By Natasha Randeniya
Executive News Editor
Seth I. Pickens
Editor-in-Chief
On Nov. 2, Costa hosted the 14th annual TEDxManhattanBeach, a dynamic event centered on the theme of ‘Changemakers.’ Over the course of three sessions, speakers shared insights across diverse topics, including science, technology, and sustainability. Between sessions, attendees explored an interactive expo center featuring 30 booths hosting local businesses, non-profits, and hands-on activities.
The theme of session one was ‘Its Magical’, focusing on the awe-inspir-ing technology that will define our future. William ‘Bill’ Wesler IV spoke first, Wesler is a seasoned technologist and CEO who is working towards shaping AI to be a tool for solving complex human problems. Wesler spoke on the the double edged nature of AI, praising it for its potential to change the world for the better, but also warning of its
dangers if we lose control.
“Our relationship with technology is reaching a breaking point, and the culprit is Artificial Intelligence,” Wesler said. “AI is exponentially growing past our capacity to control it. The creators and companies cannot keep themselves accountable, it’s in our hands to make sure it’s regulated. If we slip up and allow technology to run away we have no one to blame but ourselves.”
Professional magician and Costa junior Travis Eichner lightened the mood with a more literal take on the session theme, performing a magic act focused on audience engagement. Eichner closed with a clever twist on a classic trick, inviting a volunteer to draw a random card. After scattering the deck face-down across the floor, Eichner confidently picked up the 7 of Spades, the exact card chosen. Smiling, he asked everyone in the audience to reach under their seats, where they found a dark red envelope carrying the signature card.
Observational Astronomer Vivian U followed Eichner, speaking about how the beauty of the universe is reflected in all of us. She highlighted this using her expertise in supermassive black holes, as an assistant researcher at UCI.
“The supermassive black whole is the heart of every galaxy,” U said. “It’s analogous to blood being circulated into the heart and being pumped back out, supplying oxygen. [Our telescopes] are helping us learn so much about the universe, there is so much to see in the great beyond. The sky is not the limit.
The session concluded with a talk from engineer turned storyteller, Jonmar. Jonmar pictured a brighter future for AI, where it’s used to solve social problems. He demonstrated how AI can be used to simulate human connection by having AI act out a conversation between a life-hardened landlord and young poor rentee.
“AI doesn’t relieve,” Jonmar said. “It reflects. It’s a reflection of our words, forms, and ideas. AI can simulate thousands of conversations in a matter of seconds. Think about how many disagreements could be solved in the modern era with tools like that.”
Session two’s topic was What Drives Us. It explored the disruptive ideas that can make the world a better place and the values that fuel the speakers’ passions.
Bonnie Nixon, a net zero strategist, opens the session by addressing her approach to creating “win-win-win” scenarios that benefit businesses, communities, and the environment. She spoke on how companies can make a positive impact on the world without sacrificing profit.
“It’s not just about the bottom line,” said Nixon. “It’s about finding a balance between people, the planet, and profit. When companies realize they don’t have to choose between doing good and doing well, they unlock new ways of operating that bring value to everyone involved.”
AJ Addae finished the session by discussing the intersection of design, technology, and inclusivity. Using her background in working at beauty companies, Addae explains her philosophy of “design for all,” where the goal is to create products that are accessible to people of all skin tones. She argued that when companies embrace diversity in their design processes, they create products that reflect and serve a wider range of people.
“My hope is that we can build a world of scientific research where everyone feels seen and heard,” said Addae. “It’s not just an academic opportunity, it is a great beginning for addressing racial inequities.”
Session three’s theme, The Power of Our Brains, dived into the mind’s ability to grow, adapt, and overcome. This session explored how a growth mindset drives achievement. The session concluded with the uplifting music, inviting the audience to engage in a joyful, collective experience.
Chess instructor and financial educator, Rasheme Ellington, opened the session and talked about his journey with chess, which he credits for teaching him resilience, strategic thinking, and patience. He spoke on how chess helped him develop life skills and become a disciplined learner, stressing that chess is a powerful tool for mental growth and transformative power.
“Imagine what type of leaders that we can create for tomorrow in chess, or more communities in our country, practice listening,” says Ellington. “When we plan out our next move together, and we make sure that our actions count, where we unleash our greatness and look to solve some of the most significant issues facing our society. Now that’s how you checkmate life.”
Madelyn Pieronek discussed her experiences living with ADHD, using her own experiences to describe how simple tasks can feel overwhelming. She also highlighted the common misunderstandings the challenges posed surrounding ADHD.
“ADHD is incredibly misunderstood,” said Pieronek. “Schools and workplaces see ADHD as a life hazard, something that limits working potential or ability, and they lack knowledge as to the true nature of this disorder. People with ADHD are incredibly passionate about resilience in times of crisis, determined to succeed, and creative, out-of-box leaders who will make a positive impact.”
Associate Research Proessor of Psychology at USC, Assal Habibi, explored the intersection of music and psychology, explaining how musical training impacts cognitive development. She explained how music stimulates the brain in unique ways, strengthening memory, attention, and emotional regulation.
“In a world where the power of music is appreciated, health care providers should be aware of the impact. This is not a far-fetched idea, it’s a promising reality,” says Habibi. “Music has the power to change us in ways we are only beginning to understand.”
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