One of the things that makes TEDxThirdWard different is that we actually build community. This will be the first opportunity for semi-finalists and volunteers to meet each other in person, and honestly, that’s where a lot of the magic begins. The relationships and conversations that start here are part of what makes the big event so special. What we create together on June 14, 2026 doesn’t just happen on stage. It starts with moments like this. So we’re hosting two casual Meet + Hang opportunities. No formal program. Just conversation, community, wings or drinks, and a chance to get to know the people who may end up sharing the TEDxThirdWard stage together. If you’re feeling brave, we might even hear a few talk ideas in the wild. PLEASE RSVP IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND. Option 1 Sunday, March 22, 2026 3:00–5:00 PM STUFF’d Wings (RSVP HERE) Owned by Semifinalist Jarrod De’Von Rector Option 2 Sunday, March 29, 2026 3:00–5:00 PM The Mood Room (RSVP Here) Owned by Semifinalist @Carlos Hernandez Come to whichever works best for you. If you plan to attend, please RSVP at the link below so we have a rough headcount. Looking forward to seeing some of you there. Also, there are still a few slots left for the $397 Virtual Speaker Lab

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.

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

TEDxThirdWard Speaker Selection Update Hey! I wanted to take a minute to share where we are in the selection process and what I’m seeing so far... And, I wanted to try out the "Live" feature here on the Skool platform. We’ve had an incredible mix of ideas this year. People from everywhere with stories that genuinely make you pause and think. I’m proud of every single person who took the step to apply. As I’ve gone through the talks, I keep seeing three main groups emerge: Group 1: You’re ready for the stage. Your idea is clear, unique, and well-communicated. There’s nothing else quite like it. Group 2: You’re almost there — your idea is strong, but maybe others are touching similar topics, or you’re one “aha” away from full clarity. With a bit more refining and practice, you’re going to shine. Group 3: You’re still in the early part of the journey. That’s not a bad thing — it just means there’s more space to grow. Some folks here need more structure, clarity, or help bringing the message to life. You’ve already done the hardest part: starting. There will be 25 speakers total, divided into five groups throughout the day — 9 AM, 10:30, 1, 2:30, and 4. Once we finalize the list, we’ll start sending confirmations and callbacks. We’re also planning Media Day on 11/15 in Houston so finalists can capture rollouts and promo content for their announcements the following week. And as for this Skool community — it’s here to stay. Feel free to invite others. We’re building out this free community in a more intentional way. If you check the calendar, you’ll see we’re hosting a virtual Speaker Lounge every Thursday at 7 PM CT — a relaxed space to connect, share ideas, and talk about what it really takes to get stage-ready. Some weeks we’ll break down great TEDx talks, other weeks we’ll do live feedback sessions or invite past speakers to share how they shaped their big idea. We’re also developing a paid coaching circle for those who want weekly accountability and deeper skill-building. And even if you don’t make it to the January stage, there’s another opportunity — TEDxThirdWard Salon is coming in April 2026 — so stay engaged, keep refining, and use this community to get sharper every week.

It is such an exciting day for every time semi finalist who submitted their final application to TedXThirdWard today! But beyond the finalist reveal in November and the joy and exhilaration I know we will all share in hearing the stories of our fellow community members, I am most excited about the connections that I’ve made through this experience. I hope to stay in touch with as many people as possible through LinkedIn or social media, and I can’t wait to see what everybody does in the future! This is a forum rich with talent, hope, and kindness. ❤️