Johns Creek, GA, May 5, 2026: On April 25, 2026, TEDx Johns Creek 2026 took place at PHASE Events, bringing together a vibrant community of thinkers, creators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers for a day centered around powerful ideas, authentic storytelling, and meaningful human connection.
Organized under the global TEDx program, designed to spark “ideas worth spreading,” this year’s theme, EVOLVE, set the tone for an inspiring day of reflection, growth, and transformation.
In her opening address, Divya Anand, licensee and lead curator of TEDx Johns Creek, emphasized the deeper purpose behind the platform.
“TEDx is more than a stage—it’s a space where ideas come alive through people. When we come together in one room, we don’t just listen—we connect, we reflect, and we evolve together,” Anand said.
She also noted that identifying authentic voices and curating a meaningful lineup of speakers grounded in real-world experiences remains central to the TEDx curation process.
The organizing team included Rajini Stephen Britto, Jothsna Kethar, Sudha Rajasekaran, Yasha Desai, and Sandhya Rakesh, whose collective effort brought the event to life. Harshit Chaturvedy contributed as the website designer, helping strengthen the event’s digital presence.
The official speaker lineup featured voices from diverse backgrounds, each bringing a unique perspective on growth, identity, leadership, creativity, and resilience. Speakers included Krish Makhija, Nived Lakshman, Dr. Karin Luise, Sagar Soni, Bre Bardenwerper, Joe Mittiga, Ninaad Lakshman, Sirin Yelmen Oktar, Dr. Nnamdi Ihenacho, Dethra Giles, Nandita Godbole, Karl Obinna Amalu, and Dr. Nazeera Dawood.
Among the featured talks, Mittiga, voice behind the WE! Podcast, spoke on emotional healing and human connection, encouraging the audience to become a force for healing in the world.
Ihenacho, founder and CEO of NSTAR Technologies and Executive Director of the African Immigrant Collective, explored a form of capital that many people use yet rarely name.
Luise guided attendees through themes of reinvention and identity, emphasizing the importance of returning to one’s truest self.
Dawood, entrepreneur and CEO of Vendorship Inc., combined perspective and heart in her talk, “The Room,” sharing how every transition in life led her toward something greater.
Godbole, an Atlanta-based award-winning cookbook author, ethnobotanist, and food journalist, shared her journey of “cracking the code” of Indian cooking and creativity.
Guest speakers and honorees added another dimension to the event. Veena Rao, founder of NRI Pulse and guest speaker, reflected on her own journey of evolution, sharing how storytelling and journalism have shaped her life and purpose.
Other guest speakers included Ravi Guntapalli, Akbar Ali, Keri Gober, and Lakshmi Mandavalli.
Priti Bandi served as Chief Guest of Honor. Gober also represented the American Cancer Society, with early discussions pointing toward a possible future collaboration with Keyurah LIFE, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit platform focused on supporting rare cancer initiatives in the United States.
Following the event, several speakers shared their appreciation. Luise described the experience as deeply welcoming and meaningful, calling it “one big family” and acknowledging the care and heart behind its execution.
Beyond the talks, attendees experienced a day of authentic conversations, networking, and community engagement. Anand said the event reflected inclusiveness and diversity at their best.
“When diverse voices come together, something truly meaningful is created,” she said.
TEDx Johns Creek 2026 marked another milestone in the organization’s journey—celebrating not only ideas, but also the people behind them. Organizers also announced plans to continue hosting TEDx Johns Creek as an annual platform for ideas, connection, and community impact.
