In this inspiring talk, Aheli Shah shares how growing up with a gluten intolerance taught her to embrace change, take risks, and redefine what success really means. From spotting your fixed-mindset voice to setting SMART goals and learning why discipline beats motivation every time, Aheli shows how failure is actually the way forward. If you’ve ever waited for permission to chase your goals, this is your sign to start now. Aheli is a 9th grade competitive tennis player, who’s passionate about helping others push past hesitation and build their own momentum. She’s known for her ambition, dedication, and the way she shows up—not just on the court, but as a friend and a leader. 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

Susan Hensley is a transformational coach dedicated to helping people navigate life's transitions with joy and resilience. In her career, including a stint on the news, she has always felt a pressure to be perfect. In her talk, Susan talks about letting yourself "be bad" and how it can actually improve how you approach things in the future. Susan Hensley is an author, speaker, and transformational coach dedicated to helping people navigate life’s transitions with joy and resilience. With decades of experience, she has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with life changes. Her mission is to empower people to unlock their inner wisdom, creativity, and sense of play during times of uncertainty. Susan’s diverse career path includes serving as a broadcast journalist and news anchor, as well as holding executive positions around the globe. She has a BS in communication/social science from the University of California, and an MS in journalism from Northwestern University. 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

While much of the world is aging, Africa remains young, and that youth is its greatest advantage.With Nigeria’s median age at just 18, the continent is home to a generation that could reshape the future of innovation, industry, and global leadership.Civic leader and technology ecosystem builder Naufal Ahmad explores how Africa’s demographic strength can be turned into global power by investing in education, healthcare, and digital transformation.Drawing from his experience leading Katsina State’s digital revolution, he shares practical examples of how bridging the digital divide and empowering young innovators can unlock opportunities for millions.Africa’s youth are not too poor or too late, they are right on time, and ready to drive global progress. Naufal Ahmad is a Nigerian civic leader, technology ecosystem builder, and the Director-General of the Katsina State Directorate of Information and Communications Technology (KATDICT). Appointed by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda in August 2023, he is leading Katsina’s digital transformation, positioning the state as a hub for innovation, efficiency, and citizen empowerment.Under his leadership, KATDICT has championed landmark initiatives, including the Katsina Digital Economy Policy, Katsina ICT Policy, Katsina Startup Bill, and the Katsina Startup Council. He also pioneered the iKatsina Digital Public Infrastructure Framework, the Katsina UGP (Unified Government Portal) – 1-Gov Enterprise, the Katsina Digital Bridge (a quadruple helix model of innovation), the Cybersecurity Policy, the Intellectual Property Act, and the LevelUp Katsina program. Beyond policy and infrastructure, he initiated Arewa Tech Fest, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship across Northern Nigeria.Before public service, Ahmad co-founded Kirkira Innovation Hub, the first tech hub in North-Central Nigeria. His impact has earned him recognition among CrestAfrica’s Top 50 Voices in African Tech (2025) and Opportunities Hub’s 100 Most Influential Youths. 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

A modern blueprint for mastering communication, commanding attention, and leading with impact in a noisy, distracted world. In a world filled with constant noise, how do you make your voice heard? Communication expert Frederick Afrifa offers a powerful blueprint for breaking through the static. Drawing on his journey from a boy who overcame language barriers and adversity to a former international sprinter and public speaking coach, Frederick reveals how to find your voice, build confidence, and lead with authenticity. This talk is a masterclass in modern communication, providing actionable strategies to help you "unmute yourself" and make a lasting impact. Frederick Afrifa is an award-winning public speaking coach, international speaker, and former elite sprinter. Born in Italy and raised in London, he overcame early language barriers and self-doubt to become a leading voice in communication and leadership.As co-founder of Believe In Greatness, Frederick equips professionals and young leaders to speak up, show up, and lead with impact. His TEDx talk, “Unmute Yourself,” is a bold invitation to reclaim your voice in a world that often silences it. 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 technology gave us everything we wanted—yet left us with nothing to live for? This talk explores the hidden cost of AI-driven automation: the quiet erosion of purpose, meaning, and struggle. Blending science, philosophy, and real-world stories, it reveals why comfort without effort may be humanity’s most dangerous trap. Nik Popgeorgiev is a network engineer, college educator, and writer who explores the quiet tension between technological progress and human meaning. Originally from Bulgaria and now based in Folsom, California, he teaches future engineers how to build the systems that shape our world—while quietly asking what kind of world we’re building. His fascination with artificial intelligence runs alongside a deeper question: how do we preserve purpose, creativity, and selfhood in a world increasingly run by machines? With over two decades in the tech industry, Nik brings both technical expertise and reflective insight to his work. In the winter, he works as a ski instructor in the Sierra, where movement, focus, and nature offer a different kind of clarity. He lives with his two children, finding joy in books, sports, long conversations, and the occasional existential crisis. 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. Yeravdekar shared how her father’s welcoming spirit inspired the foundation of Symbiosis, an institution aimed at supporting foreign students who once faced discrimination. She also highlighted Symbiosis’ ongoing commitment to social responsibility through scholarships, freeships, and initiatives promoting girls’ education. Dr. Vidya holds a Post Graduate Degree in Medicine, a Degree in Law and Ph.D. in 'Internationalisation of Higher Education in India’. Having presented papers at various National & International Conferences, she has numerous research publications to her credit and has also authored several books. Ranked No.14 amongst India’s top 25 Powerful Women, Dr. Vidya has been instrumental in bringing in innovative approaches to promote internationalisation of higher education in India. 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