TEDxMacatawa returns with 'Embracing Uncertainty' theme, diverse speaker lineup
TEDxMacatawa will return to West Michigan on Tuesday, Oct. 8, from 1-5 p.m. at the Jack Miller Auditorium at Hope College.
HOLLAND — TEDxMacatawa will return to West Michigan on Tuesday, Oct. 8, from 1-5 p.m. at the Jack Miller Auditorium at Hope College.
The event features nine speakers presenting ideas ranging from sustainable community planning and healthcare advocacy to life transitions and youth leadership, all centered around this year's theme "Embracing Uncertainty." The community can learn more and register at tedxmacatawa.org.
TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection. These events are branded TEDx, where each event is independently organized, with the TED Conference providing general guidance.
"More than ever, we are saturated in a news environment that creates a deep sense of uncertainty," said Vince Boileau, TEDxMacatawa license holder. "Each of our speakers will share stories and strategies for embracing uncertainty and discomfort and moving forward through it."
2025 speaker lineup:
Alison Major will present "The Map Is Not the Journey," drawing from her experience leaving conventional life to sail 9,000 nautical miles with her family while working remotely and homeschooling. The author of "Remote Work Afloat" and founder of Loop Life Academy will explore finding meaning when life goes off-script.
Dan Broersma, Holland's first Sustainability Manager with over 25 years of experience in environmental sustainability, will present "Implementing Practical Sustainability." As author of "Practical Sustainability," he helps individuals, organizations, and communities develop sustainable opportunities and policies, believing that faith, community, and sustainability are interconnected.
Har Ye Kan, a community planning and design consultant, will discuss "Cultivating a Framework Thinking Mindset for Thriving Communities." As a bridge builder and history buff, she loves learning about different communities and helping them discover possibilities for visionary and achievable outcomes.
Jill Ver Steeg, president and CEO of Evergreen Commons, will deliver "From Bacon to Biotech – How Reimagining What We Avoid Can Change Aging." Her mission focuses on transforming how we experience aging, helping older adults live with purpose, vitality and joy.
Kelsey Simpson, a dedicated student and volleyball athlete at West Ottawa High School, will share her perspective on youth leadership and community building. She is a key member of I AM Academy, where she collaborates with other young leaders to drive positive change and build community among Black and multiracial youth.
Luke Burgis, bestselling author of "Wanting: The Power of Mimetic Desire in Everyday Life" and Founding Director of The Cluny Institute, will discuss "Lose Your Tribe – How to Belong Without Losing Yourself."
Robert Heath Sr., a former U.S. Marine Corps Officer and nationally recognized leadership strategist, will present "Braver Not Safer," sharing insights from his work coaching leaders from startups to Fortune 500 companies.
Stephanie Wright, a healthcare advocate with over two decades of experience in clinical operations and dental systems, will tackle "The Illusion of Coverage," addressing insurance-driven barriers in healthcare. She works at the intersection of policy, technology, and patient care to advance equitable, provider-led healthcare.
Zach Tolan will explore how symbolic storytelling in music can unlock creativity, boost learning, and activate deep intelligence in children. His discoveries in musical symbolism are reshaping how we teach, interpret, and experience music.
The event will be hosted by Jair Driesenga, vibe and inspiration director at Holland's historic Park Theatre, known for his ability to create connected, inspired experiences.
TEDxMacatawa creates a platform for local ideas with global impact, bringing together the community's intellectual and imaginative contributions toward shaping tomorrow. The volunteer-driven event operates under the TEDx program, which allows communities worldwide to organize local TED-like experiences.
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, Oct. 8
- Time: 1-5 p.m., followed by afterglow celebration until 7 p.m.
- Location: Jack Miller Auditorium, Hope College, Holland
- Tickets: $35 general admission, $50 with event T-shirt
- Registration: Available now at tedxmacatawa.org
For more information, visit tedxmacatawa.org.
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