The Need for Earth and Space Science Literacy | Varyan Jain | TEDxSouth Delaware Street Youth
The world has changed greatly, and studying relationships between humans and our environment have become increasingly essential to solve modern problems. Yet Earth Science, the field that equips us to understand these problems, is undervalued and barely taught, especially in K-12. While biology, chemistry, and physics are widely required, very few states require ESS courses, leaving most students with little exposure to the subject. This neglect creates a cycle of fewer teachers, fewer students, and declining majors in one of the most critical disciplines. Increasing Earth Science literacy is essential, not only to train specialized geoscientists but also to empower the public to make responsible decisions and hold policymakers accountable. Just as cooperation solved the ozone crisis, strong ESS education prepares society to act and be part of the solution. Expanding requirements, training teachers, and building a culture that values ESS will ensure students appreciate and protect our planet. Varyan Jain is a rising junior from BASIS Chandler, and he's an Arizona MATHCOUNTS champion and an invitee to the 2025 USA Physics Olympiad. He has pursued the Earth and Space Sciences through the US Earth Science Olympiad, Science Olympiad, and Science Bowl and achieved national-level recognitions in each. Furthermore, he has also proposed, conducted, and presented earth science-related research projects, specifically focusing on risk mitigation of pollution or disasters in developing communities through environmental modeling. In the future, he hopes to develop his skills as a problem-solver by studying mathematics and computer science in pursuit of solutions for environmental problems. His current goal is to encourage earth science literacy through working with students, schools, and scientists in order to better solve the problems of today and tomorrow. 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
More from TED
- 5:26Embracing the Mosaic through the Lens of Acculturation | Aminata Diallo | TEDxAIS Jeddah YouthIn her talk “Embracing the Mosaic Through the Lens of Acculturation,” Aminata Diallo explores the challenge of balancing one’s original culture while adapting to a new one. She encourages the audience to become “cultural butterflies,” blending multiple cultural influences without fear of losing their identity. At 17 years old, Aminata Diallo is continuing her 14-year journey at AISJ, immersing herself in the rich cultures surrounding her. She has been supported by her 14-year-old brother, 20-year-old sister, and her inspiring parents. She thrives in socially dynamic environments, participating eagerly in after-school sports, particularly basketball and volleyball. As she looks ahead to her senior year, she is determined to continue serving as both Student Council President and President of Build Africa, as well as taking on the roles of MUN Public Relations and Publicist for the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children organized at her school. Her goal is to nurture inclusivity and unity within the school community she proudly calls home before embarking on new adventures. 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
- 7:26Tradition and Innovation | Maya Almarzouki | TEDxAIS Jeddah YouthIt’s quite rare for a family business to survive until the fourth generation. But most of them survive by learning to balance tradition with modern-day innovation, and the youth of today are doing just that. It’s quite rare for a family business to survive until the fourth generation. But most of them survive by learning to balance tradition with modern-day innovation, and the youth of today are doing just that. 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
- 8:57The Power of Asking "Why?" | Areej Alqarni | TEDxAIS Jeddah YouthRemember the childish questions we asked growing up? They can be more empowering than just prudish, irrelevant questions. They are the foundation of scientific discovery and social progress. Reviving that childlike curiosity can empower us to think differently and push boundaries today. Areej Alqarni is a distinguished young Saudi researcher and a Regeneron ISEF Grand and Special Award winner, renowned for her contributions to biomedical, cognitive, and material sciences. As a recipient of the Annual Saudi Arabia Top Youth Award, she exemplifies excellence in scientific research. A member of the Saudi Research Science Institute, Areej is an exceptional public speaker, captivating audiences with her insights into science and innovation. 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
- 18:16Empowering Ourselves by Retelling our Stories | Zohra Atmar | TEDxAIS Jeddah YouthZohra Atmar’s talk highlights her journey growing up in a strict household and finding freedom through education, while also reflecting on the pivotal role her mother played. She shares how her mother’s hard work, even in something as humble as running a hot dog stand, enabled Zohra to pursue her dreams and understand the power of retelling and valuing their shared story. Born in Afghanistan and raised outside of Washington D.C., Zohra Atmar is career United States Department of State Foreign Service Officer. She is currently serving as Chief of the Political- Economic Section at the U.S. Consulate General in Jeddah. She previously served in Jordan, Trinidad & Tobago, and Zimbabwe, along with MENA-focused assignments at State Department headquarters. Prior to joining her diplomatic career, Zohra worked with the Department of Defense, and in Kabul, Afghanistan with a research NGO, as well as NATO’s ISAF Mission. She holds a B.A. in Political Science and speaks Dari, Pashto, Spanish, and (very basic) Arabic. She and her husband have three daughters and have lived in Jeddah since August 2023. 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
- 6:45Rowing Through Adversity | Shahd Baslaim | TEDxAIS Jeddah YouthIn the talk “Rowing Through Adversity,” Shahd Baslaim reflects on her journey from a rigid, perfectionist mindset, always pushing in one direction, to embracing the idea of change and new paths. She shares how letting go of her initial plan to study chemical engineering allowed her to discover a passion for medicine, ultimately encouraging others to be open to life’s twists rather than sticking to a straight line. Shahd Baslaim is a third-year medical student at King Abdulaziz University, with aspirations to make a lasting impact on the field of medicine. She graduated valedictorian of her class after completing the International Baccalaureate program with high honors at Jeddah Knowledge International School. Her achievements have not deterred her from engaging in a diverse array of endeavors. These include winning a silver medal at the inaugural female Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition in Jeddah, volunteering in a multinational initiative for women's health treatment alongside a surgeon who trained at the European Institute of Oncology in Milan, and raising awareness for arthritis through a campaign that has reached thousands of individuals in Jeddah. 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
- 13:25From Conflict to Clarity: Navigating Cognitive Dissonance | Sara Abduljawad | TEDxAIS Jeddah YouthHave you ever been put in a situation where you've done something that your personal beliefs or values don't agree with? The uncomfortable tension is called cognitive dissonance. There are many ways people deal with this tension, but only one helps us stay true to ourselves. Sara Abduljawad is a dedicated medical student and passionate public speaker focused on leadership development and youth empowerment. Having graduated as Valedictorian and previously serving as Secretary General, THIMUN ambassador, speaker at TEDxYouth Jeddah, and active volunteer in several organizations, Sara is committed to empowering young Saudis and being a voice for change. Currently, Sara is a MISK Fellow and member of the Saudi Leadership Society looking to inspire and cultivate the next generation of leaders in Saudi Arabia. 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
