Why I want to be an NPC | Hasini Koduri | TEDxKodaikanal International School Youth
"It’s the idea that being an **NPC (non-playable character)** can feel more freeing than being the main character—less pressure, fewer expectations, and the comfort of simplicity. Instead of chasing constant spotlight and plot twists, an NPC embraces stability, routine, and the quiet joy of supporting roles in life.
" Hasini Koduri is a 17-year-old senior at Kodaikanal International School. She is the Co-Founder of the Debate Club at KIS and has written two research papers on environmental law, showcasing her passion for critical thinking and advocacy. In her free time, Hasini enjoys journaling and reading, which inspire her curiosity and love for learning. 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
- 8:13Why mental fitness beats perfection | Dr Pretty Basra | TEDxDoncasterDr Pretty Basra delivers a powerful and practical talk that reframes failure not as a setback, but as a critical driver of growth. Drawing on her clinical and professional insights, she explores what happens in the brain when we fail and why those uncomfortable moments can, if harnessed well, make us mentally stronger and more adaptable.At the heart of her talk is the F.A.I.L. Mental Fitness Framework. Face It, Accept It, Integrate It, Leap Forward. Through this transformative yet straightforward model, Pretty shows how anyone can use failure to build the mental resilience needed to thrive in a fast-changing world. Her message is clear and empowering: you’ve got to get it wrong before you get it right.Perfection isn’t the goal; flourishing is. I’m a qualified optician, seasoned entrepreneur, and business mentor with over 20 years of experience in the optical and healthcare industries. I own a successful optical practice and lead multiple businesses that empower women in business and healthcare to grow with confidence. My career hasn’t been linear; I’ve faced setbacks, detours, and moments that tested my confidence. But each challenge shaped the leader and mentor I am today.Alongside my professional work, I host a podcast, speak on leadership and entrepreneurship, and mentor female healthcare professionals who are ready to step into their full potential.When I’m not working, I’m a mum of three boys, a travel lover (with a soft spot for Santorini and Mykonos), and an annual Chanel earring collector. I’m also known for my love of R&B music, pearls, and pasta! 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
- 8:35Two Songs, One Second Chance | Daz Cadwallander | TEDxDoncasterSinger-songwriter Daz Cadwallander stood before the TEDx Doncaster audience and offered something few ever do on stage: his truth. In a moment of quiet honesty, he shared a glimpse into the darkness that led him to attempt to take his own life and the fragile, robust process of rebuilding that followed.Then, with nothing but his voice and his words, Daz performed two songs written during his recovery in the hospital. Each lyric carried the weight of pain, but also the spark of survival. His performance was not just music; it was a testimony.A reminder that flourishing can emerge from brokenness, and that sharing our stories can give others the strength to keep going. Daz Cadwallander is a soulful singer-songwriter from South Yorkshire, bringing storytelling and lived experience to the forefront of his music. Over the past few years, he has established himself as one of the region’s most exciting up-and-coming artists. A milestone moment came in February 2024 when Daz headlined the main room at The Leadmill, Sheffield, selling over 650 tickets — a staple show that marked his growing reputation and set the tone for what’s to come.His achievements to date are impressive: performances at the O2 Academy Sheffield. His songs have been played on national stations including Radio X, BBC Radio Scotland, and BBC Radio Wales, alongside over ten features and interviews on BBC Radio Sheffield in the last two years.At TEDx Doncaster 2025, Daz brings his voice, his stories, and his passion for music to the stage, embodying the spirit of Human Flourishing through song. 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
- 13:08Point of View: The Power of Media to Change Perspective | Daniel Bergin | TEDxStOlafCollegeStories and reflections from three decades of nonfiction media making and changing perspective by changing the narrative. Following in the path of Legendary media artist Gordon Parks and his ‘choice of weapons’ of the camera to make change, Daniel Bergin shares a reflection on struggle and progress, ethics and accountability, and the singular power of story. Stories and reflections from three decades of nonfiction media making and changing perspective by changing the narrative. Following in the path of Legendary media artist Gordon Parks and his ‘choice of weapons’ of the camera to make change, Daniel Bergin shares a reflection on struggle and progress, ethics and accountability, and the singular power of story. The Twin Cities PBS Executive Producer & WEM Endowed Director of History has won over 20 regional Emmy awards for productions ranging from 30-second PSAs to feature-length documentaries. His work has been screened in a range of film festivals, The Minneapolis native and University of Minnesota graduate has served as a director on the boards of several community media organizations. He has been recognized as a MN State Arts Board Fellow, received the UofMN Outstanding Alumni Award, the A.P. Anderson Award for significant artistic contributions, and was awarded a Bush Leadership Fellowship for his work in community media. 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
- 4:41How We Can Design the Right Reading for Every Child | Daniel Handoko | TEDxSurabaya YouthNOTE FROM TED: This TEDx event was independently organized by volunteers by and for a youth audience. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfDaniel Handoko's talk was recorded at International Full Gospel Fellowship Surabaya for TEDxSurabaya. Meet Daniel Handoko, a passionate advocate for children’s literacy, who created BookLens to help young readers choose age-appropriate books. By scanning barcodes, his app empowers kids to make safe reading choices. This year, his innovative vision earned him a $2,500 grant from the Ciena Solution Challenge! 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
- 4:57How my faith informs my mindset | Sofia Obregon | TEDxColegio Maya YouthNOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker’s personal views and understanding of the brain, faith, and positive thinking. Several claims lack scientific support. This TEDx event was independently organized by volunteers by and for a youth audience. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfStress is everywhere, but Sofi shares how prayer and positive affirmations can rewire our minds toward peace and resilience. Backed by science and scripture, she shows that what we focus on shapes our reality. Her call: align your thoughts with faith and positivity, and watch your world transform. Passionate about soccer from a young age, has loved God since a little child, and has opened windows to a faith journey she strives to share with the people around her. Sofia finds happiness in soccer, sports, family, and friends. Her thrill for the game has taught her discipline and how to have faith even in the toughest moments. Directed by the faith journey in God, Sofia upholds gratitude and a genuine love for those around her. She treasures time with loved ones who inspire her to grow and stay grounded. Sofia is eager to inspire others to pursue their passion with faith, dedication, and heart. 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
- 11:36Life Isn’t Happening To You, It’s Happening For You | Amber RichBook | TEDxParrish StreetNOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of mindset, pain, and the brain. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfThis talk is about bridging life circumstances with understanding that while things in life constantly happen, it teaches us how negative things can work out for our good in the end. Amber RichBook is a transformational speaker, metaphysical teacher, and multi-passionate entrepreneur. As founder of multiple brands, including You Are Your First Career and Through the Grapevine, she blends story, spirit, and strategy to help people awaken their power and alchemize their lives. Drawing from her background in tech and her lived resilience as a mother of three, Amber infuses metaphysics, mindset, and modern leadership into her talks. Whether in corporate boardrooms or healing spaces, she reminds audiences that self-mastery is the key to influence and alignment is the greatest strategy of all.Website(s): www.arichbook.com www.youareyourfirstcareer.com ? Social Media Profile Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arichbook/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a.richbook 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