TEDxMallardCreek

Join us November 8, 2025, for a dynamic TEDx event inspiring ideas and community connection in a clean, professional and friendly experience.

Official TEDxMallardCreek merch is here — designed to inspire, empower, and connect. Explore the collection.

Meet the Speakers

Discover the voices bringing ideas worth spreading to the TEDxMallardCreek stage.

Barrett Hopper

Barrett Hopper is a global operations leader, author, and speaker whose journey combines over three decades of business transformation expertise with the endurance mindset of a lifelong marathoner. Currently serving as Director of Operations for the Americas Materials Science Division at MKS Instruments, Barrett leads large-scale initiatives in Lean transformation, Sales and Operations Planning (SIOP), and digital innovation across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Brazil.

Barrett is the creator of Stratical™ Leadership, a groundbreaking framework that integrates strategic vision, tactical execution, and cultural engagement to drive uncommon results. This model has become a signature theme in his consulting, keynote addresses, and published works.

An accomplished writer, Barrett has authored four books, including the leadership fable Herman’s Journey of Purpose and the motivational memoir Running Into Motivation: How Running One Mile at a Time Can Help You Win the Day, Even When You Trip! His storytelling blends personal lessons from the marathon course with practical leadership insights, offering audiences a relatable and empowering approach to growth.

Barrett’s personal mantra—“One Mile at a Time”—is not just about running; it’s about life and leadership. With more than 50 marathons completed, including multiple Boston Marathon finishes and several sub-3-hour performances, he embodies endurance, grit, and focus. He has raced in major cities across the U.S. and internationally, from Boston to Chicago to Alaska, pushing his limits in diverse conditions ranging from extreme heat to subzero cold.

Passionate, authentic, and deeply committed to helping others succeed, Barrett Hopper empowers audiences to embrace both strategy and humanity, both endurance and adaptability. Whether leading a global operations team, writing a book, or coaching future leaders, he continues to inspire others to pursue their purpose—one step, one mile, one breakthrough at a time.

Carl Neely

Carl Neely is a distinguished banking executive, author, speaker, musician, and dance artist—a modern-day renaissance figure whose work and talents spans strategy, artistry, and human connection. Over the course of his career he has guided institutions on regulatory compliance and community development, helping design strategies that have directed billions of dollars in reinvestment to strengthen local economies and expand opportunity. He is a professional who also thrives in artistic and creative spaces.

A pianist for more than 25 years, Carl learned to play by ear and has led music departments that shaped the sound of community gatherings. That ear for rhythm and phrasing informs the way he listens and moves on the dance floor—where he is known for his smooth, musical style and often sought out by partners at festivals around the world. He has danced in multiple countries, training with top instructors and immersing himself in diverse cultures.

He’s also the author of two books—*Seeing the Invisible and Doing the Impossible* and You Can Make It Happen—sharing stories of resilience, perspective, and the courage to act. For Carl, music and movement are not hobbies but living laboratories for presence, connection, and flow. The same state of awareness that allows a pianist to improvise or two partners to move as one can also unlock creativity and problem-solving in boardrooms and communities.

That bridge between the technical and the deeply human sits at the heart of his TED Talk: The flow you experience in one part of your life—whether on the piano, on the dance floor, across cultures, or leading a team—can be carried into other pursuits.

Vincent D. Meeks is a seasoned operations and supply chain executive with more than three decades of leadership experience across global brands and mission-driven organizations. His career spans from managing 80,000-square-foot food distribution centers to leading thousands of employees at UPS, one of the world’s largest logistics companies.

Vincent began his career at UPS, where he rose from frontline supervisor to Director of Engineering and Director of Package Distribution. Along the way, he built a reputation for turning around struggling operations, driving multimillion-dollar cost savings, and leading large teams through periods of rapid change. At UPS, he spearheaded the deployment of new technologies that improved efficiency, safety, and customer service—helping move the company’s South Carolina district from the bottom of company rankings into the top five nationwide.

After more than 20 years at UPS, Vincent brought his expertise to the food and retail distribution sectors, including Dare Foods and Dollar General, where he oversaw complex logistics networks and guided teams of hundreds through transformational growth. He later lent his talents to the nonprofit sector as Distribution Manager at Harvest Hope Food Bank, ensuring vital resources reached families in need. Today, he serves as Distribution Warehouse Manager for Ericsson Wireless Solutions, where he oversees operations across North America.

Vincent holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, along with professional certifications in Six Sigma, Supply Chain Management, and Logistics. Whether leading thousands of employees or speaking on stage, Vincent brings a mix of insight, humor, and real-world experience.

Vincent Meeks

Leah Marone

Leah Marone is a psychotherapist, Yale Clinical Instructor, and corporate mental wellness consultant with over 20 years of experience. She has conducted more than 20,000 therapy sessions and specializes in supporting high-achievers facing imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and performance anxiety.

Leah has worked extensively with organizations on burnout prevention, boundary setting, and emotional intelligence, delivering her widely praised Support, Don’t Solve framework to leaders nationwide. A former Division 1 athlete, she brings a unique perspective to resilience and performance. Her upcoming book, Serial Fixer: Break Free From the Habit of Solving Other People Problems, explores the hidden patterns of over-functioning and offers a path to break free from burnout and anxiety.

Kimberly Coleman

Tamara Smith is a nationally recognized healthcare executive with over 20 years of experience in developing and driving community health strategies and strategic portfolios. As the National Vice President of Health Equity & Social Impact at Humana, Tamara serves as a leading national voice on health equity and social determinants of health, providing strategic direction for Humana’s health equity efforts across the enterprise.

Prior to joining Humana, Tamara served in various leadership roles in Corporate Health, in the Arts, and most recently as the Vice President of Community Health & Engagement at Novant Health.

Tamara is a DrPH candidate at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, where she is focusing her research on organizational strategies to advance equity. Tamara has served as an active member of the Board of Directors for the Charlotte Rescue Mission, the Centers for Exceptional Children and the Winston Salem Urban League.

She also highlights the work of health equity practitioners across the nation through her podcast, Our Journey to Equity, and was named national Top 100 Under 50 Leaders by Diversity MBA Magazine. Tamara earned a Bachelor of Science in Health & Exercise Science from Wake Forest University and a Master of Science in Health Promotion & Management from Nebraska Methodist College.

Tamara Smith

Kim Coleman is a theatre educator, comedian, playwright, and laughter advocate who believes humor is not just entertainment, it’s a powerful strategy for learning, healing, and connection. With over 25 years of experience teaching Theatre Arts to K–12 students, Kim specializes in Creative Drama, a process-centered approach that emphasizes creativity, empathy, and self-expression over performance.

A published playwright, Kim founded and directed a professional touring company that integrated theatrical performance into writing curriculum for schools across North and South Carolina. Her innovative approach led to teacher workshops and district trainings that helped educators use theatre as a tool for engagement and growth. Kim later designed workshops and trainings, retreats and workshops for corporate America as well.

Kim has also written numerous articles about the importance of laughter in our life, leadership and relationships. Her artistic career extends beyond the classroom. Kim has appeared in commercials, industrials, and music videos, made for tv movies, and pursued advanced training at The Second City and Improv Olympic in Chicago.

She toured with theatre and improv groups, refining her craft and deepening her belief in laughter as a universal connector. In Houston, Kim worked with Jeanette Clift George, founder of A.D. Players, the nation’s oldest professional Christian theatre, and was invited to join the Lakewood Church drama team, where she began performing stand-up comedy under the direction of Wendell Burton, former American actor and television executive. Recognizing her talent, Burton connected her with Savage and Associates Talent, launching Kim’s professional comedy career.

As a clean stand-up comic, Kim has toured nationally and internationally, performing for clients such as BP Oil, Coca-Cola, ESPN, Lowe’s, NASCAR, PBS, Bank of America, WELLS FARGO. McDonald’s, NBA, NFL and numerous conferences and festivals across the Southeast.

She is a certified Laughter Yoga Instructor and has spoken at events including the National Four Square Women’s Conference, International Women’s Day and the Lake Norman WINS Conference, empowering individuals and organizations to harness laughter for resilience, creativity, and community.

Fitzgerald Light

Fitzgerald Light II is the founder of FlightSuite.ai, an AI and automation consultancy helping organizations harness technology with purpose. Recognized as one of Charlotte’s “30 Under 30” leaders, Fitz has built his career at the intersection of entrepreneurship, innovation, and community impact.

Through FlightSuite.ai and his broader work as a speaker, Fitz equips audiences with the tools to embrace AI without losing the human edge, emphasizing how innovation, creativity, and human values can co-exist in the future of work. His talks, including signature sessions such as “The $250M AI Secret” and “Unfollow Me,” inspire individuals and organizations to rethink leadership, business, and technology in ways that create lasting impact.

From startup founder to thought leader, Fitz’s journey reflects resilience, vision, and a commitment to using technology to empower communities. He has delivered keynotes and panels at universities and Community and Entrepreneurship Symposiums and now brings his story and insights to the TEDx stage.

Dr. Kareem Puranda

Dr. Kareem Puranda is a former law enforcement officer turned Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor and Certified Clinical Addiction Specialist. His career was shaped by the emotional toll of policing, burnout, trauma, and shame, which he now helps others overcome.

After leaving the force, he founded Self-Talk Counseling & Consulting, PLLC and the nonprofit Achieving Success On Purpose, Inc. He provides therapy, emotional intelligence training, and resilience coaching to underserved youth, first responders, and trauma-impacted professionals. His mission is to break the stigma, integrate emotional wellness into law enforcement, and ensure those who protect others are also equipped to protect themselves.

Damion Harmon is a licensed clinical mental health counselor, public speaker, and founder of The Couch 704—a mental health platform committed to advocacy, education, and wellness for underserved communities. With nearly 20 years of experience, Damion has worked across outpatient therapy, residential treatment, and community mental health. He specializes in trauma-informed care, grief counseling, and emotional regulation.

As a board member of Black Male Therapists of Charlotte, Damion actively supports the destigmatization of mental health in Black and marginalized communities. He also trains clinicians, speaks nationally, and develops culturally responsive content to bridge clinical knowledge with everyday human experience. Through these experiences, he has developed a healing-centered perspective that challenges how we define grief and expands how we talk about loss.

Damion Harmon

Schwanna Jenkins

Schwanna Jenkins is a licensed mental health professional, epilepsy advocate, and passionate storyteller whose work bridges science and soul. With over a decade of experience in clinical settings and community outreach, Schwanna has become a powerful voice for individuals living with neurological conditions—especially those whose stories often go unheard. Her advocacy is rooted in personal connection, cultural sensitivity, and a fierce commitment to dismantling stigma through education and empathy.

Schwanna’s approach blends clinical expertise with emotional authenticity, using narrative as a therapeutic tool to foster healing and resilience. Whether she's leading support groups, speaking at conferences, or mentoring young professionals, Schwanna champions the idea that vulnerability is strength and that every story deserves space.

She believes that true healing begins when we listen without judgment and respond with compassion. Through her work, Schwanna is transforming public perception of epilepsy and mental health—one courageous conversation at a time.

Frankie Pickens

Frankie Pickens grew up in Easley, SC after graduating from high school she moved to Brooklyn, NY where she lived for 4 years prior to moving to Charlotte, NC in 1984. Frankie has a passion for philanthropy and a commitment to spiritual growth and development.

Previously, she served 20+ years in the Human Service field where she worked as a Substance Abuse Counselor and Supervisor. She helped start one of the first programs in NC to provide long-term Substance Abuse Treatment for pregnant women in a residential setting. She also served as a Homeless Shelter Specialist for 3+ years. In 2007 her entrepreneurial spirit led her to pursue a different career path, and she became a licensed Real Estate Broker where she has been given the opportunity to assist and support individuals/families navigate their Real Estate investments goals that move them forward on their journey of living a life of their dreams.

Frankie had the privilege to be one of the founding members of two churches, and in 2013 she became an Ordained Minister. Frankie received her Bachelor of Science in Human Services from Gardner Webb University and later attended Hood Theological Seminary.

Ronke Adetolu is a speaker and leadership strategist passionate about advancing professional development and wellness. She founded LeadWise, a training and consulting firm that helps organizations strengthen leadership, elevate performance, and create healthier workplace cultures.

Through her speaking, Ronke partners with nonprofits and organizations to expand access to leadership growth and well-being. As Quality Assurance Manager at SC Johnson Professional, she ensures product safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence.

Her message inspires audiences to act with courage, clarity, and purpose and say “YES” to their future.

Ronke Adetolu

Wendy Davenport

Wendy Davenport brings over 20 years of experience in healthcare, serving in Intensive Care, the Emergency Department, and as a hospital supervisor. Her career on the front lines of medicine shaped a deep commitment to healing and resilience.

Today, Wendy is training to be a spiritual leader and is creating Heart of Echo, a center devoted to love, connection, and transformation. Her work bridges science, spirituality, and lived experience to show how our thoughts shape reality. In her TEDx talk, The Seeds We Plant, Wendy shares how the power of love and intention can transform lives.

John Burton Jr

John Burton Jr. is a nationally sought-after faith-based therapist, public leader, and strategist whose work bridges the worlds of mental health, spiritual formation, and cultural influence. With academic credentials from Winston-Salem State University, Fuller Theological Seminary, and Harvard University’s Kennedy School, he offers a rare fusion of theological depth, clinical expertise, and public impact.

For over two decades, he has empowered individuals, couples, corporations, and communities—guiding them through life’s complexities with compassion, clarity, and conviction.

Honored by institutions like Winston-Salem State University, SouthPark Magazine, the 1865 Company, and Who’s Who in Black Charlotte, Burton’s voice resonates across sacred and secular spaces alike. His messages are urgent, relevant, and enduring to audiences young and old.

Keynote Speakers

Trina Boyd is the founder of Women In Power, an entrepreneur, and business coach with more than 11 years of experience helping women start and scale thriving businesses. She specializes in helping women win grants and recently secured a $20,000 grant for her own business through SouthPark Community Partners.

Trina is also the founder of a multi-million-dollar business that serves mentally ill children in the state of North Carolina. Through Women In Power, she has built a national community that provides training, mentorship, and high-impact events, empowering women to access funding, grow their businesses, and lead with confidence.

Trina Boyd

Dr. Kingson Njoku

Dr. Kingson Njoku, DM. MSc, MBA, PGD, FIIAS, is a distinguished expert in police and law enforcement leadership analytics, organizational management, homeland security, and emergency management. Author Police professionals And Leadership Characteristics: The Interaction Effects and the accompanied workbooks for faculty and Students.

He currently serves as a faculty member in the Department of Criminal Justice and law Enforcement Administration at Colorado State University Global Campus in Aurora, where he teaches courses in Terrorism, Homeland Security, Intelligence, Risk Analysis and Mitigation, Foundations of Emergency Management, Disaster response, Recovery and Critical Infrastructure, among others.

Previously, he held positions as deputy Director of Intelligence and governance and director of Advancement at the International Institute for African Scholars in Fayetteville, North Carolina. As the co-founder and program director of learning, leadership Circle International in Charlotte, NC he specializes in community leadership, youth mentorship, ethical governance and non-profit administration.

Dr. Njoku is currently the chairman of Education Initiative and Scholarship for African Brothers Abroad Organization, a socio-cultural organization that promotes cultural integration and social consciousness in our communities. A loving husband and a father of two boys, Dr. Njoku is deeply committed to fostering ethical leadership worldwide.

Meet Our MC

Sharon Shields is a dynamic voice artist and seasoned event host who knows how to connect with an audience—whether behind the mic or on stage. With a background shaped by Toastmasters and professional voiceover training through Voice Coaches, Sharon brings warmth, clarity, and charisma to every performance.

Her journey spans multiple voiceover projects and live hosting engagements, where she’s become known for her ability to make people feel seen, heard, and inspired. Sharon’s passion lies in using the power of voice to tell stories that matter and spark meaningful conversations.

At TEDx, she brings not just a voice—but a presence. One that invites listeners in, encourages reflection, and leaves a lasting impression.

Sharon Shields

🔴 Speaker Blocks 🔴

• Barrett Hopper - Faceplant Forward: Failing on Purpose

• Leah Marone- What Serial Fixers are Really Avoiding in Relationships

• Dr. Kareem Puranda- Reframing Backup: From Tactical to Emotional

• Ronke Adetolu- The Future I Wanted Was Waiting — But I Wasn’t

• Damion Harmon- A Loss is a Loss

Speakers are listed in the order they will present. Please note that block times are approximate.

Speaker Block 1

11:40 am - 12:55pm

• Schwanna Jenkins- Epilepsy Isn’t Just Medical: Shifting The Lens Whole -Person Advocacy

• Kimberly Coleman- Laughter Is A Strategy

• Fitzgerald Light: Unfollow Me: Why the Cure for Anxiety Isn’t More Approval—It’s More Authenticity

• Carl Neely- Your Next Breakthrough Isn’t Harder Work. Its Flow

• Tam Smith: Health in Harmony: Rethinking Health Equity through JOY

Speaker Block 2

1:25 pm - 2:38 pm

• Vincent Meeks: Courage in Brown: Deliver Leadership

• Wendy Davenport: “What If Your Thoughts Are Seeds?”

• Frankie Pickens, BS, ABR, SRS,CREN: The Body Speaks Louder Than Memory: Healing Trauma Without Language!

• John Burton: True Excellence Isn’t the Absence of Flaws, but the Presence of Grace

Speaker Block 3

2:55 pm - 3:53 pm

🎯Support the Movement

TEDxMallardCreek is a 100% volunteer-run event — a labor of love brought to life by dedicated community leaders, creatives, and visionaries who believe in the power of ideas worth spreading.

Your sponsorship or donation helps us produce world-class TEDx experiences — from stage design and filming to giving local voices a global platform.

Every contribution makes a direct impact — and your business or organization could be featured across TEDxMallardCreek digital channels, event screens, and materials seen by thousands of engaged thinkers, leaders, and changemakers.

🎯 Support here → TEDxMallardCreek Event | TEDxMallardCreek

This Event Is Officially SOLD OUT

The response has been extraordinary — a powerful reminder of how deeply ideas can connect us.

Attendance is strictly limited to guests with confirmed Eventbrite tickets.

While registration is now closed, you can join our waiting list to be notified if additional seats become available.

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