Pat Mitchell

Activist, Business adviser, Connector

Pat Mitchell is a revolutionary force in media and advocacy, breaking new ground throughout her career as a journalist, Emmy-winning producer, and pioneering executive. She has relentlessly elevated women's stories and ideas, making an indelible mark on the industry. As the co-founder of Connected Women Leaders, she leads a global coalition of leaders dedicated to collective problem-solving, spearheading a women-led climate justice campaign to connect, elevate and amplify women’s leadership as a pivotal accelerator towards a climate safe planet for all. Mitchell’s influence extends to her transformative role as the editorial director, co-founder, curator, and host of TEDWomen, amplifying powerful, often underrepresented voices and ideas. Her unwavering commitment to social justice is reflected in her service on the boards of the Sundance Institute, The Skoll Foundation, Participant Media, Woodruff Arts Center, the Advisory Council of the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum, the International Advisory Board for Internews, and CARE’s global advisory board. As a founding member of the VDAY movement, she tirelessly champions the end of violence against women and girls. In her memoir, "Becoming a Dangerous Woman: Embracing Risk to Change the World," Mitchell shares her bold journey as a frontline advocate for equality and social justice. She defines 'dangerous' as the audacity to speak up for the unrepresented, to stand firmly against abuse and injustice, and to show up for others. Pat Mitchell's life and work are a testament to the transformative power of purpose and passion and at 81, as engaged and active as ever, proof that activism is an antidote to aging; that we never pass the Torch of leadership but encourage others by example to hold their own, brighter and more boldly than ever.

The need more feminist leadership, grounded in the essential values of justice anx equality for all.

Women are world’s “Big Bet” to secure a climate safe world for all.

My first TED, invited to speak at TEDU on social change through global media, was daunting. I had little understanding of the impact of giving a TEDtalk, even a six minute one. But I quickly grasped the unique and totally memorable experience that participating in a TED Conference could be... and I was hooked. I also saw an opportunity to further engage this important global platform to include more ideas and perspectives from women. As a committed participant in many women 's conferences, I had a vast network of accomplished, interesting women to suggest for TEDtalks and as I began to share them with The TED programming team the idea took shape to convene and curate the first TEDWomen. TED talks from TEDWomen have been viewed more than 10 million times! And in 2011, the idea further evolved to convene a TEDxWomen at the Paley Center for media theatres in NY and LA and connected to hundreds of TEDx 's around the world. Another idea worth spreading from TED.

Fly fishing and dancing