Katy Beranek 

What are you speaking about and why did you choose this subject? 

“I am speaking about the global relationships I have formed after starting my own global teen water-awareness group (Water Solutionaries). I choose it because I have had some pretty amazing experiences meeting all these new people from around the world and I really want to share that with my school community to encourage them to make a new connection or take a new risk.”

When did you first realize this was the subject that interested you? 

“I first realized this, over quarantine, when I was bored in my room and wanted to do something to not only make myself be more motivated, but to also help out the environment.”

What motivated you to do a TED Talk?

“One of my long-time environmental friends had just done a TED Talk at her school and encouraged me to do one as well. She wanted both of us to have that shared experience of prepping for it and then getting up on the stage and actually giving the speech.”

What do you want people to learn or appreciate about your TED Talk?

“I want people to learn that it is okay to take a chance and make a relationship with someone they might not have thought to make before. By taking a chance you can do some pretty exciting things.”

How did you prepare for the TED Talk?

“​​I ran through my speech a lot with my family and friends. I also had Mr. Wanninger help me get my speech to the best place it could be.”

How nervous are you to speak in front of so many people? 

“I am overall not that nervous, but the butterflies are still there. I have spoken in front of large crowds before for Water Solutionaries so they shouldn’t be much different, besides the fact that I am speaking to people I know more personally.”