From shy and introverted to confident and empowered, Dong Jiang—or better known as DJ—is a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and passionate communicator. In this TEDx talk, he shares his personal journey of transformation through public speaking—from a silent observer to a bold self-expressor. Having attended over 700+ events and connected with 6,000+ people around the world, DJ reveals how he turned fear into freedom—and how you can too. Whether you're an introvert, a hidden talent, or someone longing to be heard, his story is a powerful reminder: If he can speak up, so can you.Event: TEDxCSTU Date: May 18th, 2025 Location: California Science & Technology University (CSTU) Website: https://www.cstu.edu?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=tedx2025&utm_term=dong_jiangSpeaker: Dong Jiang (DJ) Learn more about the speaker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dong-dj-jiang/ Check out his webpage: https://www.huajiaodj.com/ Speaker’s channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HuaJiaoDJOrganizer: Leni Jin, Organizer of TEDxCSTU Behind the scenes of TEDxCSTU: Stories & notes: https://lenijin.com/tedx More about the organizer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenijin/ Organizer's channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Leni_Jin#TEDxCSTU2025 #SelfImprovement #Communication #EffectiveCommunication #Storytelling #StorytellingSkills #Courage #OvercomeFear #OvercomingFear #PublicSpeaking #Motivation #Empowerment #LearningDisclaimer This talk was recorded at TEDxCSTU, an independently organized TEDx event hosted at California Science and Technology University under a license from TED. The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the speaker and do not necessarily represent those of TEDxCSTU, the university, or TED. Dong Jiang or DJ, a lifelong learner who embodies the spirit of curiosity, growth and sharing. He is deeply involved in AI automation, building AI agents, and the world of no-code development. With a passion for public speaking and communication, he've learned from top mentors and coaches and attended around 700 events, connecting with over 6,000 fascinating individuals, and he’s not only committed to his own growth but also love to helping others improve their communication and public speaking skills 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

Feeling lost in digital overload and disconnected from nature? In her powerful TEDx talk, Prof. Dr. Anabel Ternès von Hattburg presents a practical roadmap to building resilience and finding yourself again. Learn her simple steps toward clarity and joy, and discover how to take mindful, sustainable action to shape the modern world with purpose. Prof. Dr. Anabel Ternès von Hattburg, an internationally recognized expert in sustainability, innovation, and leadership, is described by Hypovereinsbank as "one of Germany's outstanding managers and entrepreneurs." A futurist, speaker, journalist, and founder, she is the CEO of Sustain Plus, Managing Director of the Berlin SRH Institute for Sustainability Management, and a Professor of Communication, succeeding Dieter Kronzucker. From an early age, she has been committed to human rights and environmental protection. Today, she continues her efforts as a co-founder of World Cleanup and GreenBytes, a board member of Plant for the Planet, President of the Club of Budapest Germany, and at the International Embassy for Economic Affairs. 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

Loneliness is a silent epidemic - and our traditional relationships aren’t always enough to heal it. In this talk, the brazilian researcher Georgia Reinés uncovers how intentional groups, made up of strangers, are offering deep connections in a disconnected world. Sometimes, the deepest connection comes not from those we've always had around, but from the strangers we decide to let in. Georgia Reinés explores global human transformations to drive changes, design new business models, and create sociocultural impact. She tackles some of the most pressing questions of our time and guides strategic decisions for leading companies 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

Jaya reflects on how people shape one another and hopes exploring their archetypes helps others discover new aspects of themselves. Jaya Sriram is a freshman at BISV. She has a passion for music and loves singing, performing in musical theatre, and watching movies. She enjoys learning about business and hopes to pursue a career in law. In her spare time, Jaya is a softball player in the position of pitcher. She hopes to make a difference in the world by eventually starting a nonprofit that helps support the unhoused by selling self-made products from local rising artists. 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

Aanya champions interdisciplinary thinking showing how blending diverse ideas leads to groundbreaking innovation. Aanya Gupta is a junior at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley who has been fascinated with STEM since she was young. Her strong background in competitive math has helped her build critical thinking and problem solving skills. Aanya has published research on computational approaches to improving vaccine development and effectiveness, presented at national conferences, and won the CMI-PB Vaccine Challenge with this experience. Aanya intends to study computer science in college, continuing to work in the intersection of computer science and biology. In her free time, Aanya loves to dance, having learnt a variety of styles since she was three. She is dedicated towards sharing this passion with kids and seniors alike through her teaching and non-profit dedicated to spreading joy through movement. Aanya’s goal is to do her best in bringing about progress and innovation to uplift the community around her. 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

The speaker believes that confidence is often misunderstood. True confidence is a clear understanding of oneself and remaining unaffected by the outside world. It has two forms: explicit and implicit. Confidence comes from courage, and courage comes from sufficient preparation. 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