TEDxHarlem

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Bethanie Nonami

  Bethanie Nonami is an AI strategist, speaker, and advocate for more human-centered innovation in the age of artificial intelligence. Her work explores the intersection of technology, identity, leadership, and human potential — helping people navigate a future that is changing faster than most of us feel prepared for. Known for making complex ideas deeply personal and accessible, Bethanie challenges audiences to think beyond productivity and ask bigger questions about trust, access, creativity, and what it truly means to remain human in an AI-driven world.

• Donald Ruff

  Donald M. Ruff, Jr. is President & CEO of The Eagle Academy Foundation (EAF), where he is dedicated to empowering young men of color and expanding educational opportunity. Raised in Harlem, Donald experienced educational inequities firsthand, shaping his lifelong commitment to advancing equity and leadership. Under his leadership, EAF launched The Eagle Institute, which provides professional development and technical assistance to educators nationwide, and Eagles Soaring Beyond, supporting college readiness, workforce development, financial empowerment, and social-emotional learning. Through these efforts, EAF has impacted more than 40,000 young men of color across 65 cities. Donald's leadership has been recognized by City & State New York's Above and Beyond Innovators and The Responsible 100, as well as Crain's Notable Black Leaders. His work is driven by a simple but powerful mission: ensuring every young man of color has the opportunity to thrive and lead.

• Dr. Philippe Douyon

  Dr. Philippe Douyon is a Board-Certified Neurologist, Brain & Mindset Coach, Author, and Speaker dedicated to helping motivated individuals optimize their brain function for peak performance. With a deep understanding of neuroscience, he empowers individuals to enhance their mental clarity, focus, and resilience to excel in their careers, businesses, and personal lives. He also helps people create a powerful mind by building a healthy brain. Dr. Douyon created the online course, Take Charge of Your Brain. Through his expertise, he provides science-backed strategies to rewire the brain for success, health, and fulfillment.

• Enoch Naklen

  Enoch Naklen is a published multimedia journalist and digital strategist whose work bridges archival history and contemporary community storytelling. A professional writer since age 16, he began by examining code-switching and police brutality and has since contributed to respected publications including The Nation, the New York Amsterdam News, and Our Time Press. Rooted in arts and culture, Enoch has developed a distinctive visual style that combines archival footage from the African Diaspora with high-quality event coverage and compelling voiceover storytelling. Over the past year, he has hosted or covered more than 30 events, including conversations with national leaders such as Shawn Dove on the opportunities and challenges facing Black youth. Through his pioneering approach to "Intimate Journalism," Enoch is redefining digital storytelling while preserving the authenticity and legacy of community journalism.

• Harriette Cole

  Harriette Cole, founder of Harriette Cole Media, Inc., is a celebrated coach, bestselling author, storyteller, and media executive who has empowered entertainers, entrepreneurs, professionals, and students for more than 30 years. She is the author of seven books on personal growth and success and founded Dreamleapers to help people achieve their dreams. Cole hosts the radio show and podcast Dreamleapers with Harriette Cole and Dreamleapers Inspiration. She made history as the first female editor-in-chief of Ebony magazine and previously served as fashion director of Essence. She is also the first nationally syndicated advice columnist with Sense & Sensitivity, published daily. A Howard University alumna, Cole is an adjunct professor at F.I.T., serves on the board of PRASAD, and is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

• Mari Moss

  The Honorable Mari Moss, MPA is an economic developer, strategist, advocate, and community builder whose work advances equity, economic justice, and community preservation. A Lenape descendant with deep roots connected to Harlem, she brings a unique perspective on land, identity, and sustainable development. As CEO of Midas Touch Consulting, Mari has supported more than $1 billion in development initiatives, helped create over 5,000 jobs, and advanced community-centered economic strategies, with nearly half of those opportunities benefiting Harlem. Her work focuses on expanding access to capital, strengthening local businesses, and promoting community wealth-building. She is also the founder of Letter to Legislation, a survivor-led movement advancing policy reform and protections for women and families impacted by domestic violence. A dedicated public servant and mother of three daughters, Mari is committed to building stronger, more equitable communities for future generations.

• Ny Whitaker

  Ny Whitaker is a social impact entrepreneur, strategist, educator, and civic leader who has spent more than three decades advancing innovation, equity, and opportunity across politics, culture, business, and community. As Founder and Chief Strategist of PROJECT NYNE, she helps executives and organizations transform bold ideas into measurable, lasting impact. Her leadership experience includes serving as a White House Presidential Appointee, healthcare CEO, and founding Executive Director of the W.E.B. DuBois Center for Freedom and Democracy. Ny also mentors emerging leaders through The Obama Foundation and the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center and serves as an Adjunct Professor of leadership and change management at New York University. Rooted in Harlem, she is committed to building equitable systems that expand access, opportunity, and lasting change.

• Tren’ness Woods-Black

  Tren’ness Woods-Black is a visionary strategist, culture-preneur, and global ambassador of hospitality, known as “The Queen of Hospitality” for transforming cultural authenticity into business and community impact. A third-generation leader and granddaughter of legendary restaurateur Sylvia Woods of Sylvia’s Restaurant, she combines family legacy with innovative brand strategy, experiential marketing, and cultural storytelling. As President and Chief Strategist of Tren’ness Woods-Black LLC, she leads a consultancy serving Fortune 500 companies including DoorDash, Target, Diageo, Thrillist, McNeil Nutritionals, and Group Nine Media. Her firm creates culturally grounded strategies, partnerships, and experiences that drive business results and community connection. Previously, as Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Sylvia’s Restaurant, Tren’ness helped expand the iconic Harlem institution’s global reach while preserving its legacy.