“Ideas worth spreading”: the famous motto of the world-renowned TED Talks organization. This November, TUJ put their own spin on the traditional speech event with their own version named TUJ Talks.
The fourth rendition of TUJ Talks highlighted the ideas, talents, and passions of the TUJ Student Body. This year saw the Program Board team officially take over its organization for the very first semester. Alongside other organizing members and the TUJ Emerging Leaders Program, its planning was in good hands. Before the big night, multiple speakers and performers applied for a shot to perform in front of 300+ people on the Parliament stage.
The evening kicked off with a wonderful message from Dean Wilson, inviting the students to reflect on the theme of the event: Metamorphosis. Metamorphosis is the process of change from one state to another, commonly associated with the idea of butterflies. The Parliament was specially decorated with butterflies and vines to match the metamorphosis theme.
After Dean Wilson, the featured guest speaker for the night was Associate Dean of Academics Yasuko Taoka, who spoke about her experience growing up in different environments and the lessons she learned from it. “It was such an honor to have Dean Yasuko as our guest speaker, I feel like it adds so much value and credibility to our event” says Leo - the On-Campus Coordinator of the Program Board.
Our guest performance of the night featured Zumimi & Bowpi, an 11-member funk band based out of Setagaya. The TUJ Parliament went electric as the crowd danced, cheered, and stood for their stellar performance.
With a total of 15 performances and speeches, TUJ Talks: Metamorphosis was a night to remember. All the performers showed strong stage presence and our speakers delivered compelling speeches, all displaying their interpretations of the Metamorphosis theme. The TUJ student audience enjoyed free pizza while supporting their fellow classmates.
The TUJPB and organizing committee would like to extend a big thank you to everyone who came and looks forward to seeing you at future events. Don't forget to follow us on Instagram @tujpb.
