What if science felt more human? In this talk, Mykyta, a science communicator from Ukraine, shares his journey from biology to media, revealing why science needs a new image. Through humor, empathy, and storytelling, he shows how blending intellect and emotion can rebuild trust in science and inspire curiosity in everyone. Mykyta is a science communicator and content creator from Kyiv, Ukraine. He’s been working with the BBC producing science and education reels for Instagram and right now he’s doing his master’s in science communication at University College London. There’s nothing he’d love to do more than to make science and nature documentaries that shed light on real-world issues facing our planet and the people on it. He’s particularly interested in the topics of science misinformation and nature conservation. He’s quite a big fan of oak trees. 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

Elsie explores the “blurry lines” between communication, identity, and inclusion. She shows how redefining listening can transform barriers into bridges for accessibility and understanding. Elsie Avevor is a Sign Language Interpreter and accessibility advocate passionate about bridging the gaps in communication and inclusion. With her unique journey across interpreting, academia, and advocacy, she has learned to embrace the “blurry lines” that often shape our identities and experiences. 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

Like the Buddhist parable of the blind men and the elephant, Katinka's artworks show us that truth is only ever partial until it is pieced together. Through words, materials, scientific theories, and cultural references, she maps this invisible inner ocean. Katinka also explores relationships through the science of mirror neurones, showing how empathy makes us reflections of one another: the image of you in me, the image of me in you. And in Grinding Mills, the monotony of emotions like guilt and shame becomes both unbearable and strangely meditative. Katinka Hajas’s work explores the subtle connections between materials, spaces, and the inner world of people. Drawing on her personal therapy process, she uses sculpture, installation, watercolor, and video to examine how hidden traumas, wounds, and fragile balances shape our identities and relationships. Rather than offering clear answers, her works invite viewers into a space of reflection on the unknown. In this way, her art becomes both a process of mapping inner landscapes and an invitation to embrace the mystery of human existence. 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

Matas Rimkus talks about the hidden filters that shape the way we see the world, think about problems, and make decisions. He explores how these mental filters determine our actions and, ultimately, who we are. Drawing on his journey and insights from neuroscience, Matas shows how relying on just one filter limits our potential, while learning to switch between multiple filters can unlock creativity, reveal new solutions, and transform the way we live. His talk challenges us to ask: what would change if we chose to see the world differently? Matas Rimkus is dedicated to helping people think clearly, solve problems effectively, and unlock their full potential through the power of mental models. His work sits at the intersection of mindfulness and productivity, blending rigorous research with practical tools to make growth not only attainable but sustainable. With a background in writing and software development, he brings a multifaceted approach to cultivating balance between discipline and joy. Matas believes that by deliberately slowing down in areas like work, art, writing, and creating, we can uncover deeper insights, enhance performance, and truly thrive. 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

Vinay Govind explored the transformative power of cinema and its ability to reshape perspectives. He began by referring to Sthanarthi Sreekutan, highlighting how cinema has always played a role in breaking stereotypes and redefining societal views. For him, being a cinephile means embracing not only mainstream narratives but also the world of experimental cinema. He emphasized that experimental films, like scientific experiments, have no right or wrong—if the audience enjoys them, they succeed.Addressing the complexity of filmmaking, Govind noted that cinema is not the work of one person but rather the outcome of many individuals collaborating around a single, often unconventional idea. Convincing people, navigating the production process, and building a believable world that moves audiences with emotion are all challenges that make cinema unique. Importantly, he stressed that an idea deserves investment—cinema cannot be reduced to a formula that guarantees results.The talk also reflected on milestone films in Mollywood, tracing how they reshaped the industry and inspired new generations of filmmakers. While technology, equipment, and workflow have evolved significantly, Mr. Govind emphasized that the core concepts must remain rooted in storytelling.He touched upon the impact of AI in recent times, acknowledging both its potential and its challenges. Yet, at the heart of his message was a simple truth: among us exist countless untold stories, and each of them carries the potential to be transformed into cinema.Through this talk, Vinay Govind reinforced that cinema is not just entertainment—it is a living, collaborative art form that dares to experiment, inspires change, and connects us through shared emotions. Vinay Govind, born in 1988 in Perinthalmanna, Kerala, is a vibrant voice in contemporary Malayalam cinema. A graduate in Visual Communications from Loyola College, Chennai, he began his creative journey in advertising and soon became an associate director to V.K. Prakash, contributing to acclaimed films like Beautiful, Trivandrum Lodge, and Gulumal. He made his directorial debut with Kili Poyi (2013), one of India’s rare stoner comedies—an instant youth cult classic. His follow-up, Kohinoor (2015), a retro-style heist comedy, delighted audiences with its nostalgic charm and memorable music. His most recent project, Get-Set Baby! (2025), explores modern social themes through heartfelt storytelling. Known for quirky, out-of-the-box narratives and meticulous scripting, Vinay also dabbles in writing lyrics and even lent his voice to a track in Kili Poyi. With a dynamic career spanning ad films and feature storytelling, he continues to push the boundaries of Malayalam cinema. 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

Sija Rose never planned to become an actor. It was her mother’s insistence on classical training—in dance, music, and writing—that gently nudged her toward the arts. Though she entered the film industry at a young age, she often felt adrift. Her career was growing, but she lacked mentorship, clarity, and a true sense of direction. One bold decision, made with hope, turned into a mistake that seemed to eclipse her achievements. She was judged, misunderstood, and came close to giving up. But then came the pause—Ma, the Japanese concept of breathing space—which allowed her to reset. She listened to her intuition, leaned on the unwavering support of family and friends, and chose to stay. No one had prepared her for the realities of this industry, and she had to learn its rhythms the hard way. Today, after 13 years, over 20 films, and fluency in five languages, she stands strong. She has fallen in love with cinema—not just the craft, but the transformation each role brings. Through art, she has found her identity, her confidence, and her purpose. Sijaa Rose is an actor who primarily works in the Malayalam film industry. She made her debut with the film Ustad Hotel, and has since delivered impactful performances in critically acclaimed movies like Annayum Rasoolum, Ennu Ninte Moideen, Roy, and Padakuthira. Her recent release Sumathi Valavu is also gaining attention. Sijaa has also made her mark in Tamil and Telugu cinema. In Tamil, she has starred alongside Vijay Sethupathi in Rekka and shared the screen with Vijay in Bhairava. She also played a powerful role in Udanpirappe, co-starring Jyothika. Her upcoming Tamil film is Singha, which also stars Kayal Chandran. In Telugu cinema, her recent debut film, the biopic Arjun Chakravarthy, is running successfully in theaters. Beyond acting, Sijaa has worked behind the scenes as an assistant director on the Malayalam film Mili and the Hindi film Traffic. She is a passionate classical dancer and performer, and her hobbies include creating coffee art paintings. 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