Joyce Francis

Brainstormer, Christian, Connector, Consultant, Designer, Educator/Teacher, Event planner, Foodie, Idea generator, Job-seeker, Marketer, Musician, Parent, Potential employer, Producer, Project manager, Promoter, Sales specialist, Single

With over two decades of experience in education and a strong background in marketing and school management, I am passionate about creating platforms where young voices can be heard and ideas worth spreading can take flight. Currently serving as an Advisor and Organizer at The International School of Macao (TIS), I have the privilege of leading the school's TEDx and TED-Ed initiatives. My role involves curating meaningful youth-focused events, coaching student speakers, and building programs that foster critical thinking, authenticity, and creative expression within our international school community. In 2024, we successfully held our inaugural TEDx@TISMacaoYouth event, a milestone that brought together students and educators to explore ideas under the theme "Unmasked, Uncovered, Us." The evening featured a lineup of courageous student speakers who shared personal insights on identity and connection, demonstrating the power of youth-led dialogue. Building on that momentum, we launched the TED-Ed Program at TIS this year, creating new opportunities for students to develop and present their own TED-style talks within the classroom and beyond. My journey in education spans more than 20 years as a teacher, giving me a deep understanding of how to engage young learners and nurture their confidence. Complementing this, my background in marketing and school management has equipped me with the strategic and organizational skills needed to bring events like TEDx to life—from securing partnerships and managing logistics to amplifying student stories through effective communication. I believe that every student has a story worth sharing, and I am honored to help provide the stage for those stories to unfold. Through TEDx and TED-Ed at TIS Macao, I hope to continue building a culture of curiosity, courage, and community.