Are you ready to be inspired, challenged, and uplifted? Mark your calendars because TEDxCatawba is coming to Hickory in June of 2025! This highly anticipated event is more than just a conference; it’s a celebration of ideas worth spreading. And the best part? Tickets went on sale this week! If you’re as excited as I am, you’ll want to secure your spot early.
What is TEDxCatawba?
TEDxCatawba is a local, independently organized event under the globally recognized TED brand. It works to bring together dynamic speakers, cutting-edge ideas, and passionate attendees. Next year’s event promises a lineup of thought leaders, innovators, and storytellers sharing ideas that spark curiosity, ignite change, and foster a sense of community.
Meet the Headline Speaker: Blaise Agüera y Arcas
One of the most exciting highlights of TEDxCatawba 2025 is the headline speaker, Blaise Agüera y Arcas, a leading voice in artificial intelligence and technology.
Blaise is the VP and Fellow at Google and the CTO of Technology & Society, where he leads groundbreaking research in AI, exploring neural computing, active inference, and sociality. Before joining Google, he was a engineer at Microsoft, where he invented Federated Learning. He also founded the Artists and Machine Intelligence program, a groundbreaking initiative at the intersection of creativity and AI.
With multiple TED Talks under his belt, Blaise is no stranger to the TED stage, and his insights are always illuminating. He is also an accomplished author. His book Who Are We Now? explores identity and society, and his forthcoming book What Is Intelligence? is set to be published by MIT Press in 2025.
Whether you’re an AI enthusiast, a creative professional, or just curious about the future of technology and society, Blaise’s talk promises to be thought-provoking and transformative.
Why I’m Looking Forward to TEDxCatawba
A friend of mine spoke at TedxCuracao many years ago, and even now, the words she spoke then still hold space in my mind. Ted talks can vary wildly in their topics, but are meant to be meaningful. Motivating. They are designed to make an impact in some way.
As someone who thrives on discovering new perspectives and connecting with others in the Hickory area, TEDxCatawba is the perfect opportunity to be part of something impactful. The event will explore topics that matter, which may range anywhere from technology and innovation to community building and the arts. The TEDx stage is known for its ability to make complex ideas accessible and relatable—and I can’t wait to see what this year’s speakers have in store.
What to Expect
- Thought-Provoking Talks: A diverse range of speakers sharing stories and insights that will challenge the way you think.
- Engaging Community: Meet like-minded individuals who are passionate about learning and growth.
- Inspiration to Take Home: Leave the event feeling energized and ready to make a difference in your own life and community.
Get Your Tickets Now!
Although the event isn’t until June, tickets are already on sale. Seats for TEDx events often sell out quickly, so don’t wait too long to grab yours. Visit tedxcatawba.com to secure your tickets and learn more about the event.
Join the Conversation
Have you been to a TEDx event before, or is this your first time? We’d love to hear your thoughts and what you’re most excited about! Let’s start the conversation and get ready for a day of inspiration at TEDxCatawba 2025.
See you there!