SpeakersLive in the NOW, with Focus on the FUTURE
Gaelynn Lea
Gaelynn Lea won NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Contest in 2016, and she’s been on the road ever since playing her unique mix of haunting original songs and traditional fiddle tunes. So far the singer-songwriter and violinist has appeared in 43 states and 7 countries – she’s graced the stage of renowned venues like Nashville’s Music City Roots, The Kennedy Center, House of Blues and even BBC World News. In addition to performing and recording, Gaelynn also does speaking engagements about disability rights, finding inner freedom, and accessibility in the arts. In recent years, she has used her music as a platform to advocate for people with disabilities and to promote positive social change. Gaelynn is currently working on a memoir about her touring adventures and disability advocacy that she plans to release in 2022.
Asha Shoffner
Keynote speaker at MEEC. She will speak Saturday, Oct. 5.
Asha (pronouns: she/her/hers) is a queer woman of color and first generation immigrant who has called Saint Paul home for over 30 years. She is an environmental and outdoor educator, innovator, adventurer, proud auntie, and the founder of Fiwygin Outdoors and ASHA consulting. When not working, Asha can be found running local trails, riding her bike, playing guitar, hanging out with her three nephews, dismantling oppressive systems, and eating as much protein as she can.