What initially drew you to TEDx

The need for visibility and conquering the fear of it. I believe each of us has something we burn for. I have a story and a message crafted in a book. In order for it to have reach and range, I need the voice, the confidence and a stage.

What transformative idea do you hope to share or inspire?

We don’t embrace and celebrate our uniqueness enough. In order to be accepted, we blend in. We relinquish our greatest gifts - our super power - and become copies. Worse, we convince ourselves that being a copy is a blissful “normal”. Our times, our challenges crave diversity.

Why did you choose to be part of the organizing team?

 It’s about consciously choosing something worthwhile to stand for and finding like-minded people with whom to grow and accomplish set goals. I like the team, respect each member and what they bring to the table. Most of all, I believe, we are all invested in an idea worth spreading. I think we could work well together.

What does "ideas worth spreading" mean to you personally?

 It resonates with an underlying need. I am doing my part in offering hope and in so doing, contributing to a grand design and greater good.

How do you see TEDxParadeplatz contributing to broader societal conversations?

I see this event calling people with ideas out of the shadows, out of “hiding”, out of voicelessness and giving them a platform to duplicate, to reinforce, to magnify for change. City politics, trade and commerce stand to benefit from combined efforts. The Tedx voice leading other voices opens doors for new perspectives. I hope it expedites positive change.

What potential impact do you see TEDx having in Heidelberg and beyond?

 Heidelberg is bursting with gifted minds. The 2024 ratio of start-ups in a community of approximately 163k inhabitants put our city at number one ahead of Munich and Berlin!
With the success of the TEDx mission and message, Heidelberg will attract additional investors and top talent with global influence who seek to make a 360 degree impact. I can see other cities following suit.