Sifti Kaur’s talk explores the journey of finding one’s “North Star”—not as a fixed goal but as a process of curiosity-driven exploration. Opening with an interactive “sit down if…” activity, she invites the audience to reflect on their own learning and passions. Through humorous anecdotes—such as her brief stint in cricket or her obsession with podcasts—and metaphors like a jigsaw puzzle without a box image, Sifti argues that trying new things simply because you want to is enough reason. She emphasizes that passion is not innate but cultivated through action, and that quitting activities isn’t failure but an essential step in shaping one’s unique path. Interspersed with surprising fun facts, her talk is both playful and thought-provoking, urging listeners to embrace messy, non-linear growth. Her message is clear: don’t wait for clarity or perfection; take every opportunity to explore. Above all, “don’t close doors you haven’t opened yet.”
Sifti Kaur is a curious and multifaceted Grade 12 student with a passion for exploring diverse fields. A professionally trained Kathak dancer for over a decade, she is now eligible to teach, showcasing her dedication and mastery. Her leadership roles as editor-in-chief of her school's magazine and cultural secretary highlight her ability to take initiative and connect with others. Sifti's unique blend of creative and academic pursuits in economics and chemistry reflects her drive to learn and grow in every area she explores. 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
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- 8:40The Psychology of Success | Alieza Singh | TEDxHIXS YouthAlieza Singh’s deeply personal talk redefines success, emphasizing resilience and self-growth over perfection and universal approval. She candidly recounts her teenage struggles with bullying, isolation, and the pressure to fit in, painting a vivid picture of the emotional rollercoaster of adolescence. A pivotal conversation with her father helped her realize that nothing stood between her and her ideal self except her own fears. This shift empowered her to stop chasing validation and start investing in academics, extracurriculars, and self-improvement. Even when she ran for student council and narrowly lost, Alieza found strength in failure, reframing it as a necessary part of growth. With maturity and vulnerability, she shares how setbacks have built her confidence, resilience, and perspective. Her central lesson—that success is “becoming better than who you were yesterday”—offers an inspiring reminder that failure isn’t the end but a stepping stone to strength, courage, and future triumphs. Alieza Singh is a versatile student and performer who combines academic curiosity with a passion for creative expression. Currently pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, she is deeply interested in understanding people, cultures, and ideas through subjects such as Economics, Psychology, and the Arts. Outside the classroom, Alieza has explored multiple forms of dance and music, which have shaped her identity as both an artist and a leader. She believes in the power of creativity to build connections, foster inclusion, and inspire change. With a strong balance of discipline and imagination, she aims to use her voice and platform to encourage others to embrace self-expression and discover confidence in their individuality. 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
- 6:48How to become a master of happiness | Ryu Julius | TEDxKatanoHappiness, the speaker contends, is not an emotion dictated by external conditions, but a concept we define for ourselves.During his travels, he encountered villagers living in material poverty, yet radiating with calm, genuine smiles. This sparked a powerful question: Who is truly unhappy? Further deepening this inquiry was a striking fact from psychology: “happiness” does not appear on Plutchik’s renowned Wheel of Emotions.These insights gave rise to a new educational framework—JF Education (Joy & Fulfillment)—designed to redefine how we understand happiness.In this talk, the speaker invites us to shift focus from what we lack to the value already within our reach.Happiness is not something to be granted by others, but something we awaken to ourselves. Each of us holds the power to elevate our own happiness—and that of those around us. That is the heart of this talk. “Happiness is not something to be found, but something to be created.” — An educator who lives by this belief. Ryu Julius Iwano is the founder of the R. Julius Educational Foundation and the creator of JF Education®, a philosophy-based educational system that empowers individuals to create their own happiness and live fulfilling lives. At the age of 12, Julius was introduced to a Jewish family when his sister married into their lineage. There, he encountered generations-old wisdom centered around the idea that “happiness is cultivated through meaning.” Inspired by these teachings, he went on to develop a unique educational framework that combines neuroscience, behavioral psychology, and cognitive psychology. At the heart of JF Education® are four core values: Love, Contribution, Gratitude, and Happiness. Through free schools in developing countries and corporate training programs, Julius is spreading a ripple effect of well-being—from individuals to society—through transformative education. 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
