The Organizing Committee
The Organizing Committee’s overarching goal is this: to tell our story, showcase our ambassadors, give our community a voice and to engage the world. We’re all extremely excited and honoured to be a part of bringing TEDx to our region.
So go ahead and click the tabs above to find out a little more about us, and if you have any feedback you can let us know through Facebook, Twitter or even through some old-school email.
Matt Youens , Chair
A resident of Fort McMurray since 2006, Matt is a professional Human Resources Advisor by day, and an almost-nauseating community advocate the rest of the time – just ask his family and friends. Never one to take himself or his bios too seriously, Matt is however thrilled that the TEDx platform has grown strong roots within the region and he is thrilled to be working with such high calibre teammates. Matt’s favourite TED video is Willie Smitts Restores a Rainforest.
| @mattyouens |
Ken Chapman, TEDx Mentor
Social media savant and lawyer Ken Chapman, executive director of a local industry association, is always looking for the next narrative in a sweeping range of interests from business and environment to social concerns and community development. Often called a game changer and divergent thinker, Ken passionately believes in the power of citizen engagement and participation in the democratic process. And this accomplished raconteur is as comfortable brainstorming over a bowl of soup with cultural creatives as he is helping guide decisions and policies in corporate boardrooms and government committee rooms.
| @kenchapman46 |
Loraine Humphrey, Venue
As Manager of the Suncor Energy Centre for the Performing Arts, Loraine is excited to, once again, host this world-class event in her facility. It’s hard to believe that 2 short years ago she was a “Ted Who?” person – now she is an active TED talk surfer. The messages and idea sharing at TEDx Fort McMurray last year were amazing and she is excited to continue the conversations!
Renee Summers, Marketing
Renee moved to Fort McMurray four years ago. Her career has included positions in a diverse array of industries. The Marketing Director, entrepreneur and mother of a five-year-old girl has embraced Fort McMurray as her home and is passionate about setting the record right on the misconceptions about the region. As a national conference planner and active member of the International Association of Business Communicators, Renee brings vast experience and passion to the TEDx team.
| @summersdirect |
Rolando Inzunza, Speakers
Rolando moved to Fort McMurray in 2006 from Halifax. Although the opportunity to expand his career brought him to YMM, it was the people and becoming invested in the community’s social infrastructure that made it home. Rolando is an avid volunteer at events and on local boards and committees. Too many TED videos have awed and inspired Rolando to narrow it to just one favourite; for example, Bobby McFerrin Hacking Your Brain with Music is incredibly unique, with almost no spoken words.
| @CDNro |
Jeanette Bancarz, Finance
Jeanette is a proud Fort McMurray community member and is excited to contribute to the 2013 TedX Fort McMurray event. A strong believer in creating an environment where innovation and creativity are paramount, Jeanette looks forward to the new ideas and thoughts to be shared at this year’s event.
Stephen Gartner, Theatre
Stephen has called Fort McMurray home for the past six years. He teaches middle school visual arts sharing his passion for creative exploration with his students every day. Combining construction skills learned from his father and inspiration gathered from the world around him, he brings a creative presence and innovative imagery to the TEDx team. Stephen’s favourite TED video is John Bohannon: Dance vs. PowerPoint.
Jude Groves, Sponsors
Committed to serving the community Jude has been actively involved in many transportation and safety groups within Wood Buffalo. Jude is actively involved in the United way, Leadership Wood Buffalo, Safe Communities / Road Safety Wood Buffalo and the Alberta Motor Transport Association sitting as the regional director. Jude is also a proud graduate of Leadership Wood Buffalo.
Michelle Landsiedel, PR/ Planning & Scheduling
Michelle has been part of the Wood Buffalo Community since 2005, holding various roles within the Oil Sands industry. She currently holds the title of Operations Maintenance Coordinator, but other titles include Wife, Mother, Coach, Student and Volunteer. Michelle has been an ambassador for Wood Buffalo for years and is always excited to share the positive and inspiring ways this community gives back. Michelle is also a proud graduate of Leadership Wood Buffalo.
| @mlandslide |
Zayal Berube, Volunteer/ Wrap Party
Zayal Berube has been a fan and promoter of TED for years, and was thrilled to volunteer for the inaugural TEDx Fort McMurray in 2012. She believes that TEDx will continue to contribute to the positive image that Fort McMurray deserves, and provide residents opportunities to come together, exchange ideas and celebrate this dynamic community.
Karen Puga, Environment
A Lead Beautification Coordinator during the week, Karen also provides administrative support & leadership the Wood Buffalo Communities in Bloom, the Fort McMurray Environment Committee and has volunteered for community events with the Fort McMurray Historical Society, SPCA, Harvest of Hope and Festival of Trees. Karen is also a proud member of Leadership Wood Buffalo.