Body Talks: Don't Hold it Against Me! | Dr. Shakeel Sheikh | TEDxPOWIIS Youth
In a self-aware and satirical performance, Dr. Shakeel Sheikh takes the stage to give a talk about... absolutely nothing. But don't be fooled — this seemingly absurd premise is a clever constructivist commentary on the mechanics of public speaking itself. From exaggerated hand gestures to awkward audience participation, Dr. Sheikh deconstructs the classic TED Talk formula with wit, charm, and just enough awkward silence to make you laugh and think.Through playful parody and sharp timing, he explores how tone, posture, projection, and personal storytelling shape our perception of meaning — even when there’s no real content. Is it performance? Is it philosophy? Is it just funny? That’s for you to decide.
With more than 30 years' of teaching and leadership experience, Dr. Sheikh's philosophy of education is grounded on careful nurture of respect towards oneself, the society and one's surrounding environment. He encourages his students to think deeply and critically about what is equitable and to create a sustainable world. Dr. Sheikh specialises in Chemistry and has held various leadership roles as well in schools in the UK, Bahrain, China and Malaysia, among others. He is currently the Deputy Curriculum Leader of Science and the advisor of the Eco Committee at Prince of Wales Island International School. 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
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