Imagine yourself waking up one morning and suddenly realizing the world around you might not be real. In her mind-bending talk about philosophy, physics, and technology, Hangbing invites us on a journey to answer the most stimulating question about our universe: Are we living in a simulation? From Plato's allegory of the cave to Zhuangzi’s butterfly dream to quantum mechanics, Hangbing links ancient thought with modern science to challenge us to rethink what we believe to be real. Passionate about the world around her, Hangbing is a Grade 11 student (Class of 2026) who has a boundless curiosity for big questions, even ones that challenge how we see reality itself. Combining her fascination with STEM, philosophy, and humanity, Hangbing approaches complex issues with zeal, unafraid to push the boundaries of our present understanding. 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 the noisiest era in history, Taisha unveils the power—and pain—of silence. From being bullied for her weaknesses to suffering a panic attack during a maths exam, she learned that forced silence is a cage, not strength. Blending personal stories with the realities of our social media age, she reveals that “the riot of silence” can be both protest and healing. This talk is a call to speak—even if your voice shakes—and to listen for the truths hidden in quiet. A bold and curious 14-year-old, I absolutely thrive on public speaking, whether it’s a debate, a MUN, or a deep, meaningful conversation. I’m especially fascinated by psychology and love exploring what makes people tick. My dream is to use my words to create something impactful and lasting. When I’m not speaking or lending a hand to someone, you’ll probably find me unwinding with Netflix, a cup of coffee in hand, or out on the court playing a game of pickleball. 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 will it take to build a stronger Canada for today’s generation? This is what William explores in his bold talk about political strategies for the country’s future. With the passion of a future Prime Minister, William offers a blueprint for what’s possible for Canada as the world continues to change. With a voracious curiosity, a passion for history and debate, and dreams of becoming Canada’s future Prime Minister, William is a driven young leader who believes in the power of ideas to shape our world. Currently a Grade 7 student (Class of 2030), his bold leadership serves as a reminder, for this generation and those to come, of the kind of hopeful future we can all believe in. 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

Harshita shares her journey from misconceptions about disability to living with a rare autoimmune disorder affecting her nervous system. Initially aspiring to be a neuropsychiatrist, her life changed at 15 after sudden paralysis and vision loss led to diagnoses of multiple sclerosis, later refined to MORGAD. Though her symptoms were often invisible, societal attitudes and disbelief shaped her experience more than the illness itself. She reflects on the exhaustion of constantly justifying her needs, the stigma around disability, and the importance of empathy. She emphasizes that empathy means believing in unseen pain and offering quiet, consistent acts of support. Harshita Kumari is a public policy consultant working at the intersection of gender, clean energy, and disability. An alumna of Jesus and Mary College (Delhi University) and the Institute of Development Studies, Sussex, she bridges research and practice to shape policy conversations in India and beyond. Her writing—featured in The Hindu, Indian Express, and Feminism In India—reflects her commitment to feminist thought and public dialogue. She is also the author of the critically acclaimed spoken poetry collection Pocketful of Sunshine, Sorrow and Schism, a deeply personal exploration of resilience and identity. Through her work and words, she strives to make space for care, complexity, and change. 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

Imagine walking into a courtroom, and finding a robot as the judge. In her engaging and energetic talk, Olivia discusses the intersection of AI and the legal system. With the help of her sister Isabella, Olivia judges the fairness of using robots in the justice sector. With real-life examples and personal experiences, Olivia invites us to reflect on how we can balance innovation with integrity. A Grade 7 student (Class of 2030), Olivia is unafraid to confront change head on. With endless enthusiasm and curiosity, she is infinitely passionate about everything she takes on, including shaping the voices of tomorrow. Whether she is competing in countless competitions or lending a helping hand to those around her, Olivia brings a fresh and fearless vision of some of the most important changes of our future. 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 introspective TED Talk, Vaanee Vikram Singh shares a deeply personal story of a complicated relationship with her father, illustrating how life’s greatest growth comes not from perfect harmony, but from navigating the dissonance—the tension and conflict—that shape us. Through honest reflection and vivid musical metaphor, she reveals how embracing discomfort and seeking understanding, rather than avoiding conflict, can lead to authentic connection and profound personal development. Vaanee invites us to lean into life’s noise and imperfections, trusting that true harmony arises from transformation, not silence. I’m Vaane Vikram Singh, a Grade VIII student at Adani GEMS School of Excellence. I feel most alive when I’m creating—whether I’m stepping into a new character on stage, scribbling lines of poetry, or getting lost in the colours of a painting. Acting lets me live different lives, poetry helps me express things words can’t always say out loud, and art gives me the freedom to paint my thoughts without speaking. Each of these passions is a part of who I am, helping me see the world in a more beautiful and imaginative way. For me, creativity isn’t just a hobby—it’s how I make sense of life. 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