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Flowing like water -- innovation and human rights | Chris Fabian | TEDxArendal

2,970 views · Published 22 September 2014 · 15:45 · Indexed 14 October 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2014 · Nonprofits & Activism

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This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Chris Fabian is a technologist and mobile
designer, who runs UNICEFs Innovation Unit. In this insightful talk he describes using technology and innovation both in poor areas, but also how technology used in disaster areas often are faced with different limitations than we account for. How do we get around the limitations, and how do the local people contribute to create modern solutions that solve issues a modern and well-funded new-York based company cannot?

Christopher Fabian co-created and has co-lead UNICEF’s Innovation Unit in New York since 2007. Christopher believes that technology is not the end-product of innovation, but a principal driver of new ways of thinking about development problems. 

Christopher is most proud of his work identifying, mentoring and promoting local leaders, designers and innovators around the world. Convinced that global, authentic, and humble engagement among academia, the private sector and civil society can create global change, Christopher has taught and lectured at NYU, the Art Center, Columbia University, Harvard University and IIT Delhi among other universities.

Prior to joining UNICEF in 2006, Christopher taught in Lebanon and launched start-ups in East Africa and Egypt. He holds degrees in Philosophy from American University in Cairo, and in Media Studies from the New School in New York. In 2013, he was recognized as one of TIME Magazine's 100 most influential people.

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)

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