What if the world’s most creative problem-solvers are being overlooked simply because they’re too polite to interrupt? In this witty, sharp, and heartfelt talk, 12-year-old Kaia Vernon-Oliveira challenges our assumptions about what giftedness looks like, especially in girls. With humor, research, and lived experience, Kaia unpacks how gender bias in education sidelines gifted girls and why it’s time to change the narrative.Equal parts personal story and powerful call to action, this talk is a must-watch for parents, educators, and anyone who cares about unlocking human potential.About the Speaker:
Kaia Vernon-Oliveira is a profoundly gifted student, writer, and performing artist who attends Nasri Academy in Las Vegas and the Davidson Young Scholars program. Known for her bold curiosity, emotional depth, and comedic timing, Kaia uses her platform to advocate for equity in gifted education, especially for girls. Her TEDxLasVegas talk marks one of the few public talks addressing giftedness through the lens of gender and neurodiversity. Kaia is a multiracial 11-year-old storyteller and performer who loves making people think. A student at Nasri Academy for Gifted Children and a Davidson Young Scholar, she started watching TED Talks in kindergarten and is thrilled to give one of her own.When she’s not deep in debate, reading, writing, or building a prototype for her next big idea, she can be found on stage. From dancing to acting, she loves putting on a good show. She has performed with Rainbow Company Youth Theatre, Dynamic Performing Arts Center, Drama Kids of Las Vegas, and Bright Star Acting Academy.Kaia also loves comedy. Whether delivering a monologue or cracking a joke (the bluer, the better!), she believes her words have the power to move people—to action, to laughter, and if she’s lucky, both. Whatever she chooses to do with her life, Kaia plans to use her creativity and talents to empower girls and make the world a better place for everyone. 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
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