In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Alleyway Theatre
1 Curtain Up Alley
Buffalo, New York, 14202
United States

Duncan Kirkwood

Resilience Trainer

Duncan Kirkwood is the Director of the Center for Resiliency at Villa Maria College, a nationally recognized resilience trainer, and the author of the best-selling book Rerouting: Resilience Tools and Tactics. Dedicated to empowering individuals, Duncan combines military discipline with metaphysical wisdom to help people embrace resilience and face challenges with confidence and purpose. His powerful keynotes and workshops inspire lasting change, providing practical tools to enhance mindset, performance, and leadership skills. His work has impacted schools, businesses, and organizations nationwide, guiding participants to break through limits and achieve success. Passionate about service and community, Duncan offers a fresh, transformative perspective on resilience and personal growth.

Elias Martinez

Founder

Elias Martinez is the CEO and Founder of Kubed Root, the world's first indoor community garden. With a background in international business and a passion for urban agriculture, Elias has pioneered innovative approaches to indoor farming, helping transform unused spaces into thriving community gardens. As a Navy veteran and entrepreneur, he is dedicated to making agriculture accessible to everyone, regardless of location, and is the driving force behind initiatives like 'IF Kids,' a nonprofit that teaches children about indoor farming through STEM education. His work blends technology, sustainability, and community to create a more resilient food future.

Jennifer Zeitler

Executive Director

Jennifer Zeitler is the owner of Western New York’s first professional goat-grazing company, Let’s Goat Buffalo, where her herd helps landowners manage vegetation without pesticides or heavy machinery. As the Executive Director of Open Farms, a non-profit care farm, she oversees programs that connect people, animals, and nature to promote healing and balance. With over 15 years of experience in mental and occupational health services, Jennifer blends her professional background with lessons from Nature to inspire personal growth and community well-being.

Kalyn Faller

Designer

Kalyn Faller is a designer and builder who’s trained in architecture. She regularly practices hospitality in her home and local church. Kalyn deeply cares about the people in her community and the space that she gets to share with them.

Nikki Ronan

Consultant

Nikki Ronan is an organizational development consultant in Buffalo, NY. She's fascinated with how teams work and why they sometimes don't. She serves nonprofit organizations all over the world, and has her Masters in Organizational Leadership from Gonzaga University.