My Journey to Becoming a TEDx Speaker (Final Entry)

On April 25, 2025, I achieved a dream that had been on my heart since 2019: I became a TEDx speaker. 

This moment was not just about standing on a stage—it was about honoring a journey filled with growth, rejection, learning, and ultimately, transformation. I started chasing this goal in 2019, believing that what mattered most was being a strong public speaker. That belief led me to Toastmasters, where I honed my delivery, practiced regularly, and built my confidence. 

However, as I delved deeper into the TEDx process, I realized that the heart of TEDx isn’t performance—it’s the idea. TEDx organizers want to know: What do you uniquely want to share with the world? The ability to communicate is essential, yes—but the idea is the core. 

So I shifted my focus. I worked hard to refine a message that was truly mine. I leaned into storytelling, developed clarity, and learned how to express meaningful ideas in ways that could resonate deeply with others. 

Along the way, I faced plenty of rejections. TEDx pitches that went nowhere. Applications that were passed over. But each one taught me something. Each one made me better. Each one brought me closer to the version of myself who was finally ready when the opportunity came. 

 If you dream of being a TEDx speaker, here’s what I’ve learned: 

1. Start with your idea. 

Ask yourself: What experience, research, or insight do I have that the world needs to hear? That is the foundation. 

2. Practice storytelling. 

Stories connect us. Whether you’re a scientist, therapist, educator, or entrepreneur—use a story to bring your idea to life. 

3. Develop your voice. 

Public speaking matters, but it’s secondary to the message. Don’t neglect it—but don’t make it the primary focus either. 

 4. Be resilient. 

Rejection is part of the process. Use each “no” as a step toward a better “yes.” The journey itself will make you stronger. 

5. Surround yourself with support. 

This goal wasn’t achieved alone. From Toastmasters to mentors to friends and family—thank you to everyone who encouraged me along the way. 

 Watch My TEDX on YouTube!

If you want to watch my TEDx from April 2025, you can watch it live on YouTube:  

https://youtu.be/vATJij4QPko?si=lbkbwGtXDfrNLf73 

Past Editions of my "Journey to Becoming a TEDX Speaker" Mini-Series

You can also revisit my past editions of the “Journey to Becoming a TEDx Speaker” by visiting the links below: 

Part 1: Planting the Seed 

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/my-journey-becoming-tedx-speaker-edition-1-wilkerson-iii-m-ed-hlz1e?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&utm_campaign=share_via 

An introduction to how this dream started and why it mattered. 

Part 2: Facing Rejection, Finding Resilience 

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/my-journey-becoming-tedx-speaker-edition-2-wilkerson-iii-m-ed-jmxxe?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&utm_campaign=share_via 

A deeper dive into the setbacks and lessons I learned along the way. 

Part 3: It’s Not Just Me, It’s We 

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/my-journey-becoming-tedx-speaker-part-3-its-me-we-philip-z8y0e?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&utm_campaign=share_via 

How the community played a key role in this journey. 

Would you be interested in inspiration from others? 

 Lastly, here’s a curated list of TEDx talks by people in my network who have also delivered powerful ideas worth sharing: 

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/111AlEBg4VTTb9iFZCh6ZbQ9Uw6tGck8qpopO5ODaN5M/edit?usp=drivesdk 

A valuable resource for exploring diverse voices and topics. 

Closing

As I close this chapter, I’m filled with gratitude and a renewed hunger for growth. Reaching this goal reminds me to keep dreaming big—and to be open to the next mountain to climb. 

Thanks for being a part of this ride. If you have TEDx aspirations of your own, please don't hesitate to contact me. I’d be honored to support you. 

About The Author

Philip Wilkerson is an Employer Engagement Consultant at George Mason University (GMU) Career Services. In this role, he builds relationships between employers and the Mason community to support students and alumni in their career journeys. He advises across various industries, including Media, PR, Sports, Hospitality, and Technology.  

Philip is the faculty advisor for GMU’s NAACP Chapter and the Iota Alpha Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha. He was recognized as NACE’s 2024 “Mentor of the Year” and has earned accolades including GMU’s “Employee of the Month,” ALX Chamber’s “Forty under Forty,” and the “Pillar Award” for his commitment to student success. He is the host of the Positive Philter Podcast, a show centered on personal development and mental wellness. He is a proud husband to Maggie and a father to two energetic boys, Bennett and Miles.