Speakers chosen for this year’s TEDxMcAllen event

MCALLEN, Texas – The 16 speakers for this year’s TEDxMcAllen have been announced.

They are:

1. Yaw Sam – Marketing/Social Media
2. Dr. Lisa Chapa – Medicine/Cancer Research
3. Bobby Pulido – Music/Culture 
4. Dr. Liza Cardoza – Stereotypes/Expectations
5. Amanda Puryear El – Literature/Poetry
6. Dr. Joy Esquierdo – Bilingualism
7. Rodrigo Moreno Fernandez – Film/Creativity
8. Roxanne Ramirez – Grief/Mental Health
9. Silvia Vera Huesca – Theater/Biculturalism 
10. Mark Hanna – Economic Development 
11. Christian Von Preysing – Journalism and Wildlife
12. Dr. Matthew Atterberry – Disabilities 
13. Luis Solis – Sports
14. Pedro Villagran – Leadership 
15. Dr. Michael Barnes – Wealth Gap
16. Gary Montelongo – Intergenerational Communication

Organizer Marcos Silva says that while the 16 speakers have been chosen, their topics might shift.

The event takes place at South Texas College’s Student Union on the Pecan Campus on Oct. 29. It is titled “Unbound.” Because of space limitation, only 250 applicants will be selected to attend.

A Speaker Reveal Party was held last week at Tabu Bistro Lounge in McAllen. At the event, Silva said that while the 16 speakers chosen for this year’s TEDxMcAllen come from different backgrounds, they share one thing in common.

“This year’s ‘Unbound’ event was really put together with the intent to highlight individuals in the community who have not stayed in their lane, who have pushed the envelope, who have challenged the status quo and stereotypes that exist around us,” Silva said.

TED is a nonprofit that believes powerful ideas, powerfully presented, move people to feel something, to think differently, to take action.

Marcos Silva

Silva said TEDxMcAllen has established itself as a premier platform for the exchange of ideas within the community. He said that building on the success of previous editions, this year’s theme, ‘Unbound’ aims to inspire participants to think differently, challenge the status quo and drive positive change. 

“This year’s event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience featuring a diverse lineup of speakers who will share innovative ideas, powerful stories and thought provoking insights,” Silva said.

“Attendees can look forward to a day filled with engaging talks, interactive sessions and networking opportunities that foster creativity and collaboration.”

Editor’s Note: Click here to apply to attend TEDxMcAllen 2024.

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