Peace Beyond the Hashtag: Choosing Real Over Perfect | Navmita Gautam | TEDxGEMSInternationalSchool
In a world where scrolling, posting, and chasing likes have become second nature, we often find ourselves living a double life — one in reality, and another carefully curated for the digital stage. In this raw and relatable TED Talk, the speaker reflects on stepping away from social media, battling FOMO, and confronting the subtle yet exhausting pressures of online validation.Through honest storytelling — from resisting the urge to join the hashtag race, to redefining beauty and self-worth beyond filters — the talk exposes the “silent battle” between our authentic selves and the versions we share for approval. It asks a simple but powerful question: What if peace isn’t picture-perfect?Blending personal anecdotes with sharp cultural insights, the speaker reveals that true peace is unfiltered — found in contentment, self-acceptance, and the courage to stand apart in a world addicted to applause. Because the loudest kind of peace is the one that doesn’t need to be posted. I am 13-year-old with a spark of curiosity and creativity wrapped in kindness. With a love for words, I have keen interest in public speaking, writing, and reading, letting stories and ideas take flight. My days are coloured with art, musical melodies, and thoughtful gestures that lift others up. With a sharp mind and a strong voice, I dream of becoming a lawyer—to stand for truth and justice. Always eager to learn and express, I am a young mind with a heart set on making a difference. 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
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- 15:03The Hidden Cost of Belonging | Pavlo Stroblja | TEDxParadeplatzTrue inclusion starts on the inside and then scales up. At a time when “diversity” can feel like a checkbox or buzzword, it's an ongoing upgrade to our mindset and way of life. It's not about blaming or dividing; it's about everyone – whatever their background – actively participating in a positive transformation. Pavlo Stroblja’s journey reflects The Diversity Upgrade. Born in Ukraine, he grew up hiding his identity due to a lack of LGBTQ+ role models. Moving to Germany in 2004 allowed him to come out and embrace his true self, sparking his commitment to diversity and inclusion. Pavlo shifted from a luxury retail career to become a social entrepreneur and mentor. He founded Queermentor gGmbH, the first digital mentoring platform for LGBTQIA+ youth and allies, connecting hundreds with mentors for career and confidence growth. His work earned the Impact of Diversity Award 2022 and a StartSocial Award from the German Chancellor. Pavlo is also the author of “Diversity Upgrade,” a guide to unlearning bias and building inclusion. 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