TED Talks give a platform to those looking to use their voices on various subjects—from thought leaders to celebrities to even everyday people—as motivational content made to inspire us daily. They encourage us to think bigger and help us conceptualize a way of creating tangible change.
If you need a boost of uplifting energy, check out these inspiring TED Talks by eight phenomenal women.
Luvvie Ajayi Jones
In this Ted Talk, Luvvie Ajayi Jones explains, “When we step out of our comfort zones, we open ourselves up to new opportunities and pathways that we never imagined.” The writer, public speaker and digital strategist speaks about being fearless by using one’s voice in order to spark widespread change.
Adia Gooden
“Holding ourselves in the highest regard can do wonders for the quality of our lives,” says psychologist Adia Gooden. Here, she shares helpful methodologies for breaking away from negative thinking and building a formidable spirit of self-worth.
Brittany Packnett Cunningham
“Having confidence in yourself and your abilities is wonderful, however, being able to instill it in others is a beautiful gift,” explains educator and activist Brittany Packnett Cunningham. In this TED Talk, she explores how having confidence can lead us to revolutionary dreams.
Tracee Ellis Ross
“The collective shared experiences of women have been ignored globally. Nevertheless, women persist and remain transparent about their struggles and hopes for a better world,” says 2024 EBONY Power 100 honoree, Tracee Ellis Ross. Here, she reminds us of the good within sharing our rage and how it can unify the human race.
Bevy Smith
“It’s never too late to be the person you’ve always dreamed you could be,” says media personality Bevy Smith. In this TED Talk, our favorite auntie gives tips for aspiring to be your best no matter what age you are.
Denise Francis
“The love a Black woman has for herself has been weaponized throughout history,” shares self-love educator Denise Francis. Here, she connects the dots between healing and breaking traumatic chains for Black women.
Stacey Abrams
Stacey Abrams has been a glowing example of what it looks like to go after your ambitions no matter what others might say. In this talk, she emphasizes how our response to setbacks says about who we are at our core.
T. Morgan Dixon and Vanessa Garrison
Black women deserve to live healthy lives free from fear and struggle but they often don’t get the chance to. T. Morgan Dixon and Vanessa Garrison share how they are combatting this through their organization GirlTrek.
