Gaza, my homeland, has defined who I am, my dreams for myself, and my dream for the world. Gaza is the unconquerable soul of the Palestinian identity. Gaza has taught me the value and meaning of life. Gaza has made me resilient. My journey from evacuation to Kodaikanal made me grow up in ways I couldn’t imagine, and also exposed me to the world beyond Gaza for the very first time in my life. Yahya AlBatta is a 17-year-old Palestinian student from Gaza. After evacuating from Gaza to Egypt due to the ongoing terrible genocide in his country, he received a scholarship to continue his education at Kodaikanal International School in India a year later. He is now studying the IB Diploma Program. He is passionate about medicine and dream of becoming a doctor, so that he can one day serve his people and help rebuild Gaza. 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

My talk explores how the idea of a singular Indian identity often overlooks the country’s vast diversity, leaving communities like the Nagas feeling alienated within their own nation. By examining this tension, I highlight how forcing sameness harms both the marginalized and the mainstream, and why embracing multiple, coexisting identities is key to a more inclusive India. Bisalila Lydia Seren is a 17-year-old student and senior at Kodaikanal International School. She serves as the Secretary of the KIS Student Council, is a Co-Founder of the Debate Club, and a member of the National Honor Society (NHS). Alongside her leadership roles, she enjoys writing and painting, which reflect her creativity and passion for self-expression. 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

"Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to understand, manage, and express emotions—both our own and other's. Unlike IQ, which measures knowledge and logic, EQ shapes empathy, kindness, and relationships, making it important for success, resilience, and human connection in today’s world. " Ivanka Dalbot Shira is an 18-year-old senior student at Kodaikanal International School. She serves as the Vice President of the KIS Student Council and is the Captain of the Volleyball Team, reflecting her leadership both on and off the court. 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

"It’s the idea that being an **NPC (non-playable character)** can feel more freeing than being the main character—less pressure, fewer expectations, and the comfort of simplicity. Instead of chasing constant spotlight and plot twists, an NPC embraces stability, routine, and the quiet joy of supporting roles in life. " Hasini Koduri is a 17-year-old senior at Kodaikanal International School. She is the Co-Founder of the Debate Club at KIS and has written two research papers on environmental law, showcasing her passion for critical thinking and advocacy. In her free time, Hasini enjoys journaling and reading, which inspire her curiosity and love for learning. 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

This talk gives a real and honest look at what it’s like to be a content creator trying to keep up with an algorithm that never sleeps. It talks about the pressure to stay relevant, the burnout from constantly chasing likes and views, and the struggle between being true to yourself and giving the audience what they want. Through personal stories, the speaker shows how being a creator today means being both the product and the performer, and how that can really mess with your sense of self, happiness, and purpose. Andreas Prasetya Putra is a Law graduate and the CEO of XD Collective, where he focuses on building Indonesia’s creative ecosystem. As an Executive Producer and the driving force behind multiple content brands, he combines his legal background with creativity to open opportunities for young people to pursue careers through passion and digital innovation. Andreas believes that creative education and media literacy are just as vital as formal education, and he actively champions collaboration between the creative industry, law, and community empowerment. 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

Through my journey with dyslexia, I challenge the stigma that equates learning differences with failure. My talk is about transforming shame into strength, breaking stereotypes, and inspiring a future where every unique mind is valued for its unique genius. Dvira Gondalia is a 17-year-old senior at Kodaikanal International School, a passionate entrepreneur and public speaker dedicated to community service and neurodiversity advocacy. An aspiring investor and member of the National Honor Society (NHS), she combines leadership with a commitment to creating positive change in her community. 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