Orlando Science Center hosts TEDxYouth event

“The reaction to the pen-pal was amazing,” Catherine said. She also was pleased the children were engaged in the presentations.

“I think half of them don’t realize [the impact], and half of them don’t care, but I care,” Vilá said.

Ten years from now, Vilá wants this to be an event the kids will look back on and remember fondly. Vilá believes there is always room for improvement and that culturally fun events where kids can be themselves can help education efforts.

“It was definitely a challenge putting together an event like this,” said Catherine. “It was also really enjoyable. It was great that we were able to pull it together so quickly.”