When we study history in school, we consider it to be a record of facts. But how far is this truthful? We will look at how history can be shaped and influenced by politics, ideology and cultural perspecitve. In many cases, what we learn is not the full story, but a version that reflects the priorities of the people who document it. This will be done by looking at recent and widely known historical events such as the Cold War, WWI and WWII, and looking at the impact this has had on how they are taught and remembered. In looking at all this, it begs the question of can we consider to be factual? To explore this we will look at interpretations from Foucault and Nietzsche to develop our understanding of this concept. Overall this talk will highlight the importance of looking at multiple perspectives in order to understand the past more deeply and gain a sense of the winder picture. Raffaella Poggio-Magnus is a student at Francis Holland School. She is currently studying History, Politics and Economics A-Level. She plans to study History and Philosophy at University. 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

Most people settle for mediocrity because they believe it’s safer to settle than to risk more. Jo Rose shows why authenticity and courage are the true antidotes to mediocrity, and how leading with them can transform your life and your impact. Jo Rose is a meditation guide, entrepreneur, and creator of A Zen Mind, a globally recognized podcast. Blending personal development with grounded strategy, Jo has built a thriving business rooted in mindfulness, energy work, and conscious creation. She helps people align with their highest selves through meditation, courses, and custom practices that integrate mindset tools and somatic techniques. Known for her accessible approach, Jo makes deep transformation feel practical, inspiring, and magnetic. Beyond her work, she is passionate about empowering others to step into their authenticity, expand their vision, and create lives of freedom, purpose, and alignment. Her mission is simple: to show that choosing presence, clarity, and inner alignment can unlock limitless potential. 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

When her daughter Elizabeth was born at 29 weeks with mitochondrial disease, Annette Hines learned firsthand how fear can paralyze us—leading to missed opportunities, poor decisions, and stolen hope in a world of genuine scarcity. Through seventeen precious years of caregiving, Elizabeth became her greatest teacher, showing her the transformative difference between living with a scarcity mindset versus an abundance mindset, even as she faced a world where belonging always required someone's special effort rather than being automatically expected. Now, twelve years after Elizabeth's passing, Annette reveals how we can act despite our fears, build community, and create a world where the next Elizabeth won't spend her life fighting for basic belonging—because hope, not fear, is what makes us stronger together. Attorney, mother, author, advocate, and host of Parenting Impossible - The Special Needs Survival Podcast, knows firsthand just how complex and overwhelming the legal systems and processes are for parents of children with special needs. Amidst the grief of losing her beloved Elizabeth, Annette realized that life was giving her a “second chance” to use her extensive legal expertise to help families who are going through the same challenges she faced. She authored her life story of her and Elizabeth’s powerful journey of hope in her memoir, Butterflies and Second Chances. 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

Catherine “Catz” Jalandoni explores how every person we encounter leaves an imprint on us. Her story is an inspiring reminder that both positive and negative experiences can become the fuel for growth, and that our response — not the impact itself — shapes who we become. This talk challenges you to rethink every influence in your life and transform it into your own engine for growth. Catherine Denise Jalandoni, better known as Catz, is the Executive Director of the Institute of Corporate Directors Philippines. A passionate advocate for ethical AI, governance, and women’s leadership in tech, she also leads CSJ Events Management, driving advocacy-driven projects and social impact initiatives. As a mother of five and a recognized voice in AI and innovation, Catz inspires others to take space, own their expertise, and push for meaningful change. 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

For decades, we’ve been told that 20/20 eyesight means perfect vision—but eyesight and vision are not the same thing. Neuro-Optometrist Dr. Bryce Appelbaum reveals how hidden functional vision problems masquerade as learning difficulties, attention issues, and even behavioral challenges, affecting children and adults alike. He shows how Vision Performance Training can rewire the eye-brain connection to restore clarity, unleash confidence, and unlock your full potential in the modern world. Dr. Bryce Appelbaum is a neuro-optometrist and the founder of MyVisionFirst, a premier private practice specializing in functional vision care. He is the creator of Vision Performance Training, a groundbreaking approach that rewires the eye-brain connection to enhance performance, accelerate post-concussion recovery, and build long-term visual resilience. Through his work with MyVisionFirst, ScreenFit, and neuro-optometric rehab, Dr. Appelbaum has helped thousands, from students to elite athletes, thrive in a screen-dominated world. A board-certified Fellow of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development, Dr. Appelbaum is redefining how we think about sight because 20/20 isn’t the full story. 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

Shammi invites us to rewild both our landscapes and our minds, using art, technology, and storytelling to rediscover awe and responsibility toward Earth. Through immersive visuals, real-time interaction, and nature-based digital storytelling, the talk demonstrates how creativity can inspire climate action beyond statistics. The core message is clear: we protect what we feel connected to, and imagination is the bridge. Designed for youth, educators, and change-makers, this talk offers fresh ways to see sustainability as a lived and co-created reality. Join the journey to reimagine our relationship with nature and spark action rooted in wonder, not fear. #RewildImagination #ClimateAction #NatureAndTech #SustainabilityMatters #ArtForChange #FutureWeChoose #TechAndArt Shammi Raj Balla is the founder of Sensistan, India’s first immersive Technology & Art Museum in Goa, which integrates art, science, and technology to create sensory experiences. Shammi currently serves as 1/3 CEO of Param Foundation, an organization promoting Science, Open Innovation, Art, History, and Culture through global experience centres, makerspaces, innovation labs, and upskilling programs. Educated at BITS Pilani and New York University, and with two decades of global experience in finance, technology, and culture, he blends innovation, education, and art to build experience centres, music festivals, and museums. His work has been showcased in Europe, Asia, and the United States. He has also served as an Advisor in the Ministry of Culture, Government of India (Museums Department) and as a Visiting Professor at the Royal University in Cambodia. 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