Aanya champions interdisciplinary thinking showing how blending diverse ideas leads to groundbreaking innovation. Aanya Gupta is a junior at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley who has been fascinated with STEM since she was young. Her strong background in competitive math has helped her build critical thinking and problem solving skills. Aanya has published research on computational approaches to improving vaccine development and effectiveness, presented at national conferences, and won the CMI-PB Vaccine Challenge with this experience. Aanya intends to study computer science in college, continuing to work in the intersection of computer science and biology. In her free time, Aanya loves to dance, having learnt a variety of styles since she was three. She is dedicated towards sharing this passion with kids and seniors alike through her teaching and non-profit dedicated to spreading joy through movement. Aanya’s goal is to do her best in bringing about progress and innovation to uplift the community around her. 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

The speaker believes that confidence is often misunderstood. True confidence is a clear understanding of oneself and remaining unaffected by the outside world. It has two forms: explicit and implicit. Confidence comes from courage, and courage comes from sufficient preparation. 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

Derek discussed the topic of life and death, asking the audience to consider how one can live forever. He shared his personal experiences and thoughts on the fear of death, the cycle of life, and the importance of making one's life meaningful. Derek referenced the movie "Coco" to illustrate the idea that as long as someone remembers us, we continue to exist. He encouraged the audience to cherish life, appreciate the present, and strive to be remembered for a greater purpose. 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

Aspirations, Challenges and Success go hand in hand. Higher the aspiration, higher is the magnitude of failure, struggle, sacrifice and eventually, success. The difference between a runner on the ground and the one on the podium is the ability to rise beyond mental barriers. The way to success involves setting the right goals, being prepared to struggle, learning the right qualities, and focusing on the process instead of worrying about the result. Start early, adapt to situations, be self-reliant, and let your direction be defined by yourself. Greatness lies in persistence and the willingness to sacrifice for your aspirations. Professor Seyed E. Hasnain, a Padma Shri recipient, is renowned for his work in DNA fingerprinting and tuberculosis. He led India's Basmati rice DNA case, ensuring economic benefits and establishing a certification system. As Vice Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad, he elevated it to India's top university. A global scientist and policy-maker, he drafted the DNA Profiling Bill and received Germany’s Order of Merit. His contributions span science, education, and institution-building. 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

Mayank Arya shared his inspiring journey from the Merchant Navy to co-founding Yes Madam in 2017 with his brother. He recalled surviving a life-threatening robbery in Liberia that left him severely injured, an experience that deepened his resilience and shaped his vision. Determined to offer transparent, hygienic home-salon services while empowering women professionals, he built a brand rooted in trust. His story reflects discipline, empathy, and a relentless drive to create meaningful impact. Mayank Arya, co-founder and CEO of Yes Madam, transitioned from the Merchant Navy to entrepreneurship in 2017, launching a home-salon service with his brother Aditya. Their model offers transparent, hygienic beauty treatments at ₹6 per minute. Originating from Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, Mayank’s resilience was shaped by surviving a violent robbery in Liberia in 2013. His vision focuses on empowering customers and setting high service standards in India’s wellness and beauty industry.Mayank Arya, co-founder and CEO of Yes Madam, transitioned from the Merchant Navy to entrepreneurship in 2017, launching a home-salon service with his brother Aditya. Their model offers transparent, hygienic beauty treatments at ₹6 per minute. Originating from Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, Mayank’s resilience was shaped by surviving a violent robbery in Liberia in 2013. His vision focuses on empowering customers and setting high service standards in India’s wellness and beauty industry. 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 focuses on how robotic elephants are being used as a humane and innovative alternative to live elephants in cultural and religious traditions. Its explores their role in preserving heritage while preventing animal cruelty, improving safety for humans, and leveraging technology to honor rituals sustainably. It highlights the intersection of tradition, ethics, and modern engineering to create solutions that respect both cultural values and animal welfare. Khushboo Gupta is a prominent animal rights activist and a key figure at People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India. As a dedicated advocate for animal welfare, she has been instrumental in leading campaigns to promote cruelty-free practices, raise awareness about animal rights, and push for legislative changes to protect animals. Her work often focuses on ending animal cruelty in industries such as fashion, entertainment, and food. Khushboo's efforts have significantly contributed to PETA India's mission of creating a more compassionate world for animals. 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