Smashing the Cage: Liberation for Women | Mohan Zhu | TEDxZhengzhou No.7 HS
Inspired by Delia's 1946 struggle against confining labels as wife and mother, my speech confronts the persistent "cages" of expectation women face today – labels like "bossy" or "not ambitious enough". It traces these labels' historical roots in biology and economics and details their high cost: stifling women's potential, harming mental health, and limiting societal progress. The call to action urges self-awareness, challenging stereotypes in language, supporting diverse role models and policies, and empowering every woman to bravely define herself and shatter the label-making machine. Students from Zhengzhou No.7 Senior High School who have only given individual speeches a few times in foreign teachers' classes. 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
- 4:31Ask Why — Again | Khadija Izzudeen | TEDxIntercontinental Schools KanoShe challenges us to rediscover the radical simplicity of a question we often forget — Why? She calls why the enemy of ignorance and the heartbeat of revolution, reminding us that true understanding begins when we dare to question everything. Through her powerful reflections, she inspires young minds to keep asking why until it makes people uncomfortable — because every breakthrough, innovation, and change in history began with someone brave enough to ask it. Fifteen-year-old Khadija Izzudeen is a writer and artist with a sharp eye for ideas that matter. With a diploma in public speaking, she channels her thoughts through words and drawings — using creativity to connect with others and make sense of 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
- 7:57It All Starts with Why | Abdulmuqtadir Boluwatife Oyesiji | TEDxIntercontinental Schools KanoBolu delivers a simple yet profound message — everything begins with a why. From inventions to movements, from personal growth to world-changing ideas, every great story starts with curiosity and purpose. In this talk, Bolu challenges us to pause and ask why before we act, reminding us that understanding our reasons gives meaning to what we do. His message is a call to the next generation to stay curious, seek clarity, and never stop asking the question that drives all progress — why? At 17, Abdulmuqtadir Oyesiji embodies creativity and leadership. A CLEAD Tutors Instructor, musician, and football lover, he uses public speaking as a platform to connect, motivate, and shape ideas that move people to action. 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




