Dancing out of the box: A TV show's lesson on stereotypes | Raffaella Mulas | TEDxVUAmsterdam
What happens when you don't fit the box the world tries to put you in? Raffaella Mulas, a PhD mathematician and passionate dancer, was invited to a TV show as a “nerd.” There was just one problem: she didn’t look like one. What followed was a jaw-dropping encounter with a producer determined to make her “ugly enough” to fit the label. But instead of shrinking to fit their idea of a nerd, Raffaella challenged their rigid expectations with logic, wit and Lindy Hop.In this brilliantly funny and deeply human talk for TEDxVUAmsterdam, she explores how stereotypes shape our choices, sabotage our confidence, and steal our authenticity. With stories that will make you laugh, wince, and think, she offers an empowering call to live beyond labels and maybe even dance your way out of them. Raffaella Mulas is an Assistant Professor (Universitair Docent) of Mathematics at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Beyond research and teaching, she is passionate about public engagement and has created outreach videos, organized science communication events, and published articles and interviews to make mathematics more accessible.She is also the co-author of Bear Networks, a mathematics book for children, as well as an upcoming mathematics book for researchers. Outside academia, she particularly enjoys swimming, swing dancing, and storytelling. She has performed at storytelling events across Europe, including at Mezrab and Theater Bellevue in Amsterdam, and venues in Barcelona, Zurich, and Basel. 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
More from TED
- 3:39The Artful Mind | Sofia Beligianni | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthSofia takes us on a journey through the emotional power of art. She explores how colors, shapes, and symbolism can spark different feelings in each of us, helping us connect with the world and ourselves in deeper ways. Her talk shows how art is not just something we see, but something we truly feel. My name is Sofia, and I am 12 years old. Some of my hobbies include drawing, listening to music, watching movies and reading. I believe that if everyone puts in their best effort, we could really make the Earth a better place. 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
- 14:14WHY Teaching Became My Calling | Derek Block | TEDxSun Prairie West High SchoolAt TEDx Sun Prairie West High School, hosted by Mouneeth Venigalla, Derek Block shares his personal journey and what led him to a career in teaching. With over a decade of experience as a science teacher, he reflects on the meaningful impact educators have on students and communities. His talk was part of the TEDx event themed "The Power of Why." A dedicated science teacher in Sun Prairie for over a decade, Derek Block shares his personal journey into education. He’ll reflect on the key moments that shaped his teaching philosophy and why he believes education is more than just a profession—it’s a calling. 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
- 2:46Mission: Space Spy | Zois Sarris | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthZois loves space, science, and big questions about the universe. In this talk, he shares his dream of becoming a "space spy" using telescopes, satellites, and a curious mind to unlock the mysteries of space. I’m Zois and I’m 10 years old. I love space and technology and when I’m not observing the moon with my telescope, I’m practicing Jiu Jitsu. 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
- 3:07The Power of Learning | Zeta Roussi | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthZeta shares how learning is more than school — it's a way to grow, explore, and connect. From riding a bike to cooking and helping friends, she shows that learning takes effort, but it's always worth it. I am Zeta Roussi, I am eleven years old, and I enjoy sports and traditional dances. 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
- 4:07The Importance of Sports | Apostolos Chardas | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthApostolos talks about how sports, especially swimming, improve physical and mental health. He explains how they help with social life, build determination, and strengthen the heart. Regular exercise is key for kids, promoting growth, fitness, and well-being. Hello, my name is Apostolos, and I am 12 years old. I have a big interest in Sports and that's because I like to exercise a lot in the day! 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
- 3:16Social Media: A new educational tool | Angelos Georgiou | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthAngelos highlights how platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook are transforming the way we learn. From accessing educational content to fostering collaboration among students and teachers, social media is helping us gain valuable skills and knowledge in fun, interactive ways. But, as with all tools, we must use it wisely to make the most out of its educational potential. Hello, I'm Angelos, I'm in the third year of junior high school and I'm fourteen years old. In my spare time, I engage in social media, as well as listening to music. 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