Persistence, Purpose and the Power of starting again. Shreya Pepsilal is a medical student whose journey is rooted in resilience, compassion, and quiet determination. From struggling with subjects she once feared to discovering her voice through leadership and service, she has learned that growth often begins where comfort ends. As someone who believes that purpose lives beyond textbooks, she finds meaning in music, dance, sustainability, and the simple act of showing up every day—even when it’s hard. Her path, including being a Youth for Sustainability Ambassador, has been less about recognition and more about responsibility—to herself, to others, and to the planet. Through her words, she hopes to remind others that we don’t need to be perfect to make a difference—just present, and willing to begin. 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

Invites you to look beyond limitations and notice the subtle experiences often overlooked. It encourages deeper awareness of your own perceptions and emotions, opening doors to growth and self-discovery. I am Vani Srivastava, a passionate educator with 15plus years of experience. I have worked at different capacities in various schools in India, Kuwait and am presently with St. Joseph’s School in Abu Dhabi. Here as a Psychology teacher for Grade 11 and 12 students and Head of the Department I bridge the gap between academic theory and real -world application. I also take classes of Home Science for Senior Secondary students, creating interdisciplinary connections. I have the experience of setting syllabus and to meet the demands of academic framework having worked as an Academic Coordinator and being a part of the Teachers Resource Centre, thus gaining insight into the Pedagogical advancements during my working period in India. My International experience has given me the opportunity to grow as a cross-cultural educator and effectively understand and adapt to the demands of the diverse student population. I would like to be known as a facilitator who believes in the three pillars of engagement Experiential Learning by giving opportunities for applying psychological principles to daily life Thus Empowering learners through critical thinking and self-reflection ensuring Continuous Evolution by strengthening the experiences for students through the use of more enriching methods which are engaging, innovative and always have a scope for improvisation. 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

To pause, reflect, and cherish the present. It encourages turning aspirations into action while appreciating the delicate, fleeting nature of life. Divya is a dreamer, a thinker, and a proud SJS student of nearly ten years. known for her imaginative takes and leadership, she finds joy in turning personal headcanons into creative, thought provoking ideas, now in grade 12, she embraces the uncertainty of the future and hopes to make it big at the cross roads of technology and finance. 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

Focuses on building core financial skills that empower better decision-making. It highlights the long-term benefits of disciplined saving, from security and independence to future opportunities. Client & Service Manager | Financial & Insurance Specialist | Entrepreneur Securing Futures | Dressing Traditions | Building HomesA dynamic force across financial and Insurance sectors—Anushree Barve brings over two decades of experience in client engagement, financial planning, and insurance consulting. With an eye for detail and a heart rooted in service, she transforms client trust into long-term partnerships. 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

"Schooled, Not Studied – Rethinking How We Learn" challenges traditional views of education by addressing the information gap theory and the importance of self-forgiveness. It inspires learners to move beyond rote schooling toward true understanding, growth, and resilience. Hi, I’m Mary Pearlin, a second-year Computer Science student, and I’ve always been drawn to the idea of thinking differently whether it’s through tech, creative projects, or just finding new ways to look at everyday things. I really enjoy public speaking because it gives me a chance to share ideas that matter to me, especially in ways that get people to look at things from a fresh perspective. 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

Julie received her PhD in chemistry at the University of British Columbia where she studied hormones involved in the growth of breast cancer. During her PhD, she developed an interest in science education. This led to her current role as a postdoctoral scholar at the University of California San Diego. In this position, Julie uses her chemistry knowledge and research methods from social sciences to study teaching and learning. Presently, she is researching how STEM instructors interpret data about their teaching and how this impacts their teaching practices.Julie is also passionate about science communication and how it can be improved within and outside of academia. Previously, she was an organizer and advisory board member of the organization ComSciConCAN which trains graduate students to become effective science communicators. Ultimately, Julie is interested in how the skills of an effective STEM educator may be used to improve the communication of scientific ideas to the public. Julie received her PhD in chemistry at the University of British Columbia where she studied hormones involved in the growth of breast cancer. During her PhD, she developed an interest in science education. This led to her current role as a postdoctoral scholar at the University of California San Diego. In this position, Julie uses her chemistry knowledge and research methods from social sciences to study teaching and learning. Presently, she is researching how STEM instructors interpret data about their teaching and how this impacts their teaching practices.Julie is also passionate about science communication and how it can be improved within and outside of academia. Previously, she was an organizer and advisory board member of the organization ComSciConCAN which trains graduate students to become effective science communicators. Ultimately, Julie is interested in how the skills of an effective STEM educator may be used to improve the communication of scientific ideas to the public. 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