In “Solving My Problem Served Many,” Dr. Erica Jewel Littleton shares how one teacher’s frustration became the foundation for transformation in education. What began as a personal solution—a way to earn needed professional learning credits—grew into something bigger. Dr. Littleton challenges the notion that teachers are “just teachers,” showing instead how they are innovators, builders, and changemakers shaping the future of learning. Her message is clear: when educators use their creativity to solve real problems, they don’t leave education—they lead it forward. Dr. Erica Jewel Littleton is a serial edupreneur, leadership strategist, and proud graduate of Birmingham City Schools. With 20 years in education, she has served as a teacher, turnaround specialist, and founder of Learning Little People. Her TEDx talk draws from her doctoral research, The Urban Pedagogue to Principal Pipeline, and her mission to elevate educators as system-builders. She is also the creator of The Edupreneurship Academy and co-creator of The Dream Builder Experience. Dr. Erica Jewel is a member of the Leadership Birmingham Class of 2026. 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

A dedicated educator, Mr. Jesse believes that words are more than bridges connecting us to the past and the distant—they are keys that open the hearts of others. In this talk, he explores how language shapes understanding, empathy, and the shared human experience. An educator with a love of language, Jesse Ashcraft strives to share his passion with others in hopes they will discover the power of words for themselves. 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

Stepping out of her comfort zone to run for student council, Zhanqing Lu discovered that the journey of courage matters more than a flawless result. With her lively spirit and fearless attitude, she stands by one belief: being brave is cooler than being perfect. In this talk, she shares how taking bold steps can redefine confidence and self-worth. I am Lu Zhanqing. My name and "Tsinghua University" draw inspiration from the same ancient verse: "The waters are limpid and the woods are splendidly clear." It was perhaps my mother's dream for me to tread the path to prestigious universities and conventional success. But I've always heard a different calling. You'll more likely find me immersed in various "non-academic" pursuits than confined to textbooks. I ran for Student Council. Did I win? No. But I firmly believe that one doesn't have to be perfect to be brave. I choose courage—the courage to be authentically and entirely myself. 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

In this heartfelt talk, IB student Ruier Ma reflects on a transformative journey to Ciying Town, a remote village in Yunnan, China. Through volunteer teaching, introducing 3D printing, and connecting with children living with limited resources, Ruier explores the challenges these children face and the lessons they teach about resilience, curiosity, and hope. Hello everyone! My name is Marui Ma, a DP2 student at NSFZ. I'm fascinated by anything that combines speed, strategy, and teamwork—whether it's on the football pitch, in the Formula 1 paddock, or down the ski slopes. At school, I'm not only an engineering enthusiast but also an active member and key contributor to our FTC robotics team. Building robots is, for me, another powerful way to turn ideas into motion. I hope to eventually bring 3D printing technology to remote mountain villages, using it to show children there a glimpse of the wider world. 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

Captivated by the world of traditional opera, high school student Xue Jinze believes that when the glamour fades, only art and passion remain. From admirer to performer, he has found his own way to share the timeless beauty of Peking Opera with a new generation. In this talk, he reveals how devotion can bridge the past and the present through art. Xue Jinze, a student in the IB program at High School Affiliated to Nanjing Normal University, has been fascinated by traditional Chinese performing arts since primary school, developing a particular passion for Peking Opera in junior high. Over the past six years, he has progressed from a curious observer to an active performer—learning acting skills and even taking the stage in an excerpt from Wen Zhao Pass for a school charity event. He has also founded Peking Opera and Kunqu clubs at his school, connecting classmates with artists from professional troupes. In his TEDx talk, he will explore how Peking Opera can resonate with today’s youth, why traditional operas like it continue to appeal to the younger generation, and what key artistic features make this art form uniquely captivating. 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