Not Just a Girl Thing: The Real Meaning of Feminism | Ekin Su Atmaca | TEDxYaşamTasarımSchools
Feminism is often misunderstood, but it’s actually simple it’s about equality for all genders. It’s not about hating men or thinking women are better. It’s about fairness, respect, and equal chances for everyone.
Even though equality seems like common sense, we still live in a world where things aren’t equal especially for women and girls. At school, girls are often judged more for their appearance, or called “bossy” for being confident while boys get praised. Comments like “you run like a girl” or “don’t be so emotional” show how deep stereotypes run.
Outside of school, women face bigger challenges. They earn less than men for the same work, are underrepresented in many careers, and face more harassment. In some places, girls aren’t even allowed to go to school. Feminism works to change all of this.
But feminism isn’t just for women it also helps men. Society often tells boys to be tough, not to cry, and never ask for help. That’s unfair too. Feminism says everyone should be free to express themselves.
As high school students, we can help by calling out sexist jokes, supporting one another, and standing up when we see unfair treatment. Being a feminist doesn’t mean you’re perfect it means you care and want things to get better for everyone. Feminism matters and high school is the perfect place to start making a difference Ekin Su Atmaca is a 15-year-old student at Yaşam Tasarım High School. With a passion for learning and personal growth, Ekin dedicates time to a variety of interests, including playing volleyball, listening to music, learning new languages, and reading books. Ekin’s enthusiasm for both academics and extracurricular activities showcases a well-rounded character, balancing physical fitness, intellectual curiosity, and creative expression. As a dedicated student and aspiring individual, Ekin strives to continue developing skills that will pave the way for future academic and personal success. 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
- 2:33Concentration Hacks: Balancing Technology and Attention | Dila Akyel | TEDxYaşamTasarımSchoolsIn today's digital world, staying focused can be challenging, but there are effective strategies to improve concentration. Limiting screen time using app blockers, getting enough sleep, and focusing on one task at a time can help. Avoid distractions by silencing your phone, turning off notifications, and setting timers. Create small, manageable goals to stay motivated and take regular breaks to rest your brain. Avoid working in places like your bed and train your mind to handle boredom without constant stimulation.Keeping a focus journal can help you reflect and improve weekly. Techniques like the Pomodoro Method—working for 25 minutes and taking 5-minute breaks—can boost productivity. Working in quiet, clutter-free spaces, listening to calm music, and taking real breaks (not screen time) are also beneficial. Practicing mindfulness through meditation or deep breathing helps train your attention. While technology can be distracting, it can also be used to improve focus. Apps like Forest, Focus, and RescueTime can block distractions, provide focus-enhancing music, and track how you spend your time. By using technology wisely, you can manage distractions and improve your ability to concentrate. Dila Akyel is a dynamic and inquisitive 12-year-old student whose talents bridge the realms of technology, the arts, and language. As a junior theater actress, she has already begun making her mark on stage with expressive performances that reflect her creativity and confidence. Her passion for innovation shines through her role as a young researcher in the renowned Teknofest competition, where she explores the intersection of science and problem-solving.Fluent in German and musically inclined as an intermediate piano player, Dila embraces both discipline and self-expression in her daily life. She is also a committed member of her school’s volleyball team, balancing academics and extracurriculars with energy and focus.Dila brings a forward-thinking spirit and a global perspective to the TEDx stage, representing the voice of a curious and ambitious new generation. 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
- 8:47The Evolution of Feminism | Diana Demir | TEDxYaşamTasarımSchoolsFeminism is an evolving movement rooted in the struggle for equality. From Olympe de Gouges' revolutionary call for women's rights to Mary Wollstonecraft challenging patriarchal norms, feminism has transformed over centuries. It progressed from suffrage to radical and liberal debates, embracing intersectionality in the third wave and digital activism in the fourth. Today, feminism demands inclusivity, recognizing race, class, and gender intersections. The journey continues as we strive for a world where equality is not just a goal but a reality. Diana Demir is a hardworking and determined 15-year-old freshman with a passion for diplomacy and international relations. As an active member of her school’s Model United Nations (MUN) club, she hones her public speaking, negotiation, and critical thinking skills. She is also highly sportive, embracing challenges with energy and perseverance. Diana is committed to personal growth, excelling in both academics and extracurriculars. With a strong work ethic and leadership mindset, she strives to make a positive impact in every endeavor. She looks forward to expanding her knowledge and contributing to the world of diplomacy 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
- 3:22Creating the Future: Why Schools Must Teach Creativity | Defne Balıktay | TEDxYaşamTasarımSchoolsSchools should teach creativity because education should go beyond memorizing facts, which can demotivate students. Creativity makes learning more engaging and helps students approach problems from different perspectives, think critically, and find original solutions. It’s not limited to art or music but is essential in science, technology, and everyday life. Many groundbreaking inventions, like the light bulb and smartphones, were born from creative thinking. To foster creativity, schools need to provide an environment where it can grow. Like math or reading, creativity is a skill that can be taught and developed. Encouraging curiosity and allowing students to ask questions, explore ideas, and tackle open-ended projects are effective ways to nurture it. For example, students could design their own experiments in science or rewrite classic story endings in literature. These activities help students become confident, resilient, and eager to learn. In a rapidly changing world, critical thinking, adaptability, and imagination are crucial. Creativity equips students with these skills, preparing them to become future leaders and innovators. Therefore, creativity should be at the core of education. Building creative minds in schools is the first step toward building a better world. Defne Balıktay is an energetic and enthusiastic high school freshman. As an active member of her school’s volleyball club, she combines her love for sports with teamwork and discipline, excelling both on and off the court. Known for her friendly and positive personality, Defne enjoys participating in various activities and inspires those around her with her energy.Her dedication to balancing academics and athletics reflects her determination and strong work ethic. Always eager to learn and grow, Defne is a natural team player and a role model among her peers, embodying the qualities of resilience, curiosity, and leadership. 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
- 9:19No time no space | Samuele Poggi Ricky Quagliato | TEDxPadovaUn’esperienza di Arte Sinestetica dove il pubblico è il vero protagonista e performer. Attraverso una serie di stimoli percettivi è invitato a riflettere sul valore del “tempo” e sulla dimensione collettiva di “spazio”. Samuele Poggi, conosciuto come @Visualsk2, è un AI artist e filmmaker con oltre dieci anni di esperienza nel video editing, nei VFX e nel 3D. Vanta collaborazioni importanti con brand come Adobe, Google, Marc Jacobs e Artlist, e con artisti come Salmo, Sfera Ebbasta, Shiva ed Elley Duhé. Ricky Quagliato è un musicista, produttore musicale, compositore e sound designer. Ha lavorato in progetti molto trasversali che hanno plasmato la sua versatilità, dal pop al jazz contemporaneo, dall’elettronica alla sinfonica. Ha lavorato in molti contesti di rilievo come Tournée e trasmissioni RAI e Mediaset, condividendo il palco con artisti come: Paolo Belli, Antonella Ruggiero, Nate Brown, Lisa Hunt, Anastacia, Frank McComb, Eros Ramazzotti, Marcus Miller, Mario Biondi, Gianni Morandi, Noemi, Drusilla Foer, Adriano Celentano solo per citarne alcuni. L’approccio sinestetico è sempre l’elemento che contraddistingue il suo sound design, sia in ambito acustico sia digitale/cinematico. 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
- 7:10PINTIG Performance | PINTIG . | TEDxRizalStreetExperience the vibrant rhythm and soul of Filipino heritage through PINTIG, a captivating ensemble that brings traditional music to life. Using a rich mix of instruments — this dynamic performance was a cultural highlight of TEDxRizalStreet 2025.More than a performance, PINTIG is a heartbeat — a powerful reminder of our roots, resilience, and the unspoken stories carried through sound. PINTIG is a traditional music ensemble from Sorsogon City, dedicated to showcasing Filipino culture through powerful rhythms and indigenous instruments. 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
- 7:47How to put a tutor in each pocket | Tamzid Rahman | TEDxDaffodilUWhat if every student had a patient tutor—one that fits in their pocket and never gives up on them?Tamzid Rahman knows what it’s like to be left behind by the education system. At 13, he failed a math exam—not from lack of effort, but because no one stopped to explain fractions in a way he could feel. His turning point came when his uncle tore a roti into pieces, transforming abstract numbers into something tangible. That moment sparked a lifelong question: How can we give every student the breakthrough they deserve?In this visionary talk, Tamzid reveals how AI-powered, low-bandwidth tools like Borno AI—designed for Bangladesh’s 40 million students—are turning pockets into classrooms. By combining mastery learning, offline accessibility, and Bengali-language support, these systems act as tireless digital tutors: adapting to each learner’s pace, offering hints without judgment, and reigniting the confidence crushed by rigid curricula.The result? A future where:No child falls through the cracks because a chapter moved too fast.Teachers are empowered, not replaced, by technology that handles grading so they can focus on mentoring.Learning becomes a journey, not a race—rewarding effort over speed.Tamzid’s message is clear: Education’s next revolution won’t start in Silicon Valley. It will begin in living rooms, tea stalls, and villages—where tools meet grit, and every “I don’t get it” becomes “I can do this.” Tamzid Rahman is a 17‑year‑old high‑school student and social entrepreneur from Dhaka, Bangladesh. He founded BloodLink, the nation’s first and largest peer‑to‑peer blood‑donation platform. Using real‑time matching, geolocation, and SMS alerts, BloodLink instantly connects voluntary donors with patients in need, and has enabled thousands of lifesaving transfusions. Tamzid’s work has sparked a growing movement of youth donors and raised public awareness about safe blood practices. In recognition of his impact, he received the 2024 Diana Award and was named a Top 30 finalist for the International Children’s Peace Prize. Beyond BloodLink, he mentors student innovators, speaks at schools and hackathons, and campaigns for SDG 3 (Good Health & Well‑being). Balancing classes with activism, he is preparing for his Higher Secondary Certificate exams while prototyping new tech solutions for community health. Tamzid aims to ensure that no life in Bangladesh is ever lost for want of safe blood. 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