Success is bulit on the foundation of impact. Each individual has their own unique opportunities to make their impact linger, whether in their own community or the whole society. A researcher at Render Climate, the experimental climate mitigation sub-branch of the Manila Observatory. As a woman in STEM and an environmental activist, she advocates sustainable practices and explores innovative solutions for a cleaner, more resilient future. 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 self-perception of individuals often leads them to be comsumed by their insecurities. However, through the act of seeing rather than watching one's self, one can learn to love. A theology professor at Ateneo de Manila University and host of The Millennial Prof Podcast. His work delves into the challenges young people face today, offering insights on faith, personal growth, and navigating societal challenges. 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

Shruthika Nunna is a classical Bharatanatyam dancer who has been training since the age of four. Today, she performs a song called Kuzaloothi, a song dedicated to lord Krishna and his flute playing. Shruthika Nunna is a current Junior at Folsom High School. She has been practicing Bharatanatyam since the age of 4 years old. She has won numerous awards such as the 2021 World Dancers International Dance Contest and the California Telugu Samithi 2023 competition. She is also working on her degree in Bharatanatyam by Sampada. Shruthika enjoys learning about classical dance forms as a way to connect to her roots and discover more about her culture. 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

When you think of a leader, you might picture someone bold, loud, and commanding. But leadership isn’t always about being the loudest in the room. In this talk, Samara Shaheen explores the power of quiet leadership, and how listening, empathy, and authenticity can inspire teams and create lasting change. Drawing on personal experiences and examples from world leaders, Samara shows that true leadership isn’t about speaking the loudest, but lifting others up. Samara Shaheen is a freshman at Folsom High School. She has been in Hands4Hope, a community service club, for three years, and has been treasurer and vice president of the club. She has earned 150+ service hours through organizing and participating in many fundraisers for non profit organizations, such as a carnival held last year for a nonprofit called WeEmbrace, and has won the National President’s Volunteer Service Award twice in recognition for her work. She was also a part of the Speech and Debate team in middle school, and has participated in many tournaments. Passionate about science, math, English, and reading, Samara hopes to do something in the future that combines her academic interests with her leadership philosophy. 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

Trapped in an ocean of exams, countless students feel their worth is defined by a single number. This talk begins with a deeply personal story of navigating a system where scores become a tangible hierarchy, crushing individuality and spirit. It then asks a critical question: what is the link between an education that demands conformity and a society's willingness to challenge injustice? Using the powerful example of China's White Paper Movement, it argues that the courage to question flawed systems—whether in the classroom or the public square—is the most vital lesson of all, and a passionate plea for an education that fosters both a strong sense of self and the bravery to demand a more just world. Hansi (Henry) Lin is a junior who transferred to Folsom High School from China recently. He was the grade leader and student council president at his previous school. Additionally, he has joined the volunteering program at Folsom History Museum. Henry loves golf, vocal music, and hosting; he has won over 40 championships in golf competitions and currently sings in the school chamber choir. As a student who has experienced two distinct educational systems, he has developed a unique perspective on the impact of cultural and academic environments on personal growth and ambition. Motivated by a desire to challenge traditional notions of success, he encourages others to pursue their true passions beyond scores and rankings, aiming to inspire change through self-awareness and innovation. 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 often face the dreadful feelings and habits of procrastination and self-doubt, but could they be connected? Even better, could there be a solution to conquering them? Angela Joy, a rising sophomore at Folsom High School, dives into the topic of exploring a resource that provides explanations and practice, turning her own procrastination and self-doubt into confidence. With a unique perspective on technology’s power, she reveals how when used wisely it can offer customized support to further help us overcome problems. By exploring existing tools in our community, we can find solutions to hurdles, helping transform what seemed to be impossible to feel more possible.  Angela is an ambitious, hardworking, and creative freshman at Folsom High School. She is passionate about technology and its real-world applications. She is eager to explore the countless possibilities that technology offers for the future and is committed to expanding her knowledge about the field. In her spare time you can find her reading, spending time with close ones, or being around her pets. 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