Theme: Beyond the Lens

Join us for an illuminating journey into the dynamic world of storytelling and discovery at TEDxClinton Central School: Beyond the Lens. This event will explore how our views of the world—shaped by the lenses we use, both literal and metaphorical—define our experiences, challenge our assumptions, and open doors to new possibilities.

From the clarity of a camera lens to the personal lens of lived experience, our speakers will dive into the power of seeing beyond the surface. They’ll uncover how stepping outside our frames of reference can inspire creativity, build connection, and reveal truths we might otherwise miss.

Discover how shifting focus, changing angles, and embracing unseen narratives can bridge divides, foster understanding, and empower us to envision a brighter future. Through thought-provoking talks and engaging ideas, our speakers will challenge you to examine not just what you see, but how you see it.

Whether you’re a creator, a thinker, or someone searching for a fresh perspective, TEDx: Beyond the Lens offers an extraordinary opportunity to reframe your understanding of the world. Join us as we celebrate the stories, perspectives, and possibilities that emerge when we dare to look beyond the lens.

TEDxClintonMiddleSchoolStudio
75 Chenango Ave S
Clinton, New York, 13323
United States

Brandon Williamson

Storyteller

Brandon Williamson is a Storyteller, Creativity Consultant, Innovation Specialist, and founder of the internationally recognized Pure Ink Poetry organization in Buffalo, NY. With experience serving as a school administrator, college admissions counselor, high school teacher, college advisor, minister, poet, actor, musician, author, athlete, producer, community activist, professional wrestler, and innovator, Brandon has a great understanding of the complexities of perspective in the world of business. He is passionate about the study of creativity and its necessity for businesses and educational institutions to sustain and thrive in the constantly changing world we live in. He is the recipient of an Excellence in Education nomination as a School Administrator, and he is a recipient of the Buffalo Business First’s 40 under 40 award.If you’re ready for a great time of storytelling, performance, and play with a purpose, then come and join the poetry experience that is Brandon Williamson.

Brynn McKeone

Founder of Source Sound Healing

Brynn is the founder of Source Sound Healing and a native to Central N.Y. Her interests as she grew into adulthood always include wellness. Balance of the mind, body, and spirit were often what drove her passions and hobbies. She discovered the healing powers of sound through her own healing journey years ago. Personally transformed by the application and use of healing frequencies, she started on a path to further study the science and knowledge behind what sound healing truly is. She received her sound healing training through The School of Sound under the mentorship of Simone Vitale, while also gaining her certification in Crystal Singing Bowl Healing through Life Changing Energy under the instruction of Vickie Gould. A sudden shift in life allowed her to take a leap of faith and pursue her passion of helping others heal from past trauma and simply life itself. She truly believes that in order to heal the world we must first heal ourselves.

Christopher Connors

author

Christopher D. Connors is a keynote speaker, executive coach and bestselling author of three books on leadership and personal development: The Champion Leader, Emotional Intelligence for the Modern Leader and The Value of You. He is the creator of the LinkedIn Learning course, Leading with Emotional Intelligence, one of the top leadership courses on the site. Christopher helps leaders, managers, professionals and students increase their emotional intelligence, prioritize results and build thriving organizations. He works with Fortune 500 companies such as Northrop Grumman, McKesson and Apple, and he’s worked with schools such as: St. Paul's School, Porter-Gaud, Bullis, Cannon School and Hargrave Military Academy. His writing has appeared in World Economic Forum, CNBC, Thrive Global and many educational publications. Visit him at: chrisdconnors.com.

Maria Maier

Trainer

Maria Maier embodies resilience and determination. Born in Russia, she learned the value of hard work from her parents during challenging times. Starting her career in city government, Maria led housing initiatives that helped families afford homes. After immigrating to the U.S., she spent over a decade in education before founding her company, Step Up & Thrive. Now a dynamic coach and trainer, Maria equips leaders, teams, and organizations to grow and succeed. She has trained with world-renowned experts like leadership guru John Maxwell, business coach Paul Martinelli, and influence pioneer Dr. Robert Cialdini. Maria’s passion lies in helping people believe in themselves, set bold goals, and take action. As President of the CNY BizTalkers Club and a leader in the Mohawk Valley Businesswomen Network, Maria champions the idea that leadership is a mindset, not a title.