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).

Sister Caroline Collins Theater
1100 Ellis St
San Francisco, California, 94109
United States

Aanya Shah

High School Student

Aanya is a high school student at SHCP.

Abigail Chang

High School Student

Abigail is passionate about embracing authenticity and uplifting others through connection and creativity. As a junior at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School, she actively participates in orchestra, the Principal’s Advisory Council, CyberPatriots, and more. In her free time, she enjoys drawing comics, playing the cello, and playing basketball.

Annika Daly

Teacher + Volleyball Coach

Annika Daley is an ASL teacher and volleyball coach at Sacred Heart Cathedral in San Francisco. Outside of school, Annika loves spending time outdoors—whether hiking, exploring new places, or simply enjoying fresh air. A lifelong learner, she’s always curious and excited to try new things, especially when they expand her perspective or challenge her in new ways.

Ella Mei Celecia

High School Student

Ella Celecia is a Junior at Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep and is 17 years of age. Some of her hobbies include painting like, playing soccer, listening to music, and going out on hikes. Her favorite subject are STEM related and she is most interested in science.

Eva Levi

High School Student

Eva Levi is a Junior at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory School in San Francisco. Eva has played and assistant coached volleyball from a very young age and has attended nationals several times. When she’s not on the court, she is constantly searching for new music to inspire and excite her.

Finn Lindgren

College Student

Finn Lindgren is a high school senior with a strong background in athletics, including competitive rowing and mixed martial arts. After earning a second-place finish at nationals as part of a crew team, Finn transitioned into mixed martial arts, where he discovered a deeper passion for training and competition. Dedicated to personal growth and physical fitness, he enjoys challenging himself through consistent workouts and continuous learning. Looking ahead, Finn aspires to pursue a career that involves working closely with people while continuing his commitment to martial arts training.

Josephine Kernisan

High School Student

Josephine Kernisan is a junior at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory School in San Francisco. She is an active leader involved in the Student Council and Block Club. She is also part of the Track & Field team as a hurdler and sprinter. She dedicated service hours through CSF and KISMET during the school year as well.

Katie Worster

High School Student

Katie is a junior at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory High School in San Francisco, where she leads the Advocacy in Action club and is a member of both Speech & Debate and Model UN. In her free time, she enjoys birdwatching and pursuing her interest in environmental justice.

Samantha Wai

College Student

Sam Wai was a senior at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory in San Francisco during this talk and is now a freshman in college. With a profound interest in political action and public speaking, she enjoys learning about impactful ongoings in the political world and how she can use her voice through writing and speaking to make meaningful change. Throughout her time in high school, she served as the editor-in-chief of the school newspaper, as well as the co-captain of the debate team, among other roles. She looks to the future with positivity, hoping to use her skills in writing, reading, organization, and speaking for her future career in law.

Silver Wiesler

High School Student

Silver Wiesler is a junior at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory in San Francisco. She co-founded the Fire Journal Project and Fire Forecast, two initiatives focused on fire recovery and prevention.

Skylla McArthur

High School Student

Skylla McArthur is a senior at Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory in San Francisco. She enjoys playing beach volleyball, soccer, and surfing. At school, she is part of the Speech and Debate team, a live TV host, and a member of the DePaul Scholar program.