In her talk, Evana Eliza Vinoj unpacks how labels shape and sometimes shrink our identity. She shares how being called “the smart one” became a mask that felt safe but limiting. Through personal moments and sharp reflections, she shows how labels are often just snapshots, not full stories. By challenging the roles we’re handed and shifting how we see ourselves, she calls for a quiet revolution, not to erase identity but to reclaim it. Evana is a passionate changemaker who blends creativity and leadership to drive social and environmental impact through youth-led initiatives. With achievements in academics, art, and public speaking, she’s explored how expression fuels change. Aspiring to pursue a future in computer science while making a positive impact, her TEDx talk challenges the labels that confine us and inspires others to reclaim their identity and write their own evolving story. 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

Ketakee Mateygaonkar challenges the conventional divide between passion and purpose, proposing a more fluid and personal framework for navigating both. Drawing from her journey as a multidisciplinary artist, she explores how passion is not a fixed destination but an evolving energy, one that can be harnessed with intent, discipline, and emotional awareness. Through compelling real-life reflections, she encourages the audience to rethink how they define 'meaningful work' in a world obsessed with productivity. Ketaki Mategaonkar, born on February 22, 1994, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, is an Indian singer, songwriter, actress, and performer. She hails from a musical family; her father, Parag Mategaonkar, is a music director, and her mother, Suvarna Mategaonkar, is a singer. Ketaki began her musical journey at the age of three, receiving lessons from her parents.She gained early recognition by participating in the reality show "Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Marathi L'il Champs."She made her acting debut in the Marathi film "Shala" (2011) and has since appeared in notable films such as "Kaksparsh" (2012), "Timepass" (2014), and "Phuntroo" (2016). In addition to acting, Ketaki has contributed as a playback singer in various films, including "Dashavatar" (2008) and "Taani" (2013).She pursued a degree in English Literature and has also studied at the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles. Ketaki continues to captivate audiences with her versatile talents in music and acting. 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

Bereket shares a deeply personal and timely reflection on how smartphones and digital habits silently shape our minds, moods, and moments. From endless scrolling to the quiet transformation sparked by mindfulness and boundaries, he explores the ripple effect our online behaviours create—either building us up or breaking us down. A Year 12 student at the Academy, Bereket is passionate about leadership, innovation, and making a lasting impact. He aspires to build businesses that empower people and solve real-world challenges. Today, he explores how small daily choices shape our future—and why our generation must take the lead. 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

Hridaynee explores the invisible influence of artificial intelligence on our everyday decisions—from the shows we watch to the ideas we believe. With relatable stories and sharp insight, she reveals how personalised algorithms can quietly shape our preferences, limit our growth, and even define our identity. Hridaynee is a student in Year 10 at the Academy. She is a Wellington Singing Scholar and a committed LAMDA student, having completed Grades 1 to 6 in Acting. With a long-standing passion for the performing arts, she has played an active role in the academy’s music and drama events. Through her TEDx Talk, she explores how artificial intelligence is shaping our sense of identity in the modern world. Hridaynee believes that creativity, self-expression, and storytelling are vital tools for navigating the 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

Holly invites us into the next act of live performance, where technology breaks down the barriers between artist and audience. From VR and holograms to spatial audio and interactive storytelling, she reveals how immersive tech is revolutionising theatre, dance, and music—turning passive spectators into active participants. Holly is a Year 10 student at the Academy, passionate about the Performing Arts and music. She believes that creativity and imagination are essential for young people to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Over the past five years studying at GEMS schools, Holly has actively contributed to various school activities—including supporting lighting and sound for school productions and serving on the student leadership team. Through these experiences, she has developed a strong appreciation for the value of sharing the skills she has gained through the art of performance. 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