In this inspiring TEDx talk, Neeraj shares a deeply personal journey of transforming from a struggling seventh-grader, mocked for poor academic performance, to a scientist and academic leader at a prestigious institute. Facing medical challenges and a lack of confidence, Neeraj nearly gave up on education until a move to a new school and a teacher’s unexpected encouragement sparked a turning point. With newfound belief and dedicated effort, they excelled in writing, published in the Times of India, and pursued a remarkable career in science. This 5–8 minute talk explores how a single moment of validation, coupled with resilience and guidance, can ignite untapped potential, offering a powerful message about overcoming setbacks and seizing opportunities to redefine one’s path. Neeraj kumar is the Director of HGS, bringing a wealth of expertise from a distinguished career as a scientist. With a passion for advancing education, he leads with vision, fostering an environment of innovation and academic excellence. His scientific background informs strategic initiatives, integrating evidence-based approaches into institutional growth. Committed to empowering students and faculty, Neeraj drives impactful programs that inspire learning and discovery. His leadership blends analytical rigor with a dedication to nurturing future leaders, making a lasting impact on the educational 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

Environmental Conservation and Climate Change Solutions Description: This TEDx talk explores the devastating impacts of deforestation—drying rivers, disrupted ecosystems, and rising CO2 levels—and presents afforestation as a powerful solution. By planting trees strategically, we can restore balance, sequester carbon, and revive landscapes. Highlighting real-world successes and actionable steps, this talk inspires individuals and communities to combat climate change and rebuild a greener future, one tree at a time. Rajeev Kumar rai is a distinguished Joint Director at IIPE (institute of professional education and entrepreneurship), bringing a wealth of experience from a notable career in defense services. After retiring, he transitioned into academia, driven by a passion for education and leadership. With a strong foundation in discipline and strategic thinking, he contribute significantly to the institution’s growth, fostering academic excellence and innovation. His unique blend of military expertise and academic insight inspires students and colleagues alike, shaping future leaders. Rajeev is an avid believer in concept of sustainable development goals and has an initiative to help india reach its afforestation targets. 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 are all running on invisible code — beliefs, habits, fears — written by family, culture, and society, often without our awareness. But what if we could rewrite it?In this powerful talk, Arti Shirish draws from her 15+ years of experience in employee relations and a life-changing moment during the 2023 Israel conflict to explore how self-recognition, reframing, and reclaiming our inner stories can transform us. With engaging stories and metaphors — from bamboo trees to childhood dreams — she shows how decoding our inner code isn’t just self-work, but the key to unlocking resilience, authenticity, and the future we want to create. With over 15 years of experience in Employee Relations, I have dedicated my career to understanding the intricate dynamics of human behavior in the workplace. My professional journey has been a continuous exploration—an opportunity to observe, learn, and engage with the subtle nuances that define how people connect, communicate, and grow. I consider myself a lifelong seeker, driven by curiosity and a deep respect for the human experience. Each interaction, challenge, and resolution has added to my understanding of empathy, resilience, and leadership. I believe that learning is not confined to formal settings—it happens in conversations, in conflict, and in quiet reflection. My work has taught me that people are complex, and that complexity is a source of insight, not confusion. I bring to every space a learner’s mindset, a listener’s heart, and a commitment to growth—for myself and for those I work with. 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 and insightful talk, Dr. Khyati Shetty challenges the belief that saying no is selfish. Drawing on research, lived experience, and cultural patterns, she unpacks how societal conditioning, especially for women, creates pressure to always say yes and prioritize others. Her message is clear: setting boundaries is not shutting people out, but giving yourself permission to live fully, authentically, and with freedom. Dr. Khyati Shetty, currently serving as the Director of the School of Business at the University of the Fraser Valley, is the recipient of the GCC Education Leaders Award- 2019, 2020, and the GCC Women Leaders Award-2017, 2019, and the former Dean of Curtin University, which is ranked among the top 250 universities in the world. She holds an MBA (Marketing) degree, PG Degree in Human Resource Management, and a Doctorate in Brand Personality Congruence. She was also awarded the Senior Fellow Higher Education Academy (UK) for her contribution to Academic Leadership. Khyati comes with 15+ years of experience working in academia and the industry. She started her career in Corporate Strategy, potential market estimation, product development, and branding. 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 timely and insightful talk, Dr. Fiona MacDonald explores how deep emotional divides, not just policy disagreements, are fueling polarization in our society. Using personal stories and research, she shows how fear shapes our perceptions of safety and danger, and why social media often intensifies these divisions. Her message is clear: in polarized times, connection matters more than debate. Dr. Fiona MacDonald (PhD UBC) is an Associate Professor specializing in Gender Politics. 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 talk, Dr. Erland explores how plants adapt to changing climates and stressful environments. By looking at the role of phytohormones and other resilience mechanisms, the talk highlights what makes survival possible for plants in an increasingly unstable world. Dr. Lauren Erland is Canada Research Chair Tier II in Berry Horticulture and Assistant Professor in the Agriculture Department at the University of the Fraser Valley. Her Berry Environmental Resilience Research and Innovation (BERRI) Lab and Research Centre aim to enhance sustainability and resilience of berry horticultural systems in the Fraser Valley & beyond. 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