Grief is outlined by five stages; denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally acceptance. In this talk, I will be addressing how to navigate loss with art through the lens of my personal experience. My name is Ryan and I am a senior at Brandeis majoring in Studio Art. As an artist and aspiring art teacher, I have built my life around storytelling through visual imagery. This is most clearly demonstrated in my honors thesis which delves into a variety of topics, but most notably is my experience with grief. Through TEDx, I hope to offer a unique and alternative way of sharing my story—one that not only expresses my journey but also creates a meaningful connection with others who have experienced grief or found solace in art. 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

Have you struggled with social interactions? This talk explores the 3 rules to build your confidence and talk to anyone. Scott Josephson studied English & American Literature and Anthropology at Brandeis. He has spent the past 25 years working in Education Technology and as an Audiovisual professional. Scott is devoted to empowering people as a mentor for international students and rising professionals. TEDx provides a forum where he can share his personal experiences to help others be their best selves. 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 explores how the simple act of observing birds can transform our relationship with nature, mindfulness, and community. Through personal stories, research, and reflection, this talk examines how slowing down to watch birds fosters mental well-being, deepens our sense of belonging, and challenges extractive ways of thinking—ultimately inviting us to see nature not as a resource, but as a shared space we are part of. Gustavo is an undergraduate student in Environmental Studies and Anthropology at Brandeis University with a deep passion for ecology, conservation, and the ways humans connect with nature. With experience in environmental research, advocacy, and photography, he has explored the intersections of science, storytelling, and cultural expression. His work, including wildlife and urban photography, research on Rights to Nature, and community engagement through student organizations, highlights how slowing down and observing the natural world fosters both environmental awareness and personal well-being. 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

We glorify hustle culture, pushing through exhaustion while ignoring a simple solution to burnout: stretch breaks. In this talk, Erica will share a mindful, social approach to stretching that can transform workplaces, classrooms, and daily life—shifting the culture from overworking to working smarter. Erica is a community builder, entrepreneur, and advocate for redefining wellness in everyday life. She founded Stretch Stop to challenge the norms of hustle culture and promote mindfulness through stretch breaks, with a dream of living in a world where people stretch anywhere and anytime. Passionate about innovation and social impact, she is committed to driving meaningful change in the community. A longtime admirer of TED Talks, Erica has always been inspired by their power to spark change and challenge norms. 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

Uncertainty is inevitable, but it is also an opportunity for growth. By building a "portfolio of strength"—a diverse set of skills, experiences, and mindsets—we can navigate uncertainty with confidence and turn risks into rewards. Cansu Isler is a Ph.D. candidate in International Economics and Finance at Brandeis University, specializing in forecasting and risk prediction. As a former research analyst at The Conference Board, she played a key role in economic forecasting for major global economies, including the U.S., Euro Area, and the U.K. She has published a research paper on forecasting the Euro Area economy and authored an article analyzing risks in the Turkish economy. 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 powerful talk, Ella D’Verma breaks down the internal battles we all silently fight—feeling unworthy, playing small, and trying to please everyone. Drawing from her personal journey, she unpacks how self-esteem isn’t a buzzword—it’s the foundation for building the life of your dreams. From growing up middle class and being told to "stay in your lane" to choosing king-sized dreams and setting unapologetic boundaries, Ella shares how true transformation begins when you start acting like your highest self—before anyone else believes in you. With sharp insights, wit, and raw honesty, she redefines what it means to be “born for greatness,” reminding us that success is not about waiting for validation but showing up as who you were always meant to be. Ella D Verma, is a trailblazing trans model and digital content creator with 350k followers on Instagram. Ella has become a powerful voice in the fashion industry and a beacon of hope for many. Her journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and breaking down barriers in a world that often lacks understanding and representation. 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