Five Questions with Stuart Taylor

What motivates you?

Creativity. And cookies.

What do you do for a living, and why?

I use data to tell stories. I work with iDE — a group that uses innovative design to develop products and services that offer life-changing value to poor, rural families. I do this because I love to travel, I get to work with smart, creative and compassionate people and, most importantly, because it really works.

Which TED talk do you think everyone should watch?

Hans Rosling: New insights on poverty

Why are you excited to speak at TEDxManitoba?

I have been a fan of TED talks ever since I got my first iPod. This is a great venue to join a growing chorus of voices challenging mainstream imagery and cliches, asking us to re-imagine what poverty looks like in different parts of the world … and what we can do about it.

What is your idea worth spreading?

If we are serious about tackling poverty, we need to lighten up.