Thanks to a little work commitment, I found myself at the TEDx Portland event yesterday. I was there to manage the photo booth at the Waggener Edstrom table which meant I spent a day taking photos (which I love, of course) but I ALSO had the opportunity to actually watch the speaker sessions.
In a word – Inspirational.
I laughed, I cried, I sat in awe of amazing talent. I’m still taking it all in.
Unfortunately my camera was connected to the booth for the entire day so I didn’t take any of my own photos, but I will share a few highlights with some pics stolen borrowed from the interweb.
Two bouts with cancer. Brave, funny, incredible. In one very short presentation, this man managed to teach me one very important lesson – laugh at the bad guy.
The woman can sing… and write and speak. She came across as brave and vulnerable and real all at the same time.
As soon as she started speaking I knew she’d have something wonderful to say. I mean the Aussie accent gave it away. 🙂 Seriously though, she gave legitimacy to boredom. Put down the technology and just let your mind rest for a while. Now THAT’s an idea I can get behind… and I’ll try it as soon as I’m done with this blog post.
This man changed his priorities in life and lives them. Adopting “mind your own Bamboo” as a catchphrase.
Like Glee only better and in person.
PHAME (Pacific Honored Artists, Musicians and Entertainers)
Proving that anyone can have a dream and follow it (and be amazing), despite the obstacles.
Of course there was so much – discussions on everything from food to architecture to the power grid. DEFINITELY going back next year and encouraging all my friends to do the same.
Nicole Ishida Photography 