TEDxUW is the University of Waterloo’s official TEDx event, and our mission is to highlight the collective contributions of our University to society by showcasing the ideas and achievements of change-makers in our community to a global audience. The TED platform places University of Waterloo people and ideas in front of over 300 million of the world’s finest thinkers, thought leaders, businessmen, problem-solvers, entrepreneurs, writers, activists and change-makers. While our event is organized by a cross-disciplinary team of students, staff, faculty, alumni, co-op employers, local entrepreneurs and senior university executives, we especially provide students leaders an opportunity for rich personal and professional development experiences while enhancing the University’s international reputation as a world-class academic institution. Modeled after the flagship TED Conference in Waterloo, ON, TEDx is a global phenomenon of local, self-organized events that bring together thought leaders, business executives, students and philanthropists. TEDxUW is a 700-person conference located at the heart of UWaterloo, Canada's most innovative university. Thanks to its unique geography and rich history, TEDxUW draws a vibrant melange of cutting-edge artists, scientists, entrepreneurs and thinkers.