It’s hard to describe what a TED conference is like in real life — mind bending, perspective shifting, colorful, delicious, world-changing … and so much more. But don’t just take our word for it.

This week, we’re giving you an inside look at one first-timer’s journey and what it’s really like to become part of the TED community.

That first-timer is Renae Reints, Editorial Producer on TED’s Publishing and Social team. For the next 4 days, you’ll hear about her first impressions of TED2025, the sights, the sounds and most importantly: what it’s like meeting TED’s vibrant and inspiring global community.

Without further ado, we’ll pass the mic over to Renae.

‍Walking into TED for the very first time

I was practically bouncing off the walls when I walked into the Vancouver Convention Centre: there was so much to see. And on day one of TED2025, the venue seemed to vibrate with equal excitement. At the heart of it all? The attendees — the TED community that’s shaped the experience for decades. 

I had to meet as many members of the community as possible. I wanted to gather their tips for cultivating meaningful, impactful connections and I couldn’t wait to hear their perspectives on connecting all around the world.

3 tips for finding your people

1. Embrace the awkward

At a conference where some attendees have been gathering for over 20 years (there’s pins to prove it!), being a newcomer can be daunting. Even as an employee, I found myself wondering what’s expected. The feeling didn’t last long, as the Newcomer’s Orientation kicked off Monday morning, I learned 3 important things about attending a TED conference:

1. Everyone is welcome
2. You should challenge yourself
3. Always be present

After the introduction, we were encouraged to ask “energizing questions” — questions that provoke engaging conversations. For example: instead of asking “What do you do for work?” consider “What’s something you hope for in your career?” These questions tap into who you are, requiring deeper — and yes, vulnerable — responses. I shared the awe I felt being at TED for the first time, and how being here helped me understand TED’s mission more deeply. The experience set the tone for communication throughout the week. 

It’s awkward to open up that deeply  with a stranger — but they won’t be a stranger for long if you take the leap.

2. Be generous

I had so many conversations today. As I reflect back on them, 3 words stand out: “positivity,” “inspiration” and “gift.” So many attendees gifted me their attention, life lessons, a good conversation and more. They shared how a new connection can change your life.

And I wasn’t alone.

“This is a place for transformative relationships, not transactional,” said Sunny Bates, a longtime TED attendee and TED Global Community Ambassador. “Lead with generosity, and it will come back tenfold.”

The lesson is applicable regardless of setting. “Community starts with you,” said Sunny. “The more you put into a community, the more you get out of it.” 

Ask those awkwardly vulnerable questions, find out what your new connection is looking for — and you might be surprised to find you have what they need. A recommendation, a word of encouragement, a connection to a colleague. “It doesn't take much. Just a little bit will really go a long way. And you don't know until you ask,” said Sunny.

3. Keep an open mind — and lead with joy

“Start with seeking to understand others, rather than be understood,” advised TED Fellow Andrew Bastawrous. Being a part of the eclectically interdisciplinary TED Fellows program, he said the exposure to such diverse ideas “has allowed me to think differently, to explore ideas I would never even have considered, collaborations I couldn't have dreamed of.” While his work centers on providing affordable eye care solutions, he has worked with artists, data scientists and even Amazonian explorers.

“People are tackling such complicated problems,” said Molly Hemstreet, a 2025 TED Fellow and cofounder of sustainable textile organization The Industrial Commons. “You could feel the weight of those problems. But there's something that's very joyful and uplifting about this group.”

All of the TED Fellows I spoke to emphasized joy, kindness, positivity — the qualities that make you drop your guard and build life-long connections. Points of connection are not difficult to find when you embrace your differences.

“Some of my closest friends have come from the TED fellowship,” said Andrew. Over the last 10 years, he and another Fellow have “shared a lot of life together,” with their families becoming close. “And that level of friendship, although we're working in very different spaces, has come from this shared sense of identity in solving a social problem,” he said. “I can't underestimate the value of having that kind of relationship.”

As day two of TED2025 commences, I look forward to seeing familiar faces and starting awkwardly vulnerable questions in line at the barista bar. I’m so excited to see all that lies ahead in this exciting week: the next idea, the next exhibit, the next new thing. As I head back to my hotel room for the evening, I am reflecting on a very good tip that TED’s Chief Program & Strategy Officer, Monique Ruff-Bell, shared at the Newcomer’s Orientation: “Pace yourself and please drink a lot of water.”

Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow for Day 2!

P.S. It’s not too late to experience a little TED magic at home. Tune into TED Live and access the latest and greatest ideas before anyone else.