After receiving 786 applications to speak at TEDxThirdWard 2026 (June 14th in Houston), our team has officially selected this year’s 155 Semifinalists. HERE'S THE LINK: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Q4-1AFI1i1tgZr4yXxv8AVM12hLOrJkgTfuKSD3bUO4/edit?usp=sharing All applicants received an email today, Monday, March 2nd at 5:00 PM Central Standard Time notifying you of your status. Check your spam. Here are a few interesting facts about this year’s semifinalist pool: • ~22% have previously attended a TEDxThirdWard event • ~8% have given a TEDx talk before • ~59% are based in Texas • ~41% are based outside of Texas • Representation from 15+ U.S. states • International semifinalists from 2+ countries Over 91% of this year’s semifinalists would be first-time TEDx speakers. Thank you again to everyone who applied.

This episode brings the TEDxThirdWard family together for a powerful group conversation. Hosted by event director Durrel Douglas, the roundtable includes: • Emem Washington – our speaker coach • Chris Wright – TEDxThirdWard speaker • Tiffany Yvonne – TEDxThirdWard speaker • Dr. Amber Gunner – TEDxThirdWard speaker Together, we unpack the real journey of stepping onto the TEDx stage: • The pros and cons of the process • Why a TEDx talk isn’t an Easter speech or commencement address • The transformation that happens behind the scenes • How this experience became both a challenge and a reunion This candid, fun, and wisdom-filled conversation is packed with nuggets for anyone curious about the TEDx process — or dreaming of giving a talk themselves. What stood out to you in this discussion? What questions do you have about the process?

TEDxThirdWard Finalists! We’re thrilled to introduce the next class of changemakers, storytellers, and visionaries who will take the stage at TEDxThirdWard 2026 on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in Houston, Texas. This year’s event will be a full day of ideas worth spreading, featuring five dynamic sections filled with talks that challenge, inspire, and ignite new ways of thinking. From personal transformation to social innovation, each speaker brings a powerful story and a unique perspective to the red dot. 🎟️ Tickets are now available! Don’t miss your chance to be in the room for one of Houston’s most inspiring events. ➡️ https://matchouston.org/events/2026/tedx-third-ward And if you’re already counting down to what’s next — mark your calendar! The next TEDxThirdWard Salon will take place in April 2026, continuing our mission to build a year-round platform for big ideas and bold voices. Please join me in congratulating this incredible new group of speakers who are ready to Dream. Dare. Do. #TEDxThirdWard #DreamDareDo #IdeasWorthSpreading #Houston