Vasia

From ghost town to ecocity -- A new path to peace | Vasia Markides | TEDxLimassol

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• published: 02 Jan 2015
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This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. "The earth is flat”. “Home computers are useless”. “Humanity is condemned to be starved”. “Women are born inferior”. Throughout the years, pioneering scientific discoveries overturn established theories, vibrant societies transcend dominant perceptions, bold individuals expand physical and intellectual limits proving everything wrong: This is the way in which we seek to improve our lives and to deepen the understanding of the world around us. At TEDxLimassol we are searching for the next refute in small and large things: In the universe and subatomic particles. In our societies and in our bodies. In our behavior, attitudes and perceptions. In our mental, physical and personal capabilities. Proving everything wrong is always the right thing to do. *Where there is doubt, there is freedom. New York based Founder & Director of The Famagusta Ecocity Project, a growing movement in Cyprus to transform an occupied ghost city into Europe’s model Ecocity and center for peace and reconciliation. A painter originally, Vasia turned to filmmaking in 2003 when the Turkish army slackened the checkpoints separating the north and south of Cyprus. In 2008, she completed “Hidden in the Sand,” a chronicle of her mother’s hometown which remains off limits within the occupied ghost town of Varosha. “Hidden in the Sand” has screened in venues and festivals across the U.S., Puerto Rico, Germany, Cyprus, Turkey, and Portugal. Cofounded Eleventown Productions, a New York-based video, film & animation production company working with clients such as Oxfam America, Global Nomads Group and other human rights organizations. Vasia currently freelances as a video producer and film editor in New York City and Nicosia, Cyprus. 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)