HispanicBusiness

Greater Johnstown High School students have been challenged to give the talk of their lives.

The school will host a TED -- Technology, Entertainment, Design -- event May 1 at the high school.

International TED events bring together the world's most respected thinkers and doers who are put to the task of giving a talk in 18 minutes or less on a variety of topics with the goal of spreading ideas.

Local events are referred to as TEDx.

Those looking to host an event need to apply, gain approval from the organization and follow specific regulations.

The theme, "Human Kind," was selected by the Johnstown students. Up to 14 students will talk on issues they believe the community faces and what they can do to see improvements, how they view the world, diversity, building relationships, and bridging the gap between younger and older generations.

"This is an opportunity to showcase our students and for them to share their ideas with the community and the world," said Michael Vuckovich, high school principal. "They are working together to see a change."

In addition, area business and community leaders have been invited to give presentations that take on global issues.

The project began in August with students meeting two or three times a month to prepare.

Senior Kendra Slis, president of the Key Club, which was instrumental in organizing the event, said the project is unlike anything they've tackled before.

"It's a unique way to look at things from different perspectives and for students to teach the professsionals who are coming on ways we think we can make this a better place," she said.

Mike Artim, executive director of Cambria-Rowe Business College, will be one of the guest speakers.

"It'll be interesting to hear what the kids have to say," he said. "I don't think we listen enough to the younger generations and just assume we know the issues they face, so it's a great concept to be able to hear their thoughts and ideas."

The event is not open to the public, but all presentations will be uploaded to the district's YouTube channel at www.gjsd.net.

For more information, visit www.TED.com.