If we can equip ourselves with the tools to connect, we can build communities where inclusion isn’t just a word we use—it’s a way we live. And together, we can make sure no one feels left out just because they experience the world a little differently. Rowan Dias is a student, athlete, musician, and advocate dedicated to making sports more inclusive. A member of Deerfield Academy’s Class of 2027, he grew up in Scarsdale, NY, with his parents, Vanessa and Christopher, and his siblings, Christian and Elle. Rowan has always balanced academics, athletics, and music, developing a strong work ethic and a commitment to service along the way.He has played guitar since he was five, appreciating music as a way to connect with others. In addition to his musical interests, he is a multi-sport athlete, competing in lacrosse, box lacrosse, and soccer.As co-founder of Able Athletics, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Rowan has worked to create inclusive sports opportunities for children with disabilities. The organization not only provides adapted athletic programs but also educates volunteers on how to engage with individuals of all abilities, fostering a more inclusive sports 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

Encourage questions. Share a laugh with your patients. You're not just providing care; you are changing lives. Brigitte Cutshall is a two-time breast cancer survivor and a rare primary brain tumor thriver. She's turned her experiences into a powerful platform for health advocacy, founding Gemini Media, published 5 books, and hosts the Real Things Living podcast. Her TEDx talk, "How Curiosity and Humor Could Redefine the Patient Experience," explores how these unexpected tools can empower patients. With 30 years in publishing and communications, Brigitte believes our most vulnerable stories hold the greatest power. She inspires others to actively pursue well-being, finding her own balance through writing, running, and time in nature with her family and dogs. 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

Give kids what they need so that, one day, they can stand on this stage like me and tell the world that they were supported with a caring environment that nurtured a strong sense of self. Reagan Warren is a New York native and a sophomore at Deerfield Academy. Born with Charcot-Marie-Tooth, a debilitating motor and sensory neuropathy, she chose to challenge herself by attending boarding school and subsequently realized how stigmatized disabilities were among those her age. She believes knowledge is power, which inspired her to speak out about the importance of communication and the strength that comes with fully understanding oneself. Her disability doesn’t define her, though, as Reagan is an avid music enthusiast, major motorsports fan, casual movie critic, and a self proclaimed connoisseur of the Fine Arts. This talk is dedicated to her father, Phil Warren. 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

How do humans keep up when the world is evolving faster than ever? In this talk, entrepreneur Faizan Syed shares a powerful framework for continuous personal evolution—designed for the age of AI, remote work, and accelerated change. Drawing parallels from biological survivors like sharks to modern AI disruption, he introduces three practical tools: daily learning, everyday exploration, and structured reflection. Framed through a powerful metaphor—updating yourself like software—this talk is a toolkit for staying relevant, resilient, and ready for whatever comes next.Faizan Syed is the founder and CEO of East River, a leading digital communications agency based in Pakistan, known for its disruptive creativity and brand storytelling. Over the past decade, Faizan has built a dynamic career at the intersection of business, media, and technology. He has lived and worked across countries, founded multiple ventures, and continues to operate across several time zones.He is also the host of the popular podcast "Behind the Grind," where he has interviewed over 100 guests including founders, artists, athletes, and innovators. Through these conversations, Faizan explores what it truly takes to grow, adapt, and succeed in an ever-changing world.Known for his thought leadership on adaptability, personal reinvention, and digital transformation, Faizan brings a unique global perspective shaped by experience—not theory. Whether he’s behind the mic or behind a brand campaign, his mission is simple: help people and businesses evolve intentionally in a world that won’t slow down. 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

As AI reshapes the future of work and renders traditional skills obsolete, what truly makes humans irreplaceable? In this sharp and witty talk, entrepreneur and podcast host Saadi Mansuri argues that it’s not degrees or coding bootcamps, but our ability to navigate uncertainty, improvise in real-time, and thrive in chaos. Drawing on insights from everyday life and his unconventional journey into tech, Saadi reframes unpredictability—not as a disadvantage, but as the ultimate competitive edge in an AI-driven world. Saadi Mansuri is a seasoned marketing leader and AI entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience at global brands. He holds a BSc (Hons) in Economics from LUMS and an MBA in Marketing from IBA Karachi.Driven by curiosity, Saadi co-founded Nostrad.AI, a forward-thinking tech startup focused on AI-driven marketing and analytics. As CEO, he helps organizations navigate digital transformation by blending artificial intelligence with real-world adaptability. 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 a world quick to judge and eager to categorize, how do we reclaim the power to define ourselves? In this thought-provoking talk, Tara Uzra Dawood explores how cultural norms, gender expectations, and societal labels can box people in—especially women. Drawing from her work as a business leader and advocate, she reveals how shedding external definitions unlocks personal freedom and meaningful change. This is a powerful call to unbox identity, not just by breaking free of what others expect, but by intentionally deciding who you are, on your own terms. Tara Uzra Dawood is a visionary leader and advocate redefining what it means to lead with authenticity. As Founder and President of the Dawood Global Foundation and Ladies Fund, she champions women's financial empowerment, entrepreneurship, and leadership through capacity-building initiatives and landmark recognition programs.Tara is also the CEO and Founder of 786 Investments Ltd (formerly Dawood Capital), Pakistan’s first publicly listed Shariah-compliant asset management company.She is a global speaker and board member of leading social impact organizations, Tara’s mission is to dismantle societal boxes—whether cultural, gendered, or professional—so individuals can define themselves on their own terms. As a pioneer: she became the first female CEO of a non‑banking financial institution in Pakistan, launched the country’s first awards celebrating women’s leadership, and continues to uplift underrepresented voices . 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