Sean Cheng finished in the top 10 in the 2018 National Geographic Bee and has done lots of work related to geographical advocacy. Ultimately, he hopes to empower others by inspiring them to learn more about the world. Geography is one of the most underfunded and least taught subjects, and yet, it’s now one of the most important. In a world marred by global conflict, climate change, and other issues of unprecedented scale, a basic understanding of the people and places that shape our planet is essential as we seek solutions to problems old and new. Sean Cheng is a senior at Exeter High School and has always been captivated by the people and places that shape our planet. He placed in the top 10 of the 2018 National Geographic Bee and is the cofounder of GeoGenius, an organization promoting geographic education that finished runnerup in the 2020 NFTE Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge. Ultimately, he hopes to empower others by inspiring them to learn more about the world. Sean has conducted research with various university professors in physics and Earth science. Sean enjoys playing soccer, traveling, speedcubing, and spending time with friends. 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