The Story Behind TEDxTampa and the Leaders Driving Change
By AAHOA Staff
Leadership isn’t about age – it’s about initiative, vision, and the willingness to step up. Krishna Patel and Harikrishna Patel, two young professionals and AAHOA Members from Tampa, FL, are proving exactly that. At just 20 and 23 years old, respectively, they have taken on the ambitious task of reviving TEDxTampa after a decade-long hiatus, creating a platform for ideas, collaboration, and community impact.
Their journey to this moment began thousands of miles away in Abu Dhabi, where they spent two years playing instrumental roles in building the first traditional Hindu temple in the history of the Middle East. Working alongside world leaders – including the Prime Minister of India and the King of the UAE – they managed site visits, media coverage, and global outreach.
That experience shaped their understanding of leadership, teaching them that real impact happens when people are given a voice and a platform. But for Krishna and Harikrishna, the drive to serve didn’t start there – it has been instilled in them since childhood.
“From a really young age, our Guru His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj has taught us that, ‘In the joy of others lies our own.’ That’s been core to our beliefs, and it’s what inspires us to give back,” said Krishna.
“When you’re surrounded by visionaries, entrepreneurs, and community builders, you start to realize that real impact doesn’t come from waiting. It comes from stepping up,” said Harikrishna. “We saw a gap in Tampa – a need for a space where leaders across industries could come together to share ideas and drive real progress. That’s what inspired us to bring TEDx back to our city.”
Taking Action: Bringing TEDxTampa to Life
Instead of waiting for someone else to take the lead, Krishna and Harikrishna took matters into their own hands. Both are students at the University of South Florida, and their previous experience organizing TEDx events at the university gave them the confidence to pursue an official TEDxTampa license. It’s an opportunity that only a select few receive.
With approval from TED Global, they immediately began building a team, securing venues, and curating a lineup of influential speakers – all while balancing their studies.
“It was never about just putting on an event,” said Krishna. “It was about creating a platform for young professionals, business leaders, and changemakers to come together – to have conversations that don’t just inspire but actually lead to action.”
The event will be held Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Tampa and will feature 10 impactful speakers, including CEOs, healthcare leaders, tech entrepreneurs, and community advocates. The goal? To bring together 1,000 attendees for an unforgettable night of networking, thought leadership, and inspiration.
A Team of Young Leaders
One of the most impressive aspects of TEDxTampa is the team behind it.
“Everyone on our team is under 25, and every single person is a volunteer,” said Harikrishna. “We’ve had over 250 applications from students and young professionals who want to be part of this. It’s a testament to the fact that young people want to lead – they just need the opportunity.”
Their leadership philosophy is simple: Empower others.
“Leadership isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room,” Krishna explained. “It’s about creating opportunities for others to grow, contribute, and be heard. That’s exactly what we’re doing with TEDxTampa.”
The event is a citywide initiative that has garnered attention from top executives, local government leaders, and business professionals. And it’s not just about the speakers, it’s about the people in the audience.
“If you’re someone who wants to grow, who wants to expand your network, who wants to be surrounded by people who are passionate about making change, this is the place to be,” said Harikrishna.
Setting an Example for Young Professionals Nationwide
Krishna and Harikrishna’s journey is about what young professionals can achieve when they take initiative.
Their message to other young leaders is clear:
- Don’t wait for permission. If you see a need, step up and fill it.
- Surround yourself with people who challenge you. Growth happens when you work alongside ambitious, driven individuals.
- Give back. Leadership isn’t about personal success – it’s about creating opportunities for others.
This mindset has fueled their efforts, and it’s something they hope other young professionals, including AAHOA Members, will embrace.
“We’re at an inflection point where young leaders have the chance to shape the future of our cities, industries, and communities,” said Harikrishna. “It’s up to us to take action, to create spaces for collaboration, and to build something meaningful. If TEDxTampa can serve as an example of that, then we’ve done our job.”
Their story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t defined by experience or titles – it’s defined by action. And for Krishna and Harikrishna, the action they’re taking today is setting the stage for a brighter, more connected future in Tampa and beyond.
Special Invitation for AAHOA Members
As an organization deeply invested in the future of hospitality, AAHOA recognizes the value of strong leadership and professional development. That’s why TEDxTampa is offering a special discount for AAHOA Members.
TEDxTampa is set to be a transformational experience designed for professionals, entrepreneurs, and changemakers.
- World-Class Speakers: Hear from some of Tampa’s and the world’s most influential leaders in business, healthcare, tech, and philanthropy.
- High-Impact Networking: Connect with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and young professionals who are shaping the future of Tampa.
- Fresh Ideas, Actionable Insights: Walk away with new strategies, perspectives, and inspiration to apply to your career and community.
- A Unique Experience: The event is designed to be elegant, engaging, and impactful – held in an iconic Tampa venue for an unforgettable evening.
Attending TEDxTampa is an opportunity to engage with top business minds, expand your professional network, and gain insights that can elevate your career.
“We truly believe that AAHOA Members represent the future of entrepreneurship and leadership in America,” said Krishna. “This event is an opportunity for them to be part of a conversation that will shape the next generation of business and innovation.”
To claim the AAHOA Member Discount, visit www.tedx-tampa.com, and use code AAHOA10 at checkout.
Image: TEDxTampa
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