TEDxUW is the University of Waterloo's official TEDx event, and our mission is to highlight the collectivecontributions of our University to society by showcasing the ideas and achievements of change-makers in ourcommunity to a global audience. The TED platform places University of Waterloo people and ideas in front ofover 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 forrich personal and professional development experiences while enhancing the University's internationalreputation 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.