This TEDx talk opens with a personal, stereotype-busting moment: the speaker—from South Africa—addresses the common question “Do you have water?” to challenge narrow internet portrayals of Africa, sharing that their home is a beautiful place with a comfortable life. It then shifts to cultural differences noticed after moving to China, focusing on greetings: Chinese friends have asked them to stop greeting strangers (e.g., in the subway), but the speaker explains that African greetings hold deep meaning—Zulu’s “Sawubona” means “I see you,” and Tswana’s “Dumela” is a celebratory nod to someone’s presence. The core of the talk dives into Zulu wedding culture, highlighting two key traditions: Amalobolo (the bride’s price), which is not a transaction but a ritual of respect and commitment that honors family unity; and Ukwembhesa, the “uniting of clans” where families exchange gifts, strengthening bonds beyond just the bride and groom to include entire communities. Overall, the speech weaves personal anecdotes with cultural insights to celebrate diversity and deepen understanding of South African—specifically Zulu—heritage. I'm Mlondi Ngubani, an inspiring teacher and facilitator from South Africa. I completed my primary education at Enhlokweni Primary School, followed by Masihambisane Secondary School and Panorama Combined School in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. I then pursued higher education at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), where I earned an undergraduate degree in Psychology and Drama & Performance Studies, as well as a postgraduate honors degree in Performance Studies. Additionally, I completed AP Psychology training with Augsburg University in the United States and a teaching degree at Two Oceans Graduate Institute (TOGI) in Cape Town. My professional journey includes working as a Tutor, Jr. lecturer and an Academic Development Officer (ADO) amongst other things at UKZN, teaching English in an American English training center in China for two years, and most recently, serving as a psychology teacher at Kang Chiao International School East China Campus for the past four years. 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

This speech uses the metaphor of a kaleidoscope to explore and honor cultural diversity, centered on South Africa’s rich "cultural mosaic." It opens with a personal anecdote of attending a traditional Zulu wedding—highlighting vibrant attire, sounds, and the unifying power of love and joy across backgrounds. The speech then dives into key South African cultural elements: fusion foods like bobotie (Malay-Cape Dutch) and bunny chow (Indian-African) that foster community; Amapiano music, a globally celebrated genre blending house, jazz, and African sounds (exemplified by artists like Tyla); San rock art and contemporary street art that reflect identity and social issues; and traditions like Xhosa initiation ceremonies and Indian Diwali. It also addresses global challenges (e.g., fading indigenous languages due to social media) and solutions (community-led preservation efforts), concluding with a call to embrace cultural diversity as a way to build an inclusive, connected future—reminding audiences that each culture adds a unique "color" to humanity’s shared tapestry. I’m Nkanyiso Nxumalo, a 17-year-old public speaking enthusiast originally from South Africa. My journey began in Collingwood Primary School and continued at Brettonwood High School, where I first discovered my passion for oratory. However, I grew up in a community with limited opportunities to speak publicly, and I often felt nervous when addressing an audience. Recently, I migrated to China to pursue better educational opportunities, and I now attend Kang Chiao High School. This transition has been both challenging and rewarding, enabling me to fully embrace my passion for communication while confronting my fears. In my TED Talk, I will share my experiences as a South African and explore what it means to embrace our cultural kaleidoscope. I’ll discuss the various aspects that make South Africa such a unique nation, from our diverse food and music to our traditions and art. I hope to inspire others to celebrate our differences and recognise the beauty in our shared humanity. 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

Born in Hong Kong, the speaker moved to the U.S. at 3, where he learned English, loved English literature, and forgot how to read/write Chinese. At 9, his parents suddenly announced a return to China in two weeks, leaving him furious. After tearful goodbyes, he flew to Hong Kong—his first impression was hot, humid, dirty, and foreign, with unreadable signs, unfamiliar Mandarin, and noise that felt like a nightmare (though he now loves the city). Later in Shanghai, he remembered sweltering heat, rare rain (compared to California), and people raising silkworms. Learning Chinese as a second language was painful: he took special classes with a Canadian Chinese classmate, but Chinese characters felt like confusing squiggles next to the English alphabet. He avoided it at first, but limited English translations forced him to learn, eventually gaining fluent speech and basic reading/writing.In China, the speaker discovered a fascination with its culture and people. Raised on U.S. history (spanning less than 250 years, taught in decades), China’s 5,000 years of civilization—ancient wonders and artworks predating Columbus or the Aztecs—was eye-opening. He also admired the Chinese people’s spirit: hard work, endurance, and purpose, similar to the “American Dream.” He noted China’s rapid development—construction sites becoming highways, towns, or metropolises in years—and the energy of progress pushing people to reach their potential. Though he acknowledged the “rat race” isn’t perfect, he said it effectively lifted a generation out of poverty and turned China into a global economic power. Finally, amid polarized global politics, he called for U.S.-China collaboration over conflict, urging both sides to learn from each other and引用 George Washington’s words about avoiding habitual hatred or fondness. My name is Jianyuan Cheng, I was born in Hong Kong, raised in the US, and have spent the past 7 years of my life in and around Shanghai China. In my spare time, I admire art and study finance. Today I will explore the theme of “Cultural Kaleidoscope” through the similarities and difference between American and Chinese cultures. 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

"You must be from India, right?" "Actually… I'm South African." "South African? But you look Indian!"It's a question I've been asked so many times I've lost count. At dinner tables, airport gates, classrooms, and crowded city sidewalks, especially while living in China. Each time, it opens the door to a fascinating detour through history, one where I explain that my ancestors were part of a wave of indentured laborers who left India between 1860 and 1911, bound for the sugar cane plantations along South Africa's east coast. They came hoping to return home one day, but most stayed, planting roots that would grow into generations, including mine.There are about 1.7 million people of Indian descent in South Africa, yet this vibrant community remains invisible to much of the world. The threads of British colonialism wove India into a global migration map; South Africa is just one stop among many. As a result, I belong to the largest diaspora on the planet, a living, breathing bridge between continents, languages, and legacies.In this ever-turning kaleidoscope of culture, identity, and memory, I navigate the spaces between "Where are you from?" and "Who are you really?" Each question invites a new reflection, another shard of color in the mosaic that shapes who I am and my place in the culture kaleidoscope. Ms. Pillay has been an English teacher for the past 25 years. She hails from South Africa and has been in China for the past 8 years. She is married with one son. 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

Tony McMurray shows how following a personal purpose can inspire collective action and create real impact for hundreds of children in need. A Brit who has fallen in love with Bulgaria, its people, food, culture, and mountains, Tony is a seasoned fundraiser with a passion for community impact. He is Cluster CFO for several countries at a multinational technological company, and he serves also on the Board of AmCham Bulgaria. As Chair of the Trustees of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Bulgaria, he champions initiatives that build resilience and adventure in young people. His challenge to climb all 56 Bulgarian peaks above 2,500 m to raise awareness for the “For Our Children Foundation” has recently come to an end. This journey reflects his spirit of pushing limits and connecting with nature. He is ready for the next one. 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

Swaraksharam, a Carnatic fusion ensemble, presents “Flames of Wisdom”—a musical tribute to the power of knowledge, with music and lyrics by Aarsha Midhun. Performed in classical Carnatic style with intricate jathi and swara patterns, enriched with Western rhythmic elements, it creates a unique cross-cultural experience. "Flames of Wisdom” is a musical tribute to the power of knowledge. The song portrays wisdom as a radiant lamp that removes the darkness of ignorance, brings success in life, and fills the world with peace and harmony. Presented in a traditional Carnatic style, it weaves intricate jathi and swara patterns, while seamlessly blending with Western rhythmic elements to create a unique cross-cultural experience. Through its lyrical depth and musical fusion, “Flames of Wisdom” reminds us that true knowledge is the guiding light of life, nurturing growth, progress, and unity across 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