“Inspiring talks and a powerful sense of community. Being surrounded by passionate thinkers and creators reminded me of the magic that happens when people come together to share ideas. It was more than just an event — it was a spark of collective purpose and connection."
"Outstanding event from start to finish. The talks were beautifully curated and the guests’ experiences was fun and lively."
"This was hands down the best TEDx event I have attended! I was so impressed by the vendors, the setup and the speakers! Highly recommended this event!"
"This event was incredible. It was extremely well thought out and prepared. The production quality was top notch. The speakers did an amazing job. There were lively discussions and talks that truly moved people. "
“Truly the best speaking event ever! I have gone to hundreds of talks and conferences and this is definitely in my top 5! Every single speaker was amazing. The transitions were perfection. It was an amazing day!!”
"Outstanding event from start to finish. The talks were beautifully curated and the guests’ experiences were fun and lively."
Make a donation
TEDx Sugar Creek Women is a non-profit event with a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor. Contribute to amplify the voices of women in Charlotte with a tax-deductible donation!
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Community
TEDxSugar Creek Women is a part of the TEDx global movement of ideas worth spreading.
While our events are designed to amplify the dynamic work and ideas of women, we are gender
inclusive and welcome all to attend, apply to speak, and support the community.
We are a 100% volunteer-run team committed to fostering connection and creativity.
In addition to our main event, you'll find us sparking meaningful conversations at a variety of gatherings; think networking socials, coffee chats, workshops, and virtual campfires. We hope to see you soon!
Apply to be a part of the movement as a speaker, team member, or community partner!
Speakers
Do you have a unique idea to share with the world? Have you dreamed of stepping onto the red dot to make an impact with your story?
Speakers have been selected for 2026.
Apply for a future event!
Volunteers
From behind-the-scenes planning to assisting on-site, there are lots of ways to be involved. It takes a village to produce a TEDx event! If you'd like to be part of the fun, start here.
Partnerships
We love our community partners who make the magic possible! We meet leaders where they are with several ways to engage, including sponsorship options and in-kind partnerships. Learn about collaboration opportunities.
What is TEDx?
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TED has created a program called TEDx. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. Our event is called TEDxSugar Creek Women, where x = independently organized TED event. At our TEDxSugar Creek Women event, TEDTalks video and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events, including ours, are self-organized. Our event is operated under a license from TED.
Connecting The Past & Future
The intention behind our name, TEDxSugar Creek Women, is to recognize the indigenous tribes that first lived on our land. Sugar Creek is thought to be named after the Sugaree Native Americans that first lived along the banks of the body of water which ran through the Carolinas into what is now Mecklenburg county. There is a wide debate on the origin, spelling, and pronunciation of the name. We hope this inspires you to learn more about the history of Charlotte and the first communities who lived here.
Meet The Team
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Cara Truitt
Founder, Executive Producer, Lead Curator
Cara Truitt is the Licensed Organizer for TEDxSugar Creek Women. An entrepreneur
in Charlotte for 20 years, Cara is a longtime community leader and has served on the production team for three TEDx events. Cara was recognized as one of the top 50 Women to Know in North Carolina in 2024 by KNOW Women. She is passionate about the power of inclusive community and practicing intentional connection. When she is not speaking or organizing community events, you'll find her walking on the greenway or at home with her husband and two young children in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
Terese Schoen
Director of Operations
Fitzgerald Light
Director of Strategic Partnerships
Tara LaFon Gooch
Speaker Coach
Curation Committee
Melissa Taylor
Speaker Coach
Curation Committee
Mandy Amos
Executive Assistant
Seth Baird
Photography
Alianna Kendall-Brooks
Communications Lead
Dr. Angel Taylor
Community and Volunteer Director, Curation Committee
Andrea Merrill
Speaker Coach
Curation Committee
Molly Barker
Speaker Coach
Brian Lafontaine
Speaker Coach & Director
Monique Stubbs
Master of Ceremonies
