Theme: Transformers: Sharing Lessons, Connecting the Past to the Present, Reimagining the Future

Join us for TEDxKingLincolnBronzeville, a half-day event dedicated to showcasing the unique and creative lives of the King-Lincoln Bronzeville neighborhood. Our theme, "Transformers: Change Agents Sharing Lessons, Connecting the Past to the Present, Reimagining the Future," invites you to explore how local stories resonate with national and global narratives and solutions.

This engaging event features five inspiring speakers and two thought-provoking conversations, each highlighting transformative experiences that connect the past to the present while envisioning a better future. In addition to the powerful talks, you'll enjoy interactive activities from our event partners, a free bookstore, live music, and plenty of fun throughout the day.

Food will be available for purchase, so come ready to nourish both your mind and body. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a community-driven experience that promises to inspire and connect.

Tickets are limited—get yours today!

The Historic Pythian Theater
867 Mt. Vernon Avenue
Columbus, Ohio, 43202
United States

Dwayne Steward

Dwayne Steward is an award-winning writer, speaker, and activist who has influenced macro level increases in access to healthcare and social services for marginalized communities, leading to community-wide decreases in health disparities. He currently serves as the Director of Inclusive Excellence, Belonging & Accessibility at OSU Wexner Medical Center, and is also the Founder and CEO of Make It Better Consulting, an agency focused on equipping nonprofits with proven tools for sustainability. Dwayne has been published in various publications on the topics of racial justice, sexual health, gender identity, and sexual orientation. He received his Bachelor of Science in Journalism from Ohio University, and his Master of Public Administration from Franklin University. He also serves his community on the boards of Harm Reduction Ohio, LGBTQ+ Victory Fund Campaign Board and Short North Alliance.

Efua Amissah-Aggrey

Efua Amissah-Aggrey is a self-taught fashion designer and the owner of Baddest, a brand dedicated to promoting a message of radical self-confidence. Efua has made a significant impact by sharing her journey and showcasing her designs at events like Passport to Fashion during Fashion Week Columbus. Additionally, she serves on the board at the 934 Gallery and is a GCAC Navigator, to stay involved in the artist community. As a speaker, she addresses the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) in the workplace and intentional allyship. Efua uses fashion as a tool for empowerment, breaking barriers of size and gender. Her journey as a first-generation Ghanaian American fuels her passion to inspire others. "The clothes are just the accessory—the confidence is all you”.

Jamie Blunt

Mrs. Jamie Blunt is a visionary and the driving force behind the Brown Girls Mentoring Program, a remarkable organization dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing space for young girls and women to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Hailing from the Eastside of Columbus, Ohio, Jamie has found her true calling in empowering and uplifting young brown girls, guiding them towards becoming the best versions of themselves. Jamie’s inspiration to create the Brown Girls Mentoring Program stems from her experiences through motherhood and her profound belief in authenticity. Jamie’s own life lessons, which have been instrumental in her personal journey towards self-actualization, form the very foundation upon which this visionary organization stands.

Judge Monica Hawkins and Dr. Joanne Lunceford

Administrative Judge Monica Hawkins of the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, Division of Domestic Relations, and Juvenile Branch has over 25 years of public service experience working with families in our community. Since taking the bench, Judge Hawkins has presided over more than 17,000 cases involving juvenile delinquency, abuse, neglect and dependency, permanent court custody matters, divorces and dissolutions, custody, visitation, child support cases, and civil protection cases. Dr. Lunceford has served as an Adjunct Professor and has been faculty through the Supreme Court of Ohio’s Probation Officer’s Training Program. Her career work is focused on the intersectionality of Race, Social Work, and Criminal Justice with an emphasis on addressing trauma and eradicating racial inequalities with service providers and service users; and her academic work, further enhances this notion with strategies to overcoming racial inequality in all systems and disciplines.

Kyle Brooks and Edwin W. Lee II

Kyle Brooks and Edwin Lee invite you on a journey to unlearn the ideologies, thought patterns and habits that get in the way of peace, freedom and joy.

Malcolm White

Malcolm White is a seasoned communications strategist and community architect, founding numerous social projects to connect people and foster a sense of village. As a Public Information Officer and New Media Strategist for the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, he enhances community engagement and celebrates Black culture. Diagnosed with autism, Malcolm champions neurodiversity and vulnerability. His work and personal journey advocate for authentic connections and societal change, inspiring others to embrace their true selves. He’s worked with G&J Pepsi, Ohio Cash Explosion, Experience Columbus, “I, Too, Sing America: The Harlem Renaissance at 100”, “Change Starts Here”, 614 Day, Orange Soda, Native Tongues, the African American Male Wellness Walk and other notable projects, driving meaningful, transformative impact in the community.

Olivia N. Atley

Olivia Atley is deeply passionate about maternal and infant health. Over the past 10 years her work and community engagement has steadily led her to this moment. Olivia is a certified full spectrum doula, herbalist, and yogi with a breadth of knowledge to share about perinatal wellness. She intentionally layers this knowledge to provide the most intentional and comprehensive support to birthing people and their families as possible. Olivia is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated that peacefully resides in Columbus, Ohio with her partner Jesse and 2 sons, Josiah-22 and Jabir- 2.