Believe in the power of your voice | Maddie Cranston | TEDxKitchenerED

This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. In this inspiring talk, 10 year old Maddie Cranston shares her experiences and accomplishments to inspire kids to have a voice and speak out about what they believe in. Maddie looks to inspire other youths to believe in themselves and realize that they have the power to make change happen.

Maddie Cranston is a 10 year old girl from Waterloo, Ontario. She has been active in her community since age 9 as a public speaker in schools both elementary and secondary as well as post secondary in 2014. Her message is focused on the importance of children believing in themselves and using their voice and ingenuity to help bring about positive change in the world.

Since age 6, Maddie has been focused on researching endangered marine animals to help children and adults learn how to implement even the smallest change to protect our oceans and our planet. Maddie started a club at her school in grade 3 to help save sharks. She taught her classmates about facts to help reduce fear through research and education. Maddie is fearless in her willingness to try new ways to share her message that "little things make a difference and that event the smallest voice can have a big impact". Maddie bakes, writes, blogs, makes calendars and jewelry to raise awareness and funds to support AfriOceans Conservation Alliance www.aoca.org.za, an organization in Cape Town South Africa that made her their first and youngest international ambassador. She uses YouTube to motivate and encourage children in South Africa and around the world.

Although Maddie is little, she is a voice for those who cannot speak and she is a leader and role model for kids everywhere who want to help make a difference in the world, but might not know how to get started or how to solicit support.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)