Education has the power to give new direction to society. While the private sector, consumers, and governments must join forces to combat social and environmental injustices, this effort would be incomplete without academia or education as a foundation. This talk explains why integrating sustainability into education (particularly business education) is key. Erlinde Cornelis (Ph.D. 2013 Ghent University, Belgium, BAEF grant) is an Associate Professor of Marketing and Senate Distinguished Professor at the Fowler College of Business. She also serves as the Chair of SDSU's Senate Sustainability Committee and as a co-prime investigator for SCEIN, a Cleantech SD incubator funded by the California Energy Commission. In 2017 and 2018, Cornelis was named the Most Influential Professor in Marketing in the Fowler College of Business.Cornelis developed new curriculum on sustainability in business, including the Undergrad Sustainable Business Consulting Program. Her research focuses on persuasion, consumer psychology, and economic, social, and environmental sustainability in business. Her research was published in Strategic Entrepreneurship Journal, International Journal of Research in Marketing, International Journal of Advertising, Journal of Business Research, and European Journal of Marketing, amongst others. 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

The U.S. food system is currently facing systemic issues, deep inequities, and an uncertain future. In her talk, Katja Riech explores both the challenges and the opportunities for change that farming presents. Ultimately, she poses a central question: how can we envision and create a more resilient food system in a U.S. context? Drawing on her own experience in farming, Katja outlines five key characteristics that she believes must be present as we work toward a more equitable and ecological food system. Katja Reich is a young farmer practicing regenerative agriculture here in Southern California. She currently runs a full-time apprenticeship program helping to train aspiring farmers in market gardening and regenerative farming. She completed her studies at Scripps College with a degree in Environmental Analysis and a concentration in sustainable urban design. Katja is passionate about reforming the food system and began her farming journey 4 years ago in the hope of finding ground-up solutions (both literally and figuratively). She aims to use her background in design thinking and sustainable agriculture to envision solutions that can address both systemic social inequity and environmental health. 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 do cigarettes and plastic have in common? A lot more than you might think. In this powerful TEDx talk, Aaron draws a striking parallel between Big Tobacco's historic playbook of denial and the modern plastic industry narrative. With personal stories, scientific revelations, and an urgent call to action, Aaron explores how industries have shaped public perception to delay accountability and how that can be changed. Through emerging innovations, circular economy principles, and his own work designing renewable and compostable plastics, he shows us a potential path forward. The question is no longer what we know, it’s what we do next. Aaron Bruckbauer is a materials scientist and entrepreneur dedicated to advancing sustainable, eco-friendly materials. He received his doctorate from the University of California, San Diego, where his research focused on developing high-performance polyurethane materials from renewable resources such as microalgae and corn. He is currently a Senior Polymer Chemist at Algenesis Materials, working to bridge the gap between sustainability and commercial viability. In addition to his scientific and entrepreneurial work, Aaron is an advocate for interdisciplinary education and leadership. He has served on a leadership advisory council aimed at fostering collaboration between researchers and industry stakeholders. His work is driven by the vision of a circular economy—where science, policy, and industry align to create a more sustainable future. 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

Climate change. It's more than a crisis - it's an emotional weight. Feelings of hopelessness and fear can easily weigh us down as we try to see the light at the end of this tunnel. How can we move forward when the future feels so uncertain? As a youth activist, Daryn Tarasewicz offers a unique perspective on what it means to turn fear into an instrument of change, sharing her journey from a frightened young girl to an empowered climate citizen. Daryn Tarasewicz is a youth climate activist and highschool student. Since joining the activism group Youth v. Oil, she has been speaking with government officials, planning events, and leading and mobilizing youth across the county. As a hardcore treehugger, she has an unwavering love for the natural world and believes frontline action is necessary to preserve it. Through education and outreach, Daryn aims to inspire the next generation of passionate activism to fight for a better future. 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 does a photograph hide? Forbes 30U30 recognized photographer and storyteller Pubarun Basu reflects on a decade-long journey along India’s sacred rivers and into the soul of memory, exploring the unseen stories behind the images we take—and those we leave behind. Blending lived experience, philosophy, and visual ethics, he invites us to rethink artistic intent, cultural legacy, and the human connection to nature in a world obsessed with capturing everything. Sometimes, what we choose not to photograph speaks the loudest. Award-winning photographer spotlighting climate justice and social inclusion. 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

Mr. Sonu Sood was the speaker at TEDxInvertisUniversity Season 3, held on January 23, 2025, at Invertis University, Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. He’s a celebrated actor, philanthropist, and “real-life hero”. Coverage emphasized his humanitarian messaging, reflecting on turning success into a force for good in others' lives. Attendees described his session as “inspiring,” lauding his authenticity and motivational impact.  "Money is not everything. Help others and earn their prayers." • Sonu Sood shared that his mother always told him: "If your name is not written in history through the blessings of others, then it's not worth it." • He encouraged students to take time out to improve others' lives. • According to him, the prayers of others will eventually bring opportunities to your door. • He emphasized: “If your life is only for yourself, it's incomplete.” • He advised the youth to: Never abandon their parents, as they are the ones who dream for their children. Always serve and help those in need. Use their talent to support humanity, not just for personal gain. • He shared a personal anecdote where a stranger in Mumbai offered him food and guidance when he was struggling, which left a lasting impression on him. Sonu Sood (born 30 July 1973) is an Indian actor, film producer, model, humanitarian, and philanthropist who works predominantly in Hindi, Telugu and Tamil films. He is known for his performances as the negative lead in most of his films and for his humanitarian work, especially during the COVID-19 Pandemic. In 2009, he received the Andhra Pradesh State Nandi Award for Best Villain and the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor – Telugu for his work in the Telugu blockbuster Arundhati. In 2010, he garnered the Apsara Award for Best Actor in a Negative Role and the IIFA Award for Best Performance in a Negative Role for his performance in Bollywood film Dabangg. In 2012, he received the SIIMA Award for Best Actor in a Negative Role (Telugu) for his role in Julayi. 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