A few weeks ago, I had the incredible opportunity to give my first TED-Ed talk in New York, and I’m still feeling the thrill of standing on that stage! As I looked out into the audience, I knew this was more than just another speech; it was a moment to share a piece of my heart, my beliefs, and my journey to amplify women’s voices in media.
Preparing for this talk was both exhilarating and challenging. I wanted to bring more than just words to the stage—I wanted to spark conversation, inspire change, and encourage the young women in the audience to see their own potential as leaders, creators, and storytellers. Crafting my talk took weeks of refining my message, drawing from my personal experiences, and leaning on my passion for women’s empowerment. I thought back to everything that had shaped my path, from starting Empower Girls to my own struggles with mental health, to the incredible women I’ve met through my podcasts who have influenced my outlook on life.
In my talk, I shared stories and insights on the barriers women still face in media—both as viewers and creators—and how those challenges motivated me to create platforms like the Talk of Fame and The Mentor Movement Podcast. One of the biggest points I emphasized was the power of seeing women thrive in spaces where they’re often underrepresented. When young girls see women at the forefront of media, in roles of influence and leadership, they understand that their voices matter. I believe every woman who speaks up, whether in journalism, entertainment, or online, becomes part of a bigger movement, inspiring the next generation to do the same.
One of the best parts of this experience was meeting others who share this same passion for equity in media. After my talk, I connected with women who are also working to change the media landscape, and I felt an incredible sense of community and shared purpose. I even met young girls who were inspired by the message, asking me questions about how they could follow a similar path. Knowing that my words could spark something in them—maybe even a first step toward pursuing their own dreams—was a powerful reminder of why I do what I do.
This experience has only strengthened my dedication to Empower Girls and my mission to bring more diversity and inclusion to media. I believe that everyone, no matter their background, should see themselves represented and have the freedom to tell their own story. As I move forward, I’m more inspired than ever to create spaces where young women can learn, grow, and be seen.
Thank you to everyone who supported me through this journey! The TED-Ed stage was a dream come true, but it’s just the beginning. To any young women out there reading this: your voice is powerful, your story matters, and you deserve to be heard. Let’s keep working together to make our mark on the world!
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