TEDxCalgary - Andrew Phung - The obvious secret in engaging youth
Channel: TEDx Talks
Date: 2011-12-20

"You learn by failing" is the philosophy taught to TEDxCalgary speaker Andrew Phung at a young age. Born and raised in the Northeast of Calgary, Andrew is a unique character with a tank full of energy. While attending high school, Andrew became a volunteer at the Loose Moose Theatre Company.

Taken under the wing by many of his improve heroes, Andrew developed a love for the stage. To him the theatre was the one place where he fit in and could be himself. It is at the Loose Moose Theatre where Andrew learned to fail and to get back up again. Through failing, Andrew learned and has adopted this philosophy in everything he does.

Ten years later, Andrew continues to perform at the Loose Moose Theatre. Andrew is a graduate of the University of Calgary and is currently the Program Director of Youth Central (formerly Child and Youth Friendly Calgary). His job allows him the opportunity to speak to and work with young people.

Andrew has spoken/presented to over 12,000 students over the past 3 years. Andrew speaks on the topics of volunteerism, community engagement, and youth voice. Each time Andrew presents, he looks to develop a connection with the students through honesty and humor. In 2006, Andrew facilitated a youth dialogue session between young people and the Governor General of Canada. Since that time, Andrew has developed a long list of speaking engagements.

In 2009/2010 Andrew was a featured host on the television series Drafted presented by the Score Television Network. Andrew was also named as one of Calgary's Top 40 Under 40 in November of 2009. Currently, Andrew is a board member of Calgary2012 and sits on the Mayor's Civic Engagement Committee.

About TEDx

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)