From Extra to Essential | Emily Magera | TEDxSioux Falls

About this video

Emily pulls back the curtain on how communication works on a television set, from one-way directives to collaborative meaning-making, and how one actor’s simple decision to shake hands with the “extras” transformed the entire energy of a production. Drawing on symbolic interactionism and servant leadership theory, she reveals a powerful truth: people don’t rise because of status. They rise because someone chose to see them. This is a talk for anyone who has ever felt blurry in someone else’s story and for anyone who has the power to bring someone else into focus. Being essential isn’t about how many scenes you’re in. It’s about how fully you show up for the ones you have. Emily Magera is a communication specialist, choreographer, and fine arts educator based in South Dakota. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and Theatre from the University of Sioux Falls and Master’s degree in Communication and Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University. Before returning to South Dakota, Emily spent time in New York City working as a background actor on major film and television productions, including The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Maestro. Those experiences, often spent “professionally blurry” in the background, deeply shaped her understanding of communication, hierarchy, and servant leadership. Today, Emily is passionate about building environments where every person has the opportunity to lead and feel seen. Her work centers on developing future leaders and creating spaces where influence is rooted in service, connection, and intentional communication. 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