Majala Mlagui speaks on behalf of gem miners, who risk life and limb for the colored gems we wear — and are rarely paid a fair price. She spoke onstage at the TED Fellows session of TED2016, February 15-19, 2016. Photo: Ryan Lash / TED

Some people think outside the box. TED Fellows think outside the lines and corners, but also outside the medical establishment and media landscape — even outside the solar system.

Below, read short recaps of the talks in the first session of TED Fellows talks at TED2016, from a group of trailblazers just getting lift-off …

Beautiful music on the kulintang. Filipina-American composer Susie Ibarra plays the kulintang, a traditional gong from Southeast Asia. As she strikes each of the eight brass bells with her wooden drumsticks, it creates a melody that’s upbeat, bright and ethereal. She plays an original piece that contemplates the beautiful waters that surround the Philippines.

Ears, grown on apples.