Idea from the TEDx Asheville idea people: TEDx Jr.

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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I attended the feedback session today for TEDX Asheville, and heard lots of good discussion about how next year’s version of the event can improve on the amazing first-year start held a couple of weeks ago at the Orange Peel. There was lots of constructive criticism. But the idea I like the most was the creation of a TEDx Junior event.

Imagine part, or all, of the event featuring speakers younger than 18 talking about their great ideas. Teachers could be paired with young speakers to help them work on their public speaking skills, or flesh out their ideas. Maybe there’s a sideline event where young people come together to put ideas into action.

The possibilities are endless. And as far as I can tell, nobody else is doing this under the TED umbrella. I think this is an idea that could spread like wildfire. 

Thanks, once again, to Jennifer Saylor and all the organizers, volunteers, participants and audience members who made this independent TED event a great success. I can’t wait to see what happens next.