In this heartfelt TEDx talk, Udayan Deshpande, co-founder of Marathi Connect, shares his powerful journey of transforming personal loneliness into a global movement of connection and community. When Udayan moved away from his home in Maharashtra to the bustling city of Bengaluru, he felt the deep ache of cultural disconnection—missing familiar foods, festivals, and, most of all, the Marathi language.What started as a simple chat between strangers speaking Marathi at a shopping mall blossomed into Marathi Connect, one of the fastest-growing global language communities today. With over 100 volunteers and 50,000+ members, Udayan’s initiative fosters a strong sense of belonging for Marathi speakers across cities and continents—especially those far from home.Through emotional stories, including how his community stood by him during a personal tragedy in the pandemic, Udayan illustrates how language is not just a means of communication—but a thread that ties hearts, builds purpose, and creates family beyond borders. This talk is a moving reminder of the power of community, culture, and compassion in an increasingly disconnected world. Udayan Deshpande is the Co-Founder of Marathi Connect, a “feel-good, do-good” non-profit initiative that’s rapidly becoming the world’s fastest-growing Marathi language community. A passionate community builder, he leads a dedicated team of 100+ volunteers and nurtures a vibrant network of over 10,000 members united by their love for Marathi language and culture. Through storytelling, cultural engagement, and purposeful connection, Udayan fosters a deep sense of belonging and pride among the global Marathi-speaking diaspora—proving that language is not just heritage, but a powerful force for unity and positive 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

In this dynamic and relatable TEDx talk, Aayushi Garg Chartered Accountant, Competitive Exam Strategist, and popular YouTuber—challenges the myth that success in tough exams demands 12 to 14 hours of daily study. Drawing from her own transformation from a hardworking student to a smart study coach, Aayushi shares five powerful strategies that have helped over 25,000 students across six countries prepare smarter, not harder. With insights on time management, revision hacks, and mindset shifts, she empowers students to study less, focus more, and reduce burnout. Whether you're aiming for UPSC, CA, or IIT, Aayushi’s approach redefines what effective exam prep really looks like in today’s pressure-filled academic world. Aayushi Garg is a Competitive Exam Strategist and popular YouTuber who’s transforming the way India prepares for success. As a dedicated study coach and career mentor, she has empowered over 15,000 students with smart strategies, exam hacks, and a winning mindset to tackle even the toughest competitive exams. Her engaging content breaks down complex subjects, eases exam anxiety, and makes learning not just effective—but enjoyable. From time management tips to revision routines, Aayushi helps students shift from stress to strategy. Her mission is clear: to build confident learners who study smarter, not harder, and redefine what it means to succeed in today’s high-pressure academic landscape. 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 interviews, most people focus on sounding impressive. But Matt Woods argues the real key is sharing your story. In this thought-provoking talk, he reveals why telling your life story, not just listing your achievements, is what truly sets you apart and creates a human connection that interviewers remember. Future Circumnavigator in the Clipper Round The World Yacht Race (27-28) & current Guinness World Record holder. Matt brings 26 years as a business owner, 6 years in the Armed Forces and 42 years of adventure racer, whilst raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for charities.Super proud co owner of Millwood Servicing ltd (BCorp), Co-Founder Woodmor Foundation CIC. Father to four amazing daughters.Freedom of the City of London holder and serial fundraiser and adventure racer; He has been talking (and more importantly listening) in this space for over 30 years. 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 do colonies, animals, strangers, heartbreak, and discipline have in common? They’re all part of life’s cinematic journey. This talk explores how every moment big or small shapes a filmmaker’s view of the world. With curiosity as her compass and storytelling as her mission, the speaker reveals why perspective is everything, and why every story deserves a lens of its own. Raka Noshin Nower is a creative force in Dhaka's film industry, renowned for her bold and unconventional storytelling through Studio Yellow Something Ltd. With an engineering background, Raka seamlessly combines technical prowess with imaginative narratives that resonate deeply. Her filmmaking journey began at Applebox Films, where she contributed significantly until 2022, notably directing acclaimed series like Kache Ashar Golpo and creating impactful music videos and documentaries.Beyond filmmaking, Raka is an avid traveler, experimental chef, and staunch advocate for creative freedom. Through projects like Uddeshsho Porota, she explores the rich tapestry of Bangladeshi culture, cuisine, and community. At Studio Yellow Something Ltd., Raka mentors and empowers aspiring storytellers, urging them to challenge norms and embrace authentic, boundary-pushing narratives. 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 your most embarrassing moment didn’t matter at all? In a world fixated on perfection and legacy, this talk explores how forgetting—and being forgotten—can actually set us free. By embracing failure, we gain the courage to try, grow, and live without fear of judgment. A 15-year-old from Hungary, I enjoy movies and spending time with my friends, whether it’s cooking, going on a hike, or trying something new. In the future, I hope to study engineering and explore the world. 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

For many, “the first" (being a pioneer) is a title reserved for those with remarkable achievements or individuals who have left great marks in history. But for Alissa Ho, that concept became quieter and more intimate. In her talk, Alissa did not speak of the spotlight but told stories of those who silently paved the way, offered trust, and gently lifted others forward. Alissa hopes that each of us can become “the first” in our own stories – not rushed, not perfect, but with the courage to walk forward, believe in ourselves, and further pursue new opportunities we will create. ✨Content Creator with 236K+ TikTok followers & 270K+ Instagram followers ✨ Alumni of Corinda State High School & Representative Speaker of Queensland International Department of Education in collaboration with Tokyo Board of Education (2022) ✨ Recipient of Dean’s List Awardee – QUT Faculty of Business and Law (2022) ✨ Recipient of Scholarships: UQ T.C. Beirne School of Law, UQ International Excellence, and QUT International Merit ✨ Former Legal Intern, ADR Vietnam Chambers – Commercial Arbitration ✨ Former IP & Tech Law Intern, Baker McKenzie Vietnam (2023–2024) ✨ Former Member, QUT Law Society & Women in Law ✨ Graduated with an ATAR of 98.80; Top of cohort in Legal Studies, French & Accounting ✨ Recipient of Academic Excellence Awards & Scholar Medal 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