The Difference That Makes a Difference: Vusi Mahlasela at TEDxCharlottesville 2013

South African singer-songwriter, Vusi Mahlasela, will join the stage for his third TED event. He spoke and performed at TEDGlobal in 2007 and TED in Monterey in 2008. Simply known as "The Voice" in his home country, Mahlasela's music and message was crucial during the fight against apartheid, and still is in the new modern-day nation. Vusi has recently been honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in South Africa, awarded an honorary doctorate degree from Rhodes University, and honored by South African President Jacob Zuma with the "National Order of Ikhamanga" recognizing him for "drawing attention to the injustices that isolated South Africa from the global community during the Apartheid years." Blending traditional African music with soul and blues, his music showcases powerful vocals and poetic lyrics. Vusi is signed to fellow South African Dave Matthews' label, ATO Records. Vusi is currently on tour with Taj Mahal and will be peeling off the tour to make a special stop at TEDxCharlottesville.

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)

CREDITS:
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Film & Staging: www.theavcompany.net
Editing: MC2 Creative