When Parents Let Go Too Much | Stephanie Oboh | TEDxJewels Leading Lights Youth
This talk—When Parents Let Go Too Much, by Stephanie Oboh—is a wake-up call wrapped in honesty, humor, and a lack of tough love.She paints a vivid picture of what happens when parental love for a child lacks boundaries. When parents choose convenience over connection and freedom over guidance.With a striking blend of personal story and social insight, this talk explores the very real consequences of hands-off parenting. From an eye-opening childhood memory to powerful metaphors—like flying a plane without a flight path—it challenges the modern-day myth that “kids will figure it out on their own.”Backed by psychological research and grounded wisdom, the speaker introduces “The Wormwood Effect”—a warning about what happens when structure is replaced by silence. You’ll meet the friend who had too much freedom and not enough foundation, and revisit famous quotes that hit harder than ever before. Stephanie is a brilliant and versatile 14-year-old Year 10 learner who blends academic excellence with a strong sense of purpose. Currently serving as Assistant Social Prefect for 2024/25, she is also a multi-award-winning student, having been the Overall Best Student in Years 7–9.
She won the State Lavogue Annual Maths Competition and placed third in Badminton during the 2025 games. Through the Mega Jewels Award project, her team funded the education of underprivileged students—demonstrating a deep sense of social responsibility. Stephanie’s sharp intellect, leadership ability, and passion for equity make her a remarkable young changemaker. 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
- 3:39The Artful Mind | Sofia Beligianni | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthSofia takes us on a journey through the emotional power of art. She explores how colors, shapes, and symbolism can spark different feelings in each of us, helping us connect with the world and ourselves in deeper ways. Her talk shows how art is not just something we see, but something we truly feel. My name is Sofia, and I am 12 years old. Some of my hobbies include drawing, listening to music, watching movies and reading. I believe that if everyone puts in their best effort, we could really make the Earth a better place. 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
- 14:14WHY Teaching Became My Calling | Derek Block | TEDxSun Prairie West High SchoolAt TEDx Sun Prairie West High School, hosted by Mouneeth Venigalla, Derek Block shares his personal journey and what led him to a career in teaching. With over a decade of experience as a science teacher, he reflects on the meaningful impact educators have on students and communities. His talk was part of the TEDx event themed "The Power of Why." A dedicated science teacher in Sun Prairie for over a decade, Derek Block shares his personal journey into education. He’ll reflect on the key moments that shaped his teaching philosophy and why he believes education is more than just a profession—it’s a calling. 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
- 2:46Mission: Space Spy | Zois Sarris | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthZois loves space, science, and big questions about the universe. In this talk, he shares his dream of becoming a "space spy" using telescopes, satellites, and a curious mind to unlock the mysteries of space. I’m Zois and I’m 10 years old. I love space and technology and when I’m not observing the moon with my telescope, I’m practicing Jiu Jitsu. 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
- 3:07The Power of Learning | Zeta Roussi | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthZeta shares how learning is more than school — it's a way to grow, explore, and connect. From riding a bike to cooking and helping friends, she shows that learning takes effort, but it's always worth it. I am Zeta Roussi, I am eleven years old, and I enjoy sports and traditional dances. 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
- 4:07The Importance of Sports | Apostolos Chardas | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthApostolos talks about how sports, especially swimming, improve physical and mental health. He explains how they help with social life, build determination, and strengthen the heart. Regular exercise is key for kids, promoting growth, fitness, and well-being. Hello, my name is Apostolos, and I am 12 years old. I have a big interest in Sports and that's because I like to exercise a lot in the day! 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
- 3:16Social Media: A new educational tool | Angelos Georgiou | TEDxNea Smyrni YouthAngelos highlights how platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook are transforming the way we learn. From accessing educational content to fostering collaboration among students and teachers, social media is helping us gain valuable skills and knowledge in fun, interactive ways. But, as with all tools, we must use it wisely to make the most out of its educational potential. Hello, I'm Angelos, I'm in the third year of junior high school and I'm fourteen years old. In my spare time, I engage in social media, as well as listening to music. 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