Could we ‘catch’ a comet before it hits Earth? | Rosita Kokotanekova | TEDxVitosha
A thrilling mission to catch the right comet—one that could reveal the most valuable information about the origins of our Solar system. Winner of the 2023 Women in Science Award, she is an astrophysicist and a planetary scientist specializing in the study of small bodies in the Solar System. Her research focuses on piecing together the complex puzzle of evolution. She is currently a senior research assistant at the Institute of Astronomy and the National Astronomical Observatory at Bulgarian Academy of Sciences.She also works as a Research Associate in Planetary Sciences at the International Institute for Space Sciences in Bern, Switzerland. She is part of the scientific team of the Comet Interceptor mission of the European Space Agency, in cooperation with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Rosita grew up in a family of astronomers in Haskovo, Bulgaria, where in early childhood her fascination with space started. Her parents introduced her to astronomical observations and to this day she continues to gaze at the sky—now using some of the largest and most powerful telescopes on Earth and in space.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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- 14:39Pakistan Isn’t Broken — Our Narrative Is | Minahil Temur | TEDxInstituteOfSpaceTechnologyIs Pakistan truly broken — or have we simply accepted a broken narrative?In this bold and thought-provoking TEDx talk, Minahil Temur challenges the deeply rooted stories we tell about Pakistan — stories of failure, chaos, and hopelessness. Through lived experience, historical insight, and raw honesty, they unpack how repeated narratives of despair have shaped our national psyche more than the realities on the ground.This talk isn’t about blind optimism — it’s about reclaiming agency. It’s about changing the lens through which we see our country, our people, and ourselves. Because when we shift the story, we don’t just change perception — we open doors to transformation.If we want to build a better Pakistan, we must start by telling a better story Minahil Temur is a multidisciplinary creative and digital storyteller known for her bold expression, quirky style, and unapologetic authenticity. Under the moniker Minoqtopus, she has carved a unique identity in Pakistan’s online creative space—blending art, advocacy, and personal reflection into content that resonates deeply with Gen Z and beyond. Whether through visual art, social commentary, or her dynamic online presence, Minahil uses her platform to challenge societal norms, celebrate individuality, and spark meaningful conversations around mental health, self-expression, and cultural identity. Her work stands at the intersection of art and activism, making her a powerful voice for a new generation of creators. 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
- 12:10Judgement Call | Aadil Jaleel Choudhry | TEDxInstituteOfSpaceTechnologySometimes, a single decision can change the course of your life — not because it was right or wrong, but because you had to make it.In this deeply personal TEDx talk, Aadil Jaleel Choudhry opens up about a pivotal moment where everything came down to a single judgement call. With vulnerability and honesty, they reflect on the weight of personal choice, the complexity of doing what feels right versus what seems safe, and the ripple effects that follow.This is a story about owning your decisions — even the painful ones — and learning to live with what you chose when no one else could choose for you. It’s a powerful reminder that courage doesn't always look like action — sometimes, it's just standing by the truth of who you are.Aadil Jaleel Choudhry is a Pakistani entrepreneur and technologist, recognized for his contributions to artificial intelligence and embedded systems. He co-founded vResolv.io, a Delaware-based startup specializing in AI and embedded product development, focusing on technologies such as C++, Qt, Nvidia Jetson, Deepstream, TensorFlow, Altium, and Embedded Linux. In addition to his role at vResolv.io, Aadil serves as the CEO of Sedenius Technologies, a company he has been associated with since 2018. His expertise spans across AI, embedded systems, and software development, with a strong foundation in both academic and practical applications 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
- 16:57A Survivor's Tale | Mian Abdullah Shah Kakakhel | TEDxInstituteOfSpaceTechnologyOn December 16, 2014, a tragedy unfolded at the Army Public School in Peshawar — an unspeakable act of violence that shook a nation and scarred countless lives. In this powerful and deeply personal TEDx talk, Mian Abdullah Shah Kakakhel, a survivor of the APS attack, breaks his silence.With raw emotion and quiet strength, he shares his journey — from the horrors of that day to the long, silent battle that followed. It's a story of loss, resilience, and the human spirit's ability to endure and rise. But this is not just a recount of tragedy; it is a call to remember, to heal, and to build a world where schools are sanctuaries, not battlefields.Through his voice, we hear not just the echoes of trauma, but the courage to confront fear, reclaim purpose, and inspire change. Abdullah Shah is a driven and enthusiastic student with a passion for innovation and making a meaningful impact. With a keen interest in challenging conventional thinking, Abdullah is dedicated to fostering change through his ideas and actions. Whether it’s through speaking, leadership, or creative initiatives, he consistently strives to inspire others to think critically, act boldly, and pursue their goals with purpose. Abdullah is always eager to learn, grow, and push the boundaries of what's possible, making him a dynamic voice for change in his community and beyond. 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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