Motivated by his personal experiences and family history, he wishes to spread positivity to people of all backgrounds. He strives to dismantle the misconception that people are bound by past grievances. His academic pursuits reflect this passion - since freshman year, Johannse has been active in Model United Nations (MUN), and now as a junior, he is currently writing his IB Extended Essay on the Hiroshima Bombings. With a determined vision for a more compassionate world, Johannse hopes to inspire others to carry the past not as an anchor of division, but as a river that can carry us to a united and compassionate future. Johannse Ven, a junior at Canadian Academy, is dedicated to sharing his perspectives on history and its capabilities to shape society. 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

Having lived in 6 countries and gone to 5 schools she has learned what parts make an inclusive school. By her many experiences, both good and bad, she is ready to share how schools can become more inclusive and welcoming. Lujza hopes that by sharing her experiences she can teach schools and the community how to be more welcoming and how these new kids can help develop schools into better places for learning. Lujza Trskova, a sophomore at Canadian Academy is a Third Culture Kid (TCK). 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

She wanted to share her personal experience on how music has helped shape her identity and why it continues to remain a universal tool that can bring people together. Helena hopes that the powers of music will inspire others to follow their passions and see challenges as opportunities for growth. Helena Fujii is a sophomore at Canadian Academy, who has been passionate about music from a young age. 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

At the age of 16, she faced a diagnosis that changed her life in ways she never expected. Today, she hopes to share her story — not to highlight her own journey, but to offer a glimpse into the quiet struggles and inner battles that many young cancer patients experience. Through the encouragement she received from friends, strangers, and others who had walked similar paths, Jane was inspired to create Weg_.sharing on Instagram — a platform dedicated to offering support, understanding, and hope to cancer patients and their families. She believes that by sharing experiences, we can create spaces where no one has to face their challenges alone. Jane Chou, a junior at Canadian Academy, is a former lymphoma cancer patient who spent a year undergoing chemotherapy. 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

NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker’s personal views and experiences in politics. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfPicture yourself in a grocery store. Ever find yourself curious about someone else’s choice of cereal? Why that brand over another? Is it on sale? A family favorite? The healthier option? Sure, these questions may seem nosy, but maybe that’s not such a bad thing. In this thought-provoking talk, Leonardo Williams, Mayor of Durham, NC, challenges the idea that nosiness is a flaw. Instead, he reframes it as a sign of curiosity, care, and community—a vital ingredient in building stronger, more connected communities that take action together. Mayor Leonardo Williams is a former teacher and school administrator. He was elected to Durham City Council in December 2021 and sworn in as Mayor December 2023. Mayor Williams is a proud graduate of North Carolina Central University, earning a Bachelors in Music Education and a Masters in Educational Leadership. While attending, Leo met his wife, Zweli, who are the proud parents of their son. Mayor Williams was recognized twice by Durham Public Schools as Teacher of the Year and by the Triangle Business Journal with a “40 Under 40” Award for producing innovative practices in education. He transitioned from full-time educator to full-time small business owner when he and his wife opened Zweli's, the first full-service authentic Zimbabwean restaurant in the United States. Mayor Williams continues to apply his experience and passion in education, entrepreneurship, and commitment to addressing deep social issues to make Durham, a united, safe, and prosperous community for all. 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

Last year in a report UN mentioned that it will take is 132 years from now to achieve gender parity on a global scale. That is 1584 months of women being denied education, that many days to give women a seat on the table. It takes us that many years for us as a society to even stand a chance to work towards a sustainable future. Last year in a report UN mentioned that it will take is 132 years from now to achieve gender parity on a global scale. That is 1584 months of women being denied education, that many days to give women a seat on the table. It takes us that many years for us as a society to even stand a chance to work towards a sustainable future. Yashashwi is originally from Nepal, but currently living and learning in Melbourne on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung land. “My journey I believe started in my early teens. I spent my time in workshops with children in Nepal, as we worked towards a better world for girls. That passion and vision continues to drive me today in Plan International Australia and in anything else I do. My roots for advocacy are embedded deep within the struggles that come with navigating the world as a woman of colour. I am excited to be able to give a talk about the intersectionalities of climate change and gender.” 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