Chicago Shows Off With “Ideas Worth Sharing”
I had the privilege to attend the TEDxMidwest conference on May 2nd and 3rd at the Harris Theater in Chicago’s Millennium Park. Just like TED, TEDxMidwest brings together speakers from a variety of backgrounds and professions. TED prides itself on bringing forward “Ideas Worth Sharing,” and TEDxMidwest did just that, Midwest style.
Some of the highlighted speakers included: Ron Finley, Jeanne Gang, Jenn Lim, and Larry Lessig.
Ron Finley is an individual that can be identified as an “artist.” Living in South Central Los Angeles, healthy food was not readily available. Finley developed a group named “LA Green Grounds.” Together, this group has forested nearly two dozen gardens.
Jeanne Gang, founder of Studio Gang Architects, spoke of her unity of work and a strong respect for the environment. Gang’s choice in water and electrical usage is one that is environmentally efficient, along with her construction materials. She was named MacArthur Fellow in 2011. One of her most famous pieces of work, Aqua Tower, was the winner of the 2009 Emporis Skyscraper of the year.
Jenn Lim, CEO and Chief Happiness Officer of Delivering Happiness, shared ideas that encourages inspiration and happiness in work, community and everyday life. In her book, “Culture Book”, she explains how companies can create cultures that are based on each other’s happiness and still be very profitable at the same time.
Larry Lessig, legal scholar, spoke of his vision of American politics. He believes there is a corruption in the American political system due to the fact that our candidates rely on PAC funding from 60%, which comes from only 132 Americans. By doing so, this makes the White House dependent on funders. He shows how this funding process is weakening the Republic.
There are many different branches of knowledge one can obtain from listening to a variety of talks, and also, ideas that may open up new doors for the future. TEDxMidwest was an experience that I am happy I had the chance to take part in. For more information TEDxMidwest and future speakers and events, visit tedxmidwest.com.
