Disposable Society | Rhonnie Brewer | TEDxMemphis

After reaching what she felt was the pinnacle of her career at the young age of 29, Rhonnie suffered a massive stroke. She had to learn to walk and talk again. After recovering from the stroke, she discovered that she had become a part of a "Disposable Society," a group of people with one commonality. They were unhireable. In this Talk she explores the true cost for a region when we cast aside potential employees who have unique backgrounds or challenges including skills gaps, disabilities, re-entry, ageism or even mothers returning to the workforce. She shares how we can work together to help the Disposable Society become an active part of the workforce again. Rhonnie Brewer, is a community-minded professional who has a passion for building strong relationships. As a member of the State of TN Workforce Development Board, she is keenly focused on the impact of Workforce Development in the Greater Memphis Region. Rhonnie's role of Labor Liaison at United Way of the Mid-South strengthens her commitment to the community and it's well-being. Recently, Ms. Brewer launched Progeny Place, an organization offering support and resources to minority and women-owned businesses, as well as, Workforce Development and job attainment to both unemployed and underemployed residents of the Mid-South.

Brewer's vision is to bring people and resources together in an interconnected network of education, workforce development and entrepreneurship towards a path to middle income. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx