The Creative Use of Trash | David Onuh | TEDxJewels Leading Lights Youth
This talk, The Creative Use of Trash, by David Onuh, explores a powerful question:
What if what we throw away—objects, people, even ideas—could become our greatest source of value?In this gripping and insightful TEDx talk, David invites us to see the world through a different lens—one where creativity is not about having more but about reimagining what we already have. Drawing from stories, art, and personal reflections, he shows how discarded materials can be transformed into masterpieces and how forgotten people can rise when given the right kind of attention.But this talk is about more than recycling bottles or sculpting from scrap. It’s about human potential.
It’s about innovation born from limitation.
It’s about hope in broken places.
David is an academically outstanding 16-year-old Year 12 learner known for his humility, resilience, and remarkable all-round performance. As the Overall Best Student from 2019 to 2024 and the School Governor for the 2023/2024 academic session, he combines sharp intellect with a calm
leadership style.
A gold medalist in swimming and a member of the winning 4×100m relay team, David is as accomplished in athletics as he is in academics. His Mega Jewels Award project, which supported the education of underprivileged children, showcases his compassion and sense of purpose. David continues to lead with quiet excellence and a commitment to impact. 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
