In a world that demands perfection and silence, this heartfelt talk delves into the unseen wars many of us fight in solitude. From moments of feeling out of place and battling self-doubt to the pressure of hiding pain behind smiles, the speaker bares the raw truth of what it means to struggle silently. Through a deeply personal story of learning to say “no” and reclaiming emotional strength, this talk challenges society’s unrealistic expectations of strength and perfection. It highlights the courage found in vulnerability, the necessity of compassion, and the transformative power of simply being present for one another. War and Peace Within is a moving call to recognize the quiet battles that often go unnoticed and to redefine peace—not as silence, but as connection, empathy, and shared humanity. A 17-year-old who carries both volume and vulnerability with ease, I’m often the loudest in the room, not to steal the spotlight, but because I speak with energy, purpose, and intent. I like to bring a presence that can’t be ignored. I have a curious mind and a growing interest in finance—I find comfort in clarity, where patterns make sense and logic follows a rhythm of its own. But there’s also a quieter, more instinctive side to me. Music, especially singing and playing the keyboard, has always been my way of connecting with myself, even when the world around me feels too loud. I don’t fit neatly into one box. I’m part passion, part precision, and fully in the process of becoming who I’m meant to be. 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