Acceptance was the theme of the first ever TEDx event, held in Grande Prairie over the weekend. The event, which was held at the Montrose Cultural Centre, sold out early with a capacity of 100 people. Organizer Reed Des Roche says the TEDx event was an opportunity to showcase some of the creativity and innovation he has encountered in the people of Grande Prairie.
“People are using art to try and help those with problems like addictions and mental illness. I’ve found other people who have found creative ways to help others through their grieving process. I’ve found people in fields like sociology working in places around the world such as Asia and Egypt, and they’re all centred right here in Grande Prairie.”
TED, which stands for Technology, Engineering, and Design does not officially host TED-x events, but supports them as a tool for organizations or independent businesses who want to hold similar events in their own communities.