In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

James A. Thomas Hall
333 Braves Drive
Upchurch Auditorium
Pembroke, North Carolina, 28372
United States

Gina Casazza

Founder of EmpowerLit

Gina Casazza is a speaker, author, entrepreneur, and the founder of EmpowerLit - Literacy & Beyond, a nonprofit igniting literacy and self-worth in children through author visits and literacy events. Weighing under 100 pounds, Gina once stepped into a Navy SEAL prep program out of sheer curiosity—to find out how strong her mindset really was. That single question sparked a life anchored in mental fitness and bold resilience. Today, she inspires thousands to stop letting fear lead, flip the script, and start asking: What if I could?

John King

Australian Aboriginal Trauma Recovery Expert

Dr. John A. King is an Australian Aboriginal trauma recovery expert, speaker, and author, internationally recognized as a top thought leader in the fight against human trafficking. A survivor of prolonged childhood sexual abuse and was involved in the Epstein and Nygard trafficking investigations, Dr. King has transformed personal tragedy into a global mission. Drawing from his lived experience and grounded in neuroscience and real-world resilience, he founded The Phoenix Collective, a trauma recovery platform that offers practical, evidence-informed tools for survivors—especially men navigating PTSD and complex trauma. With a raw, unflinching voice, he challenges cultural silence and equips individuals to turn pain into purpose. His motto: “I will rise.”

Kaden Lebray

Boxing Instructor

Dr. Kaden Lebray, 35, is a Receiver of the Lifetime Achievement Award, whereby President Joe Biden honored him with a letter and a medal in acknowledgement of his service in the community (over4,500 hours). Lebray also played professional basketball overseas in Canada and in different countries in Europe. He published his first book "Lost and Found; the Dark Testament “that highlighted the many trials he faced in college. He also published his second book titled" The Keys to Freedom ‘ a blueprint to help people pursue their passion in life. He currently owns Zuud26 Boxing Club in Wilson, NC, where boxing lessons, self-defense, and exercise classes are taught.

Kate Edwards

Physical Therapist and Orthopedic Specialist

Kate Mihevc Edwards, PT, DPT, OCS, physical therapist and board-certified orthopedic specialist who practices running medicine. She has over 15 years of experience working with runners and athletes of all levels, from recreational athletes to Olympians. She is the founder of Precision Performance and Physical Therapy in Atlanta, GA, and the RUNsource app. She is an integral part of the multidisciplinary team supporting Atlanta Track Club Elite. Dr. Edwards has served as adjunct faculty at Emory University School of Medicine and is a published author and speaker, contributing extensively to education, research and the advancement of sports medicine for runners.

Simone Knego

Speaker, Author, Podcast Host

Simone Knego is an international speaker, award-winning author of the best-selling book, The Extraordinary UnOrdinary You, and co-host of the globally ranked podcast, Her Unshakeable Confidence, alongside her daughter, Olivia. A two-time TEDx Speaker, her work has been featured on ABC, NBC, CBS, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Yahoo News. Her literary contributions have earned recognition from the National Indie Excellence Award and the NYC Big Book Award. As the creator of the REAL Method, Simone is a dedicated coach who helps ambitious working moms overcome self-doubt and reconnect with their confidence. Beyond her achievements like summiting Mt. Kilimanjaro, she is the heart of a bustling household with six children, three dogs, and one husband of 31 years.

Travis Brooks

Opioid Treatment Court Coordinator

Hailing from Maxton, NC, Travis S. Brooks is a committed leader focused on community well-being and revitalization. He holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice from UNC Pembroke, an M.S. in Criminal Justice and Public Administration from Nova Southeastern University, and is pursuing a PhD at North Carolina A&T. Beginning as a correctional officer, his career reflects a deep interest in justice system reform. After working in various locations, Travis returned home to confront challenges facing vulnerable populations. He now leads the Scotland County Family Treatment Court, a collaboration between Social Services and the NC Courts. As Opioid Treatment Court Coordinator, he works with judges, attorneys, and service providers to build individualized, evidence-based recovery plans. A staunch advocate for holistic care, Travis addresses mental health, housing, employment, and family needs to break addiction cycles and reduce recidivism, building a stronger, more resilient community.