In this TEDx talk, she takes us on an intimate journey through her life—growing up with dreams, navigating personal and professional struggles, and facing the weight of expectations that come with being a woman in the public eye. She opens up about the challenges of breaking away from stereotypes, the courage it takes to embrace vulnerability, and how her choices have continuously redefined her identity. More than a story of an actress, it is a story of resilience, authenticity, and the power of staying true to oneself. Gayathrie’s journey reminds us that redefining life is not about escaping challenges, but about transforming them into stepping stones toward growth and self-discovery. Gayathrie Shankar is an acclaimed Indian actor known for her nuanced performances in Tamil cinema. She made her debut with 18 Vayasu (2012) and rose to prominence with Naduvula Konjam Pakkatha Kaanom, where her natural screen presence and expressive acting won widespread recognition. Over the years, she has built a diverse portfolio, appearing in films such as Super Deluxe, Puriyatha Puthir, and Seethakathi, showcasing her versatility across genres.Beyond mainstream cinema, Gayathrie has also ventured into digital platforms, featuring in notable web series and short films, further expanding her reach to new-age audiences. Celebrated for her ability to embody layered, relatable characters, she continues to be regarded as one of Tamil cinema’s most promising and evolving talents. 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

Dr. Narendra K Shetty, Chief Wellness Officer at Kshemavana, discusses the importance of holistic health and how to redefine your lifestyle to prevent disease. He highlights that while genes may predispose you to a condition, your lifestyle ultimately triggers the disease. The talk covers how chronic stress and your own thoughts can impact your health, both positively and negatively. Dr. Shetty also introduces "Blue Zones," areas with the highest life expectancy, and shares the principles of their longevity, which include a plant-based diet, low-level physical activity, and a strong sense of purpose. As Chief Wellness Officer at Kshemavana, he brings over 3.5 years of expertise in leading transformative wellness initiatives rooted in traditional Indian healing systems. With a strong focus on operational excellence and evidence-based wellness concepts, he curates immersive and personalized experiences that foster physical rejuvenation and holistic well-being.His background includes supporting wellness ventures from pre-opening through post-launch operations, ensuring seamless execution and long-term success. Combining deep knowledge of clinical operations, customer service, and lifestyle modification strategies, his mission is to empower individuals and organizations to achieve optimal health through tailored wellness solutions 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

Lauren takes the audience on a literary journey discussing historical fiction both in the context of the modern world, and as a gateway genre to getting to know history. Fascinated by history and the way in which it shapes our world today, Lauren attends Ashbury College as a grade 12 IB diploma student. She is a balanced student that prioritizes school work while also participating in sports and clubs such as cross country running and media club. She has volunteered as a student teacher and coach in the Bahamas at her former school, Lyford Cay International School. Having attended international schools since the age of three, she is passionate about intergovernmental organizations and the role that these institutions play in creating lasting peace and security within nations. Lauren is interested in pursuing a bachelors degree in International Relations and History. 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

Illness can take up many form, both visible and invisible. In this talk, Ms. Stephanie Young discusses her own experiences living with IBD. Stephanie is in her eighth year as the Director of Development at Ashbury College, bringing more than 15 years of experience from independent schools across Canada. She jokes that she is “hooked” on the Ashbury community and adores her work engaging with parents, alumni, and friends of the school to generate multi-faceted support for our students and faculty. When Stephanie isn’t immersed in her work or spending time with her two children, Bailey and Paige, she loves getting outside, cooking in her kitchen, or finding moments of zen in a yoga class. 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

Through her journey of transformation, she explores how small shifts in mindset and behavior can reshape identity, heal challenges, and unlock confidence. She invites us to embrace conscious choices that turn ordinary living into empowered, purposeful growth. Anu Taksali is a digital strategist, podcaster, and the heart behind ubique digitals, safeobuddy kids and Anu Talks. Everything I created is rooted in one simple idea, to make life easier, simpler and more connected. Whether I am scaling brands or sharing untold stories, my mission is to bring clarity, connection and conscious growth to everything I do. 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

He emphasizes that health, family, and relationships are often sacrificed in the pursuit of wealth and power. The talk outlines a framework for a fulfilling life, which includes living in the present moment, continuously learning, giving and receiving love, and leaving a legacy of contribution. He shares the wisdom of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who said that a dream is not what you see while sleeping, but what keeps you from sleeping. Dr. Thimappa Hegde is a distinguished neurosurgeon, and is presently working as the Director of Narayana Institute of Neurosciences, Bangalore. He finished his neurosurgery residency from National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore. He continued as a faculty at Department of Neurosurgery, NIMHANS till 2003, where he was instrumental in starting Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery. In 2004 he founded the Narayana Institute of Neurosciences which has now become one of the finest centres for Neurology and Neurosurgery service with an excellent training program. Dr. Thimappa was recognized by the Lions Club, Bengaluru, as an 'Outstanding Citizen' and visited USA & Canada on a special exchange program from the Rotary International. He was invited by the Vatican to speak at an International Meeting at the Vatican City and had a special audience with the POPE His Holiness John Paul II. With his keen interest in spirituality and overall personality development, Dr. Hegde has scaled new heights, despite having a very busy neurosurgical practice. 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