Sharing his heartfelt stories, Karapet Sahakyan invites us to reflect on the silent wisdom of mountains. What have these ancient giants seen throughout their existence? For him, mountains and nature transcend all borders, they belong to no one and everyone at once. As enduring parts of Earth’s history, they stood long before civilizations, and they remain untouched by the boundaries we draw. Through unforgettable encounters, Karapet explores how nature connects us beyond language, nationality, and prejudice, reminding us of what truly matters: our shared planet and the responsibility we hold toward it. Karapet Sahakyan is a landscape and documentary photographer with over 15 years of experience. His work focuses on capturing the natural beauty of Armenia's highest peaks and documenting significant events across Armenia and its neighboring regions. His photographs have been published by major media outlets, reflecting his expertise in visual storytelling and his ability to convey compelling narratives through imagery. 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 compelling interview, Erik Grigoryan explores why Armenia’s exceptional biodiversity matters not just for nature lovers, but for the world at large. He explains how Armenia belongs to two of the world’s major biodiversity hotspots and how this rich natural heritage provides crucial services to local communities. Erik sheds light on the hidden economic value of ecosystems and the urgent need to protect them. This talk makes the case for stronger environmental policy, smarter financing, and broader public awareness. Erik Grigoryan is the Special Envoy of the Armenian Government on Debt-for-Climate negotiations and Founder & CEO of the Environment Group. With over 20 years of experience in environmental policy and climate finance, he has held key roles in government and international frameworks. From 2018 to 2020, he served as Armenia’s Minister of Environment, chaired the CIS Interstate Ecological Council, and acted as Armenia’s focal point for the UNFCCC, GEF, and Green Climate Fund. His expertise centers on environmental economics and climate finance. He holds a PhD in Environmental Economics. 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

What happens when one educator dares to believe that every child truly belongs? This compelling TEDx Talk chronicles the transformative journey of an award-winning educator who turned a lifelong dream into a powerful mission of inclusion. From reimagining the traditional classroom to spearheading a movement that has impacted hundreds of lives, she shares profound, real-world narratives of advocacy, innovation, and systemic change. With unwavering passion, clarity of purpose, and relentless perseverance, her story reveals that true triumph is found not in personal accolades, but in the empowerment of others—and in the creation of a world where no child is marginalized or forgotten. Through poignant stories of students who defied expectations, communities that rose together, and barriers that were dismantled, this talk celebrates the extraordinary impact of inclusive education when it evolves from mere policy to a living, enduring ethos. Ms. Manju Balasubramanyam is an award-winning educator, passionate teacher, and lifelong learner with a deep commitment to inclusive, future-ready education. A technology enthusiast, avid reader, and storyteller, she embraces innovative teaching methods enriched by global experiences. Deeply committed to fostering ethical, empathetic, and socially responsible students, she skillfully balances scientific progress with core values to prepare learners for the Fourth Industrial Age. Her optimism fuels her conviction that—with love, trust, and compassion—educators can nurture a generation that is empathetic, socially aware, and dedicated to building a more just and peaceful world. Recognized with prestigious honours such as the National Award for Teachers and the Fulbright Distinguished Award, she has spoken at international forums including the UNESCO-APID Conference and the 1M1B Summit at the United Nations. Her contributions were also featured in UNESCO’s 2024 State of Education Report. 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

This inspiring and heartfelt TEDx Talk follows the journey of a devoted mother who confronted life’s toughest challenges while raising two specially-abled children. Through honest and moving stories, she reveals how she turned adversity into purpose, redefined success, and built a life grounded in persistence and love. From recording thousands of lessons to helping her sons flourish in music and education, her journey offers powerful lessons in resilience, selflessness, and hope. A talk that is sure to uplift, inspire, and leave a lasting impact. Ms. Snehalatha Rajan is a graduate of Mount Carmel College and a certified Music Therapist from the Chennai School of Music Therapy. A former officer at Canara Bank, she took voluntary retirement to devote herself to raising her two specially-abled, musically gifted sons. Her elder son, Roshan, who was visually challenged, earned an MA in English and served in the Military Engineering Services. Her younger son, Ritvik, who is visually and cognitively impaired, is a music prodigy who began singing at the age of two and later taught at DPS Bangalore North. Under her guidance, he completed his education through the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) and earned a Visharad in Hindustani Music, along with distinguished music grades from Trinity College London. Honoured by Asianet, Manipal Hospitals, and the Chief Minister of Karnataka, Ms. Snehalatha’s journey reflects resilience, love, and the transformative power of music and motherhood. 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 deeply moving TEDx talk, an inspiring advocate for autism awareness and inclusive education takes us on a powerful journey through a world often misunderstood and overlooked. From early encounters with children whose strengths defied expectations, to building a community-centered approach that champions inclusion, compassion, and empowerment, she redefines what it means to triumph. Challenging conventional ideas of success and achievement, she reveals that true victory lies not in medals or applause, but in the quiet, courageous steps forward, taken by individuals and families navigating life’s challenges together. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of belief — inviting us all to reconsider how we support and celebrate every person’s unique path. Ms. Sarbani Mallick has over 27 years of experience in Special Education, supporting individuals with disabilities. She founded Bubbles Centre for Autism, a program that promotes inclusive education in collaboration with mainstream schools. She also established Pragati Towards Livelihood, a vocational center that empowers neurodiverse young adults. Her rural initiative, Ek Prayas, strengthens primary education across six NGOs in Karnataka and West Bengal. Sarbani holds an RCI-certified Diploma in Special Education (Autism) and certifications in Structured Teaching, PECS, PEERS (UCLA), RDI, and Social Role Valorization. Her work has earned national recognition, including the Dr. Amarnath Award for Inclusion and the Unsung Hero Award from Rotary. Under her leadership, Biswa Gouri Charitable Trust was honored as the "Most Trusted NGO to Work With" at the National Economic Growth Summit. She also serves on key advisory boards, including those at St. John’s Hospital and SCTIMST, Trivandrum 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

What if the mountains could teach us what classrooms couldn’t? In this powerful and heartwarming TEDx talk, an avid trekker, counselor, and educator shares how the rugged Himalayan trails revealed the true potential of cooperation, empathy, inclusion, and resilience in young minds. Through deeply moving stories—from a child finding purpose on a trail to young students discovering the strength of working together—she emphasizes on how nature becomes the greatest teacher. She redefines triumph—not as reaching the summit, but as the transformation that unfolds on the journey. This talk is an inspiring reminder that when we step outside our comfort zones and walk alongside others, we don’t just climb mountains—we rise as a community. Ms. Izzat Yaganagi, Director of InSoul—Indiahikes School of Outdoor Learning, is a trained psychological counsellor, mediator, facilitator, trainer, and avid trekker. With a Master’s in Education and a background in mental health, she has worked extensively with families, couples and children through workshops and counselling. Her adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors were ignited on her first Himalayan trek, inspiring her to use nature as a space for self-discovery and resilience-building in children. She was instrumental in introducing the concept of Family Treks at Indiahikes to strengthen family bonds and connect children with nature. She also pioneered Adventure Therapy treks for those seeking change and healing. She co-developed the Collaborative Leadership Program, now a credit course in several B-schools. At InSoul, she leads efforts to help children grow through outdoor experiences, fostering cooperation, resilience, and self-awareness—skills essential in today’s world. 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