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).

Washinton International School
3100 Macomb St NW
Washington, District of Columbia, 20008
United States

Jesse Sanchez

Neurodiversity empowerment advocate

Jesse began his career working in Eye to Eye’s program team after graduating from UC Berkeley in 2011. He then embarked on a decade-long career in the high-tech industry, contributing to companies like Google, LinkedIn, and multiple early-stage technology startups. In these roles, Jesse helped leaders with people and culture transformation initiatives. Jesse designed and founded the original Eye to Eye Alumni Board where he served the organization from from 2016 – 2019 and later joined the Board of Directors from 2020 – 2023, where he served on the Program and Development Committees. In 2024, Jesse answered the call to work full-time leading a neurodiversity program organization. When Jesse is not working he enjoys spending time with his family in the outdoors.

Marcus Smith

Former NFL Player and Mental Health Advocate

Marcus Smith II’s mission is to redefine what mental strength looks like for athletes. As a veteran of the NFL and a first-round draft pick with the Philadelphia Eagles, Seattle Seahawks, and Washington Commanders, Marcus now stands at the forefront of athlete mental health advocacy. After privately battling anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges, he began sharing his story publicly to help shift the culture around performance, identity, and emotional well-being in sports. As a subject matter expert, Marcus regularly advises the NFL, multiple pro-teams, and other large-scale professional sports organizations on athlete wellness strategy and culture. He is a frequent media contributor featured by the NYT, CNN, and NFL Network, offering commentary on the evolving mental health landscape in sports. Marcus has also been invited to speak before Congress, advocating for increased mental health investment and suicide prevention among Black men and professional athletes.

Mary Napier

Genomics and Biodiversity Expert

Mary Napier is a life science strategist with a background in botany and molecular genetics. Trained at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the University of Cambridge, and the University of Chicago.

Oliver Steinglass

Creative Educator

Originally from Washington DC, Oliver graduated from Swarthmore College in 2020 where he studied Studio Art and Psychology as well as working at the College’s Makerspace for 3 years. At Design FC Oliver is involved in operations at every level of the program, from classroom sessions and jersey creation to fundraising and strategic planning. He also provides design support to our older students. Fascinated by the many intersections of soccer, art, and design, Oliver has spent the last two years working in the nonprofit world and helping bring students’ designs and stories to life through Design FC.

Sherri Sutton

Resilient Storyteller

Sherri D. Sutton is a storyteller, writer, theatre maker, international educator, and former cult member. Originally from Georgia, they now live in Switzerland, where they teach theatre and tell stories that are equal parts survival guide and a stand-up routine. They’ve written three award-winning solo shows and have three TV series in development. Sherri works globally in theatre education, including with the International Baccalaureate, and is a proud honorary life member of the International Schools Theatre Association.

Zachary Moore

Sports Marketing Insider

Zachary Moore is a seasoned sports marketing professional with over a decade of experience, specializing in retail and consumer products. Following an education at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business, Zach has held roles at leading organizations in the sports industry, such as SOCCER.COM, Major League Soccer, and most recently, Men in Blazers Media Network.

Ziyaan Virji

Social Entrepreneur and Changemaker

Ziyaan Virji is a keynote speaker, social entrepreneur, and youth strategy advisor committed to helping young people lead with purpose. He is the founder of Leaders of Today, a platform empowering 3 million+ youth through practical tools, storytelling, and global opportunities. At the age of 15, Ziyaan launched For the Menstruator, a nonprofit initiative that has reached over 25,000 people in more than 10 countries. He currently supports the global youth strategy at the International Baccalaureate, where he co-leads initiatives that serve over two million students worldwide. Ziyaan has delivered over 200+ talks in 7 countries, including at the United Nations, and the Global Education and Skills Forum. He has received multiple honors, including the Diana Award, Global Teen Leader Award, and recognition as one of Future 25 Under 25. His work bridges storytelling, strategy, and social impact, reminding audiences everywhere that tomorrow never comes, and we are the leaders of today.