Fiction helps us feel what statistics can’t. Ruoqing explores how stories bypass our emotional defenses and awaken empathy. Her talk is a poetic reminder that fiction doesn’t just entertain; it connects, heals, and humanizes. Ruoqing Xu is a Senior 1 student at Jinling High School. She’s a creative writer who loves horror movies and contemporary poetry. In her talk, she will explore why fiction matters. 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

What happens when even future human rights professionals carry unconscious biases? In this talk, Arusik Ohanyan shares personal experiences from her university years in Armenia, showing how discrimination and silence can exist where we least expect them, even in classrooms teaching justice and equality. Her story is a call to look inward and ensure that human rights education builds not only knowledge, but true values of respect and inclusion. Arusik Ohanyan is a gender expert and human rights defender from Armenia with over a decade of experience in gender equality, social justice, and inclusive development. With a background in social work and human rights, she currently serves as a Gender Equality Expert at UNICEF Armenia. Arusik has led initiatives with national and international organizations including USAID and Human Rights House Yerevan, focusing on integrating gender and youth inclusion into male-dominated sectors, policy reform, and rights-based programming. She holds a Master’s in Human Rights and Democratization and actively contributes to regional and global efforts on inclusion and equity. Arusik is committed to systemic change through inclusive policies and believes in building a society where equity is foundational and every individual can 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

Caught in endless comparisons, rankings, and pressure, many students lose sight of who they really are. Wanqi exposes the emotional toll of the high school rat race — the burnout, anxiety, and quiet desperation it breeds. Her talk is a powerful call to break free from the race, redefine success, and choose a path that’s true to yourself. Wanqi Huang is a Senior 3 student at Jinling High School with a deep passion for psychology, which led her to join the HOSA committee. In her talk, she invites everyone to find their own path and break free from the high school rat race. 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

Language is more than communication — it’s how we see the world. From Arctic snow terms to Aboriginal navigation systems, Yutong takes us on a journey through the world's linguistic wonders. Her talk celebrates the richness of language and why protecting it means preserving ways of thinking — entire parallel universes of the mind. Yutong Lu is a Senior 1 student at Jinling High School. She’s fascinated by the patterns hidden in nature — like the intricate design of human language. 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

When forming a team, we often think about harmony, compromise, and getting along. But Meichen argues that a little “selfishness” at the start — being clear about your goals, values, and standards — can actually lead to a stronger, more effective group. In this talk, she shares how embracing your own needs isn't a flaw, but the foundation of real teamwork. Meichen Liu a Senior 3 student at Jinling High School — which means group projects have been a part of her life for the past three years. When it comes to balancing friendship and teamwork, she’s developed some unique insights. 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

Why is teen love so strictly forbidden in high school, yet marriage so urgently expected after graduation? Shengtong Yan challenges this contradiction with real-life school rules and psychological research, revealing how a lack of emotional education creates hidden risks for young people. Her talk asks: how can we write our life’s love letter if we’ve never practiced emotional spelling? Shengtong Yan is a senior 2 student in Jinling High School. She owns her own Ceramic Club and has very special painting style. She is interested thinking about everything she observes. This time, Jinling High School's policies gave her a lot to think about. 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

Empathize like a customer, Reflect on pain points & market Opportunities YSR Rajeev earned both a B.Tech and M.Tech in Automotive Engineering from IIT Madras and is an alumnus of MIT Sloan. He has over 14 years of experience across engineering, strategy, operations, P&L, business development, and product management with leading firms like Bosch, Mahindra & Mahindra, Gati, TVS, and ETO Motors. As a recognized EV leader (“40 under 40”) and Global Emerging Leader 2022, he currently heads EV Masterclass, mentors startups, and advises the Government of Andhra Pradesh on EV policy and investments. Rajeev is passionate about promoting sustainable mobility, upskilling talent in the EV sector, and fostering entrepreneurship. In his personal time, he conducts webinars and workshops to inspire the next generation of EV professionals. 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

student is allowed to lead from authenticity, belief in their ideas, and collaborate for something bigger. Neelam Spandana holds a B.Tech, MBA, Ph.D., and B.Ed, with over 15 years of diverse experience in the education sector. She has taught MBA students marketing and school-level mathematics, and worked extensively with MSME projects under NIRD. A certified trainer in food processing and child psychology, she blends academic rigor with practical insight. Currently serving as Vice Principal at Vignan World One School, she is known for her commitment to student development and innovative teaching practices. Education is her passion, and she continues to inspire learners across age groups with empathy, vision, and leadership. 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 undocumented data, ancestral AI, at risk of disappearing. Our role, as youth, is to become its translators. We need to build technology that remembers what generations have learned.” Akhil Reddy K is a distinguished hardware engineer and entrepreneur recognized for his impactful innovations in AI and IoT. He founded Livestocify, earning accolades such as Top 10 Student-led Startups at National Campus Fund & Amazon Grand Challenge 2023, “Best Innovator” by VIT University, Telangana State Innovation Cell Award, and multiple honors at the Innovation Gala Awards 2024 by MATH T Hub including “AI in SaaS” and “AI for Agriculture Advancement.” Akhil’s startup was also named a Top 10 Startup at the International Startup Festival 2024 and a Top 3 Startup Under 25 by IKP, underscoring his leadership and excellence in technology-driven agriculture solutions. 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

Story to express contemporary ideas through the traditional practices of textile printing made her to pursue Batik and Kalamkari. Maria Clara is the founder of Qalam Batik, a Hyderabad-based studio specializing in handcrafted Batik and Kalamkari art. With over 20 years of corporate experience, she transitioned to full-time art during the COVID-19 pandemic, rediscovering her passion for textile traditions. Maria formally launched her brand in 2022 with support from We-Hub, Telangana's platform for women entrepreneurs. She is deeply skilled in wax-resist Batik techniques, Kalamkari brushwork, and the use of natural dyes sourced from leaves, flowers, and roots. Her debut solo exhibition, The Vigil, was held at the State Art Gallery in 2023. Through Qalam Batik, she has completed bespoke orders for clients across India and overseas, including the US, UK, and Australia. Maria is passionate about preserving India’s traditional art forms and regularly conducts workshops for students and women. She sees art as both healing and expressive—a reflection of resilience, tradition, and spiritual connection. 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