Jersey's first TEDx Youth event empowers student voices on March 14, 2026
Jersey's first TEDx Youth event is set to take place on March 14, 2026, at Jersey College for Girls (JCG). Organised entirely by students from years 8 to 12, the event—titled Unfiltered: Truths That Shape Us—will feature 12 young speakers tackling a wide range of personal and societal topics. Every detail, from securing the venue to managing media outreach, has been handled by the pupils themselves.
The students have spent months preparing for the event, ensuring all TEDx licensing requirements were met. Their efforts have covered everything from booking the venue to coordinating with local media. Assistant Headteacher Natalie Hopkins highlighted their dedication, calling their maturity, commitment, and intellectual curiosity exceptional.
The lineup includes talks on diverse subjects. MJ Jones will speak about living with Down's syndrome, addressing the daily challenges faced by individuals and their carers. Savanna Vogt will explore how hormonal changes during adolescence impact the female voice and ways to protect vocal health. Meanwhile, Mimi Carney will argue for sport as a vital life subject, explaining how it builds resilience, teamwork, and confidence.
Other sessions will cover AI's role in the arts, the effects of social media on body image, and breaking free from societal expectations. Penny Le Maistre will share her own journey of pursuing dreams beyond conventional norms, aiming to inspire young listeners. Each presentation will be recorded and later published on the official TEDx YouTube channel.
Beyond the talks, the project has given students hands-on experience in leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving. They've developed skills in communication, critical thinking, and resilience—competencies that extend far beyond the classroom.
The event marks a significant achievement for JCG's students, who have independently organised Jersey's first TEDx Youth gathering. Their work has not only brought important conversations to the forefront but also equipped them with practical abilities for future challenges. The recorded talks will remain available online, offering wider access to the ideas shared.
