Ever been told that caring about how you look makes you shallow? Our next speaker challenges that idea. Tanvi Boddupalli shares how putting effort into your appearance isn’t about vanity—it’s about self-expression, confidence, and owning your identity. This talk is about how something as small as getting ready in the morning can create powerful ripples in how we think, feel, and connect with the world. Tanvi is currently a junior at IMSA who is involved with groups like the debate team and serves as the director of a national nonprofit called Project Save Our Skin. She is passionate about challenging the stereotypes surrounding physical appearance. Coming from a school where looks were heavily emphasized, she was taken aback by the judgment she faced at IMSA for something she used to be praised for. In her talk, Tanvi will discuss how taking pride in your appearance isn’t shallow—it’s a form of self-expression that can have meaningful impacts. 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

Annie Zhou is a passionate advocate for empowering young people through financial education. She believes that financial literacy is more than just understanding money - it is a tool for independence, confidence, and opportunity. In her work, Annie has seen how a lack of financial knowledge can limit choices and create barriers, while the right skills can transform futures. In this talk, she explores common misconceptions about money, the importance of accessible financial education, and how equipping the next generation with these skills can strengthen both individual lives and communities as a whole. Annie Zhou is the founder of MoneyWise, a youth-led initiative equipping thousands of students with practical money management skills. She has worked with schools internationally to integrate financial literacy into classrooms and was awarded the 2023 Sir John Monash Youth Leadership Award for her impact. Annie is passionate about creating an inclusive financial future where every young person has the tools to thrive. 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

Gabriel's insightful talk tackles a crucial question: How does AI truly interpret our data? Using a clever, relatable metaphor, he strips away the common misconceptions that make us think AI is inherently "smart" or "not smart." He clarifies that AI merely processes what it receives. Gabriel then shares his key to harnessing AI's full power, a framework he calls REAL: Reveal your data, Explain your intent, Act with clear prompts, and Learn. Gabriel Owajian — a voice of caution in the age of AI.Artificial Intelligence is evolving fast—and while it’s built on public data with safety measures in place, Gabriel warns that these systems aren’t as secure as we think. In his TEDx talk, he’ll reveal how techniques like web scraping and prompt engineering can bypass safeguards and put personal data at risk.Join Gabriel as he exposes the hidden vulnerabilities of AI—and why awareness is our first line of defense. 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 does your family choose your life before you even understand who you are? This is a story of the struggle for freedom and identity — from the moment your future is decided through tradition, to the day you dare to love quietly, secretly, but truly. It reflects the pain when identity clashes with family expectations and the right to love freely. This talk honors those whose very existence is still an act of bravery. Mamikon Hovsepyan is an LGBT+ activist and human rights defender based in Armenia. He began his activism in 2002. Mamikon advocates for LGBT+ rights and broader human rights both nationally and internationally. He serves as advocacy officer of the Eastern European Coalition for LGBT+ Equality, co-secretary of ILGA-Europe’s executive board, and board member of Human Rights House Yerevan. He also contributes to national HIV/AIDS response efforts. Mamikon holds degrees in Sociology and Human Rights and Democratization, focusing on health, gender, and equality. His work has earned him international recognition, including the Bob Hepple Equality Award (2017), the Changemaker Award (2018, LA), and the Soul of Stonewall Award (2018, Berlin). 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 thought-provoking talk, Edgar traces the evolution of human rights — from their origins to their modern meaning — revealing how they are not only legal safeguards but also a foundation for collective prosperity. Drawing from his own life, he shares a personal story about the consequences of failing to protect human rights in Armenia, offering a powerful reminder of what is at stake when they are neglected. Born and raised in Yerevan, Armenia, Edgar Zatikyan, 25, has a background in tourism, human rights, and student activism. His leadership as Student Council President at Brusov State University demonstrate his commitment to positive change. With a foundation in political science, Edgar also enjoys urban planning, gaming, and reading. Recognized for his achievements, including getting the 2nd place of the "Best Student Award" in Armenia in 2022. Edgar is passionate about contributing to the growth of individuals and communities, defense of justice and human rights. 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

NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of technology, health, and development. The relationship between screen time and public health warrants further scientific investigation. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfHow is the screen time epidemic changing our brilliant and sensitive brains? And what do these changes mean for the future of the human species? In this talk, Morwenna explores these questions from a social, psychological and evolutionary perspective, giving some advice on how to foster better social connections despite the prevalence of distraction by our phones. Morwenna Lewis is a UKCP Psychotherapist and Parenting Coach. She specialises in helping families where addiction to screens and tech have fragmented the family system and left the parents and children experiencing disconnection and grief. She works in a systemic way, focusing on the relationships and attachment styles within the family as the addiction is often a symptom of underlying disconnection and emotional isolation.This talk was recorded as part of TEDxAberystwyth, learn more at: https://tedxaberystwyth.com/ 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