From contemplating his ancestry to advocating for educational equity, Jeff Mao shares his journey of connection through food, family, and the "Common Good." Discover how his Chinese heritage, spanning 3000 years and including naval admirals and even the founder of a dynasty, has shaped his life and work. This talk explores the power of storytelling, from influencing policy to sharing cultural history through a hot pot cookbook, reminding us that food and shared experiences are the building blocks of our identities and a more connected world. Alumni at Bowdoin College. 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

Phương Anh is a high school student who, despite facing countless rejections in competitions, learned that true success isn’t about trophies but about growth through persistence and passion. She embraced the journey-the late nights, failures, and teamwork-which shaped her creativity, resilience, and character. Inspired by the Japanese concept of “Do,” she focuses on self-improvement and discipline rather than just outcomes. Though she may not have shiny awards, Phương Anh’s story is one of never giving up, believing in herself, and valuing the process of becoming the best version of who she is Phương Anh is an eleventh-grade student in the Specialized Information Class at Luong The Vinh High School for the Gifted. Defying the common stereotype that students in Specialized Information tend to be less involved in social activities, Phương Anh stands out as one of the most proactive leaders, passionately driving various school initiatives and club movements. Her dedication and leadership have made her a prominent and respected figure within the school community. 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

Hà My is a resilient and determined student who has faced fear, failure, and self-doubt on her journey to self-discovery. Growing up surrounded by societal pressures and personal challenges, she struggled with English and endured harsh criticism that once made her question her abilities. Despite multiple setbacks-failing contests and academic struggles—she refused to give up. Through perseverance, Hà My pushed beyond her comfort zone, exploring new fields like green technology and public speaking, gradually building confidence and finding her unique voice. Hà My encourages everyone to honor their own pace and path, reminding us that true success lies in daring to try, learn, and become the best version of ourselves Hà My is a very talented twelfth student, belonging to the specialized English Class at Luong The Vinh High School for The Gifted. Not only is she famous for her execellent academic result (8.5 IELTS, Valedictorian of Block D15 in Đồng Nai Province), but Hà My also shows great leadership abilities in our School and various Clubs' social activities. 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

Tùng Linh once lived in a safe, comfortable world without direction or purpose, merely existing rather than truly living. Everything changed when she faced a challenge at her school’s recycled fashion show-forced to step outside her comfort zone and walk the runway herself. Despite fear and self-doubt, encouragement from her mother helped her embrace failure as a beginning, not an end. That moment sparked a transformation: from quiet and uncertain to confident and brave. Since then, she has learned to trust herself, take risks, and grow stronger with each step. Her story is a powerful reminder that true living comes from courage, resilience, and choosing strength over safety Tùng Linh is a dynamic and passionate tenth-grade student in the Specialized English Class at Luong The Vinh High School for the Gifted. Known not only for her strong academic performance but also for her exceptional debate skills, she stands out as a confident and articulate young leader. In 2025, she took the stage as a speaker at TEDxYouth Luong The Vinh, eager to share her insights and inspire others through her journey of growth and self-discovery. 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

Anh Việt Long mang đến sân khấu một bài nói đầy ẩn dụ, lấy cảm hứng từ hình tượng Hoàng hậu trong Bạch Tuyết và Bảy Chú Lùn để soi chiếu vào những trải nghiệm của mình trong tài chính và AI. Qua đó, anh khơi gợi những suy ngẫm về sự đố kỵ, công nghệ, và quan trọng hơn cả là khả năng giữ vững sự tự chủ của con người giữa một thế giới đầy biến động Anh Trần Việt Long là đồng sáng lập dự án giáo dục khai phóng Pencil Philosophy - Triết học Bút chì. Anh từng theo học cử nhân tại Đại học Columbia và lấy bằng thạc sĩ Toán thống kê tại Đại học Stanford (Mỹ). Trước khi khởi nghiệp giáo dục, anh từng làm việc trong lĩnh vực tài chính tại Wall Street và sau đó là kỹ sư Machine Learning tại các công ty công nghệ như TikTok và Quora. Với nền tảng học thuật vững chắc và kinh nghiệm đa ngành, Trần Việt Long hứa hẹn mang đến một góc nhìn sâu sắc về giáo dục, công nghệ và triết học cho giới trẻ Việt Nam. 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

IAS officer Nidhi Choudhari delivers a powerful talk on leadership, responsibility, and creating change from within the system. Drawing from her experiences in public service, she reflects on the challenges and opportunities of working for society at large. Her insights showcase how empathy, integrity, and perseverance can drive meaningful transformation in governance and beyond. Nidhi’s journey exemplifies how individuals in positions of responsibility can spark ripples of progress, proving that committed action at any level has the potential to inspire collective change. Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, known for her innovative work in governance, public service, and community welfare. She has held key administrative posts and advocates for empathy-driven leadership in government. 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