On Saturday, October 13, Blue Zones Project had the privalege of participating in the TEDx Manhattan Beach event. The theme was “Purpose,” an ideal fit with our mission. Due to the size of this event a volunteer event coordinator, Mei, was recruited to assist with managing event details and volunteer schedules throughout the day. Below is her feedback on the day’s activities. Enjoy!
by Mei Kameda
Physical activity and nutrition were my go-to health promotion initiatives that interested me as well as my focus in college while I studied Community Health Education. Until I started my involvement with Blue Zones Project, I never looked in-depth regarding mental and emotional wellness and the importance of it. When I first was introduced to the meaning of “purpose”, the first thought that came to mind was: “I never really sat down and thought about this…” As I was further informed about the TEDx event, it gave me a realization how valuable this event was to the community – how being aware of “your purpose” in life is empowering.
On the day of the event my heart was filled with excitement and nerves since this was my first time being a volunteer event coordinator. Despite the butterflies, the first thought that came in my mind when I walked into the gymnasium was “wow” – the environment was very welcoming, warm, and there was nothing intimidating about the exhibitor’s area. Once we were successfully able to place our stations together, it was time for us to wait for the first session to end so that we could interact with the event participants. Once people began to come into the gymnasium, the energy was phenomenal. Many showed excitement and liveliness, and what I thought was powerful of the event was that every single one of those participants was here for similar reasons: to discover their purpose or learn how to discover their purpose in life. In particular with the Blue Zones Project section, many people were engaged in the Calling Cards activity, video testimonials, the My Purpose board, which got filled at an instant, and people interacting and talking amongst one another to further discover their natural gifts. Being able to be a part of that was an incredible feeling. The event definitely altered my perception about health promotion and wellness. It allowed me to further pursue my passion in the health education field and hopefully share my rewarding experience with others so that I can discover my purpose, as well as help others discover theirs.
To learn more about Purpose and how to find yours, join us at our upcoming Purpose Workshop:
Wednesday, November 7
Beach Cities Health District
514 N. Prospect Ave, Beach Cities Room (lower level)
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
$8 for pre-registration
$10 at the door
