In high-stakes moments, many of us feel pressure to stay silent, to wait for the right moment, or to hope someone else speaks up. But what if the most powerful thing we can do is simply to be present, and to find our voice—even when unprepared?In this talk, Maggie Beckett explores the power of speaking up and challenges young leaders to own their place in decision-making spaces. She offers a compelling blueprint for stepping into these crucial moments with courage and clarity, and the importance of supporting those who do. This is a powerful call to action for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider looking in. Maggie Beckett is the Youth Mayor of Milton Keynes for the 2024–2025 term and a passionate advocate for youth engagement in politics. First elected to the MK Youth Cabinet in 2022, Maggie quickly rose to become Chair, leading its transition into the current Youth Council. She is committed to making political education more accessible and breaking down barriers between young people and decision-making spaces. As Youth Mayor, Maggie champions the voices of young people across Milton Keynes and serves as a representative on the Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee of the MK Council. 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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- 16:16From Assumptions to Answers | Banasri Brandon | TEDxTechnocrats Institute Of TechnologyFrom waving at airplanes in her small West Bengal town to standing on global stages, this deeply personal talk explores what it means to dream boldly—and confront the silent voices that tell us we can’t. Through humor, nostalgia, and raw emotion, a former banker and communication expert revisits her childhood dream of becoming a pilot and the moment it collided with rejection. But this is not a story of defeat. It’s a powerful reflection on self-belief, invisible barriers, and the courage to rewrite the script society hands us. Inspiring and introspective, it invites you to revisit your own “impossible” dreams—and to chase them with conviction. Banasri Brandon is a Dubai-based ex-banker, passionate public speaker, and two-time DTAC International Speech Contest finalist. With 15+ years of experience in the banking sector, she brings sharp insights in communication, leadership, and strategy.Banasri inspires audiences with her journey from a vernacular school in India to global stages. She’s also a strong advocate for families with special needs, drawing from her experience as a mother to champion empathy, inclusion, and resilience. 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
