Algoma U's first TEDx event a 'resounding success'

NEWS RELEASE
ALGOMA UNIVERSITY
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Algoma University recently hosted its very first TEDx event. TEDxAlgomaU- Free Your Genius was the brainchild of an extraordinary group of students and faculty who had a vision to showcase success and the powerful and unconventional ways different people attain it. 

This student-organized event was a resounding success, selling out within days of ticket sales opening. Dedicated students from a variety of programs came together to create something powerful. And they did. With months of meticulous planning, this outstanding group of students created an evening that brought guests on an intellectual journey drawing from the raw experiences of the speakers whose roots stem in Northern Ontario. 

“Our sold-out TEDxAlgomaU event was an unforgettable success. From thought-provoking talks to newly forged connections, our community of scientists, professionals, students, and curious citizens came together to free their collective genius,” shared Tier II Canada Research Chair and Biology Professor Dr. Nirosha Murugan. “None of this would have been possible without our strong team of volunteers of mostly AlgomaU students, alumni and community partners. It is so inspiring to see so much talent and inspiration right here in our own backyard! Thanks to everyone for attending and proving that Sault Ste. Marie is a place where ideas can take root and flourish.”

The theme “Free Your Genius” showcased each speaker's unique and unconventional road to success, providing compelling and thought-provoking talks in the spirit of ideas worth spreading. Audience members were wowed by six extremely different but engaging talks that explored the themes of responsibility, choice, imperfection, genes, courage and the idea of being uncomfortable. 

“What a blessing! To share through the power of story-telling! Chi-miigwech for the opportunity to spread some magic on how I understand the words 'free your genius',” shared speaker with the Talk Theme: Choice, Elizabeth Edgar-Webkamigad, Director of Health and Human Services, Baawaating Family Health Team. “To know there is always someone watching, to know that you might inspire when you share something so personal is absolutely amazing! To be asked to talk about my own story; 'my unconventional road to success’ has been a great reminder of my good life! To think about the gift of CHOICE, that we do have it and what specifically CHOICE means to me. It surely has been an affirmation of something my parents have nurtured all along my life. I have been blessed to know, understand and make choices celebrating the love of the good life~Mino bimaadiziwin.”  

Algoma University encourages those interested to keep the conversation going- follow TEDxAlgomaU on Twitter and share in engaging conversation about this and other TEDx events. 

The entire TEDxAlgomaU organizing committee would like to extend a sincere note of gratitude to all event sponsors, volunteers, community partners, attendees and supporters. Without such incredible support, this event would not have been possible. 

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