Meet Ally Snell

About Ally

Ally Snell is a perpetually curious intercultural facilitator, creative strategist, and community connector who has worked in government, education, and non-profit sectors across the US and abroad. A proud partner and human/cat/plant mom, you can find her dabbling in endurance sports somewhere on the trails in New Hampshire in her free time.

Q&A

Why do you believe people need to hear your talk? To be honest, it is taking a lot for me to put myself out here as a TEDx speaker, so at the very least I hope others can see that what they have to offer is valuable and worth hearing! 

What are 3 words you would use to describe your talk? Relatable, nerdy, introspective 

What does community here in NH mean to you? Community to me is not only who shows up for you but how you show up for others. Interdependence and interconnectedness. I think because NH is a small and at times geographically isolated state, there is a deeply-held ethos of showing up for each other and relying on one another. Even if it is as simple as shoveling your neighbors sidewalk when you are out doing your own or dropping off a meal for a friend who is unwell. I think service is a part of who we are. 

What made you want to be a part of TEDxAM? I have been a long-time fan of TEDx, and love learning from other people's experiences and insights. I wanted to take on something that would be very challenging for me both personally and professionally, and it is so meaningful for me to be able to take the stage in what has been my home city, having grown up right outside of Manchester. 

The area now known as the Amoskeag Millyard has been a gathering place for people for thousands of years, so the symbolism in being a part of an intentional gathering in this same place is very meaningful to me.  

What do you hope audiences take away after hearing your talk? A shift in perspective and a shared love for some of the oldest organisms on earth (Stromatolites). 

What is a song that encompasses your TEDx talk? Erykah Badu, "Didn't Cha Know?" 

This or That

Coffee or tea? Both, but coffee is a necessity. 

Early bird or night owl? I have become a reluctant early bird. 

Favorite New Hampshire spot? Anywhere in the White Mountains

One word to describe TEDxAM? Accessible 

Favorite way to learn something new? I'm definitely a hands-on, "learning by doing" type, and I also greatly appreciate an engaging speaker. 

Mountains, lakes, or seacoast? On a lake in the mountains.