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Monday 15 September 2014

Love Your Sister, Samuel Johnson: TEDxQUT VIDEO

I love this.

Samuel Johnson is the Australian actor behind the 'Love Your Sister' campaign; in 2013 rode his unicycle 1003.4 kilometres between Sydney and Melbourne to raise $500,000 for CanTeen and for his sister Connie, who was diagnosed with cancer.

(Samuel has also initiated a film making program for 'at risk' teens through Open Family, as featured in ABC's 'Australian Story').

Samuel has just uploaded his TEDTalks to social media (see below). Here is how the whole concept is described:

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)

And so, here is Samuel's video. He captioned it on social media like this:


I got asked to do a TED talk. I got so paranoid that I avoided the thought of it till the night before, then stayed up all night trying to cobble something together. I look like a washed out junkie and I'm all shaky during it, but I assure you it's just fatigue and nerves! It's the real me though, for better or worse. xsj
Here's the TEDTalks full video:



The YouTube description says:

'This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. What do you want your legacy to be? Samuel Johnson's world record marathon unicycle ride around Australia began with this question to his sister who had been diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer. In this beautiful talk Sam shares, not only what he learned while raising over 1 million dollars for cancer research, but also life lessons we can all take to heart. 

Samuel Johnson has established himself as one of Australia’s busiest actors and voice over artisits. He has been working in television, film, theatre and radio for over 20 years, in shows such as the Secret Life of Us, Rush, Underbelly and Wilfred.

In addition to acting, in 2003 Samuel rode his unicycle 1003.4 kilometres between Sydney and Melbourne to raise $500,000 for CanTeen and has initiated a film making program for 'at risk' teens through Open Family, as featured in ABC's 'Australian Story'.

This year, Sam is riding his unicycle again, this time around Australia, with the goal being to keep his promise to his sister Connie that he would complete this ride, raise $1 million, set a new Guinness World Record for the most distance travelled on a unicycle AND spread Connie’s message of breast cancer awareness. Through the Love Your Sister organisation, Sam has now completed his marathon and in doing so raised over $1.5 million dollars.

Samuel consulted all the experts, took none of their advice and set off on the challenge of a lifetime. He made a promise and through determination he kept it! He will be with us at TEDxQUT to share his experiences.'


What a man! Such love for his sister and her family. Such dedication to keeping at his 
cause at all times, his passion never waning. His eyes firmly on the prize: keeping Connie as happy and looked after.

Photo: Gina Millicia

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