This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Suicide, bullying, confusing gender and sexuality norms, these are just a few of the major issues youth are faced with in today's hyperactive society. Devun and Shandel, along with a team of other "rad" youth, have started doing something about it. And you'd better listen up, they're likely more fearless than all the adults you know.

Devun Hansen and Shandel Payne are 15 year old, Salt Lake City youth activists, who are determined to give their Utah peers the voice they deserve.Together they want to change the way youth are perceived in the community by breaking down the barrier between kids and adults and becoming involved in developing solutions to societal issues that affect them and future generations. They are working to achieve this is by reaching out to local community leaders, legislatures, organizations, and members of the community and by assisting with programs, support groups, legislation, and other resources that will bring awareness to these topics. Shandel, a passionate singer and photographer, focuses on issues relating to positive self-image, women's rights, and ending homelessness. Devun’s focal points are bullying prevention, self-harm awareness, and LGBT rights, and in his free time he enjoys skateboarding and hip hop dancing. Together with other RAD Youth Teens, they are finding unique ways to bring their community together, while still having fun.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event 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)