong moral standing. She’s currently teaching herself the Samba to learn a dance that’s distinctly focused on fun, strength, and precision. Extraordinarily goal-focused, Dr. Ceaira is committed to accomplishing her personal and professional goals, while also keeping a keen eye on giving back to her community in ways that she feels will add value and be of service to others.

Elyse Ball

Elyse Ball is the vice president of programming at Bounce Innovation Hub where she leads entrepreneurial programming, including scaling existing offerings and developing new initiatives. Elyse is passionate about helping creators and problem solvers find markets and customers for their innovations. She has 10 years of experience in customer discovery, technology licensing and supporting startup companies in the polymer science and biomedical fields. Elyse co-founded the STRIDE Accelerator to support startup companies with high tech physical products. She has served as an officer or board member for five Akron, Ohio based startups, including a SAAS startup that serves water treatment plants in 14 states and a specialty adhesives startup that exited in 2021.

Isaac Baez

Isaac Baez (pronounced (B-UY eh z) is a seasoned consultant, skilled facilitator, and founder of Visage Cultural & Diversity Consultation, LLC, with a focus on advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. He currently works with organizations such as Hope and Healing Survivor Resources Center and previously with StarkMHAR. Since July 2024, he has been the Assistant Director of Education and Training for Pathways Community HUB Institute. Isaac received his Master's in Public Health from NEOMED and his Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) certificate through the Institute of Diversity Certification. He is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Public Health at Claremont Graduate University. Isaac has conducted trainings throughout Stark and Summit Counties, including Cultural and Linguistic Competency, Cultural Humility, Language Access, and LGBTQ+ 101. His passion for working with those in need has been why he pursued a career in Public Health and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. It has also allowed him to work with different groups, such as Akron Pride Festival's Steering Committee as the co-chair of the March, Akron-Canton Latino Committee, Summit County Refugee Task Force, Ohio Alliance to End Sexual Violence (OAESV) board, and Plexus LGBT + Allied Chamber of Commerce board. He lives with his spouse, Logan, and two dogs, Charlie and Osito (little bear in Spanish).

Jaron M. LeGrair

A native of Akron, Ohio, Jaron M. LeGrair grew up singing all over the city and beyond. A singer by nature, he is also a talented teacher, professor, researcher, author, philanthropist, and entrepreneur by trade. He is the proud Founder & Director of the Jaron M. LeGrair Studio, a vocal studio that provides services and goods to singers, speakers, and professional voice users. Through his unique style of teaching and bringing vocal awareness to all, his Studio has garnered over 1.2 million followers and millions of views across social media platforms. In addition to his teaching efforts and social media acclaim, he is a sought-after teacher and coach, conducting workshops and courses around the world, as well as maintaining a clientele of Grammy, Tony, Emmy, and Dove award-winning and nominated artists across various mediums. Jaron is also a published contributing author in various textbooks and a published researcher in various academic journals. Aside from his Studio and artistic endeavors, Jaron is a teaching artist at Saint Mary’s College of California. He has also served as a Professor of Music, Voice, and/or Musical Theatre at Point Park University, Indiana Wesleyan University, and nearby at Youngstown State University. As a lifelong supporter of the arts and arts education, he, along with his two older brothers Emmanuel and Durrell, founded the Flossye J. Bass Foundation for the Arts, a scholarship fund that provides money and resources to students of color pursuing the arts collegiately. This Foundation is affectionately named after his late maternal grandmother.

Kamelia Fisher

Kamelia Fisher is the Director of Development and Engagement for the Autism Society of Greater Akron. She joined ASGA in 2023. Kamelia is a graduate of Kent State University and Malone University with degrees in Business and English. Before joining ASGA, Kamelia has served as Executive Director of several Ohio nonprofits where she managed complex initiatives, increased the organization's visibility as well as exceeded financial goals through fund development, corporate partnerships, and community engagement. Kamelia left her leadership role in the for-profit sector to dedicate her skills to improving the lives of those in her community. Her passion is helping people become strong and independent as well as helping them to improve their quality of life. Her personal goal is to help build collaborations in our community that strengthen children and families, increase opportunities for inclusion and acceptance of marginalized populations, and use her voice to advocate for others. Kamelia is currently serves as president of the Downtown Akron Kiwanis Club, president of the Portage Foundation board, president of the GASP board, an Akron Round Table board member, and president of Pantry on the Corner board. She resides in Akron.

Kenny Lambert

Kenny Lambert began his journey of sobriety on May 16, 2018. Shortly after completing treatment he was inspired to create a positive and uplifting clothing brand called "Just A Dad From Akron". He now owns and operates a store front at 937 Kenmore Blvd., Akron Ohio 44314. What started as a clothing brand has now become a movement across the world. Within the walls of his brick and mortar is much more than just a clothing store. It has become a safe place for kids in the community, an inspiring place for adults, a venue for weekly sober support meetings and so much more!

Rachel Whinnery

Rachel Whinnery is the creator of Everyday Akron, an online community hub showcasing local stories and businesses. A storyteller at heart, she’s dedicated to illuminating the spirit of her adopted hometown. Her passion for Akron extends beyond digital spaces to community involvement with organizations like Friends of the Goodyear Branch Library. When not hidden behind a laptop, Rachel can be found hiking in Summit Metro Parks or in a local café, book in hand, dreaming up her next Akron-centric adventure. Or she’s simply listening to Beyoncé while chugging iced coffee.