Ganesh Karnik, in this thought-provoking TEDx talk at NITK Surathkal, redefines what it means to be "lucky" in a society shaped by opportunity, education, and civic duty. Speaking to young engineers, he challenges them to see their college years not just as career preparation, but as a foundation for nation-building. He stresses on the fifth dimension of education - being a responsible citizen. Blending spiritual reflections with civic philosophy, he emphasizes the power of self-belief, enlightened citizenship, and responsibility. Referencing thinkers like Swami Vivekananda and Adi Shankaracharya, Karnik calls for youth to awaken their inner potential and contribute meaningfully to society. He explains why Adi Shankaracharya never was arrogant when he said “Aham Brahmasmi” or “Tatvamasi” and was rather a quest to answer the question that always has troubled enlightened minds “Who Am I?”As a seasoned educator, Ganesh Karnik has spent years guiding students, professionals, and policymakers alike toward values-based leadership. Known for his oratory and deep understanding of India's democratic and spiritual fabric, he brings a unique blend of political insight and philosophical grounding. His commitment to shaping responsible citizens and encouraging youth to reflect on their higher purpose is central to his work—making this talk not just a lecture, but a heartfelt call to action. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. A seasoned educator, public leader, and motivator, Ganesh Karnik has spent years guiding students, professionals, and policymakers alike toward values-based leadership. Known for his oratory and deep understanding of India's democratic and spiritual fabric, he brings a unique blend of political insight and philosophical grounding. His commitment to shaping responsible citizens and encouraging youth to reflect on their higher purpose is central to his work—making this talk not just a lecture, but a heartfelt call to action. 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

المقاولة الاجتماعية .. لماذا مهمة ؟ Social entrepreneur //Co founder NCI LAAYOUNE // co founder Build skillsconsultancysarl au // Facilitateur creativity capacity building 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 the key to better AI isn't more data, but better stories? This journey from class confusion to cultural revolution reveals why teaching machines about war requires a more rounded perspective that can only be achieved by removing barriers to people participating in the collection and interpretation of our cultural heritage. From 11 million uncatalogued war photos to your grandmother's untold stories, we'll learn how democratising historical narratives doesn't just make museums more human—it makes artificial intelligence more intelligent. This isn't just about fixing museums or improving algorithms; it's about ensuring that our cultural memory includes everyone's voice. The stories we feed our machines today will shape the history they tell tomorrow. Nick Hodder is an accomplished leader in digital transformation and engagement, bringing over 20 years of experience driving technology innovation across commercial and non-profit sectors. Nick has developed and executed digital strategies, cultivate innovation, and lead large-scale change initiatives. His expertise spans digital transformation, emerging technologies and human-centred design. Currently leading a major AI focussed digital transformation in the cultural sector, Nick leads an award-winning team at Imperial War Museums who have grown a digital audience of hundreds of millions people across the globe and has been recognised by Computing as one of the UK's most influential technology leaders in the UK. Nick chaired the Digital Transformation conference in 2023, the AI in Business Conference in 2024 and presented keynotes at both the IT Leaders Summit and Microsoft Global Non-profit Leaders Conference. 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

Could ancient mariners have crossed the Atlantic 2,000 years before Columbus? Join Sheimaa El Oubari on her jaw-dropping journey across the ocean aboard a replica of a 600 B.C. Phoenician ship. This daring expedition explores one of history's greatest mysteries—did the Phoenicians reach the Americas? Discover powerful lessons in courage, ancient navigation, and cross-cultural connection in this unforgettable adventure. Sheimaa El Oubari is a communications specialist and cultural entrepreneur with over a decade of experience advancing cultural, educational, and development initiatives in Lebanon. In 2013, she founded Achillea, a Beirut-based cultural events company committed to supporting emerging Lebanese artists and promoting intercultural dialogue. Achillea has brought internationally acclaimed artists—such as Jordi Savall—to Lebanese audiences, while creating platforms for local talent to thrive. Sheimaa holds a Master’s degree in French Literature from the Sorbonne. In 2019, she joined the Phoenicians Before Columbus expedition as a volunteer crew member, contributing to the successful transatlantic crossing aboard a replica of a 600 B.C. Phoenician vessel, an initiative aimed at highlighting Lebanon’s historical legacy on the global stage. As a mother and committed advocate for sustainable development, Sheimaa brings a grounded, human-centered perspective to all her work. 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

In this talk, Atilla Özdek explores folk music as an allegorical tool to reflect on the relationship between tradition and modernity. He invites us to reconsider how cultural narratives evolve through music. Born in 1973 in Ankara, he initially studied Astronomy at Ankara University but later pursued music. In 1997, he entered Selçuk University’s Music Education Department, graduating with honors in 2001. The same year, he ranked first nationwide in the teacher selection exam and became a music teacher. Shortly after, he became a Research Assistant and completed his master’s (2005) and Ph.D. (2012).An expert in Turkish Folk Music and Bağlama, he has published widely and trained award-winning musicians. He earned the title of Associate Professor in 2015 and Professor in 2021. He led major projects like the Mozaik Concert Series and was music director for the Yunus İçin Söyle project (2021) and 5th Islamic Solidarity Games (2022).Currently, he is Head of Fine Arts Education at Necmettin Erbakan University, mentoring students. He is married, has a daughter, and speaks English. 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

Educationalist Rahim Aladağ shares his personal journey and how he moved forward despite life’s challenges. This inspiring talk highlights perseverance, belief, and the transformative power of learning. Since 2005, he has been providing training to NGOs, public institutions, and SMEs on various topics, including Communication Techniques, Body Language, Teamwork, Leadership, Effective Presentation Techniques, Advocacy, Government Incentives, PCM Training, Entrepreneurship, and NGO Management.He has over 500 training references from organizations such as the Union of Municipalities of Turkey, Hak-İş Confederation, Sağlık-Sen, Development Agencies, Chambers of Industry and Commerce, public institutions, and SMEs. 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