Tríona Ryan

Care taker, Change Agent, Musician, World traveler

Educator, writer, and unapologetic evangelist for the power of words, I believe ideas can change the world. I’ve built most of my career around making sure that every brilliant, messy, courageous idea gets the support it needs to take to the stage, along with the beautiful humans that bravely birth them. As the organizer of TEDxYouth@NIS, I spend many days reminding speakers that their voices matter, my evenings wrangling runaway slide decks, and my weekends deep in the introvert cave to reflect and recharge. Our stage in inclusive and inspirational. We work hard and laugh harder; bonds made each year endure far beyond the fleeting moments of fame in the iconic spotlit red circle. I’m a ride-or-die for creating spaces where everyone, regardless of language, background, or confidence level, has the chance to speak their truth. Each year, our speakers make the world just a little more humane, a lot more inclusive, and light the sparks that nudge us forward with hope. Big conversations, brave stories, and the magic that happens when the right words land in the right moment are our why. TEDxYouth is our how.

Out of the box thinking. Goats! Inclusion. Language. Connection. Belonging. Neuro-affirmative education. Heutagogy.

Stories shape souls.

Language Arts, Linguistics, Neurodiversity

Two people came to our first TEDxYouth@NIS, but I am not (for the) weak-hearted. Now, we hit capacity long before the event approaches. Working with students to plan and organize this event each year is one of my greatest joys. Nothing builds resilience, relationship and reciprocity like authentic event organization.

Using every pot, pan and utensil in the kitchen when I cook.