Artificial intelligence is transforming our world — but are we building it the right way? In this talk, Dr. Stas Tiomkin explains how AI really works and explores the difference between machine-driven and human-driven AI. He challenges us to design AI that empowers people, partners with us, and strengthens society instead of replacing us. Dr. Stas Tiomkin is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Texas Tech University, specializing in Artificial Intelligence, Reinforcement Learning, and Human-AI Interaction. He holds a Ph.D. from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and completed postdoctoral research at UC Berkeley’s Robot Learning Lab. His work focuses on building AI systems that are not only intelligent but also aligned with human values, exploring areas such as intrinsic motivation in AI, control of robotic systems, and safe human-AI collaboration. 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 does identity mean when you never belong to the majority? From Iraq to Lebanon to the United States, Lahib has always lived as a minority. In this talk, she reflects on her journey across nations and cultures, exploring how identity is questioned, reshaped, and discovered when you’re always on the margins. Lahib Jaddo is an Iraqi-born artist, architect, and educator whose work spans painting, sculpture, and storytelling. Born in Baghdad to a Turkmen family, she spent her formative years in Iraq and Lebanon before immigrating to the U.S., where she earned a Master of Architecture and a Master of Fine Arts from Texas Tech University. Jaddo's art explores themes of memory, displacement, and cultural identity, blending her Middle Eastern heritage with her deep connection to the American landscape. She has exhibited her work nationally and internationally and is the subject of the award-winning documentary Jaddoland. 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 emphasized that while innovation is often celebrated as a defining skill of the 21st century, it is still practiced by only a minority. To truly drive progress and prosperity, innovation must be democratized and made accessible to all. The talk reflected on how creativity remains central to innovation, while AI takes on repetitive tasks, reshaping the role of human imagination. By examining the interplay between the science of AI and the art of innovation, the discussion invited audiences to consider how these forces might converge to shape the future of humanity. Dr. Sudeendra Koushik is a highly experienced professional in technology management, innovation, and consulting with nearly 50 patents at various stages. By consulting and advising organizations to enhance innovation capacity, foster innovators, and cultivate an innovation-driven culture, Dr. Koushik's domain is a unique area linking innovation and innovator skills.Dr. Koushik is a recipient of Karnataka State Innovation Council Award, HCL excellence award for Patents, India Design Mark Award from India Design Council, Sir M Viswesvaraya Engineer Award and other recognitions from IEEE. He served as the chairman for the IEEE Bangalore section, Chair of IEEE Consumer Electronics Society Bangalore and is currently the Chairman of IEEE Technology and Engineering Management Society Bangalore. 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

Your quality of leadership and impact doesn’t begin with a title. It begins with a question — and ends with transformation. Senthil Jayaraman is redefining India’s construction industry by bringing dignity, transparency, and purpose to its unorganized labor sector. As Founder & CEO of Maashini Home Designs, India’s first open-source construction platform, he’s uniting architects, engineers, and suppliers into a transparent, tech-driven ecosystem. With a background in engineering, law, and public policy, Senthil combines decades of industry experience with a mission to empower youth to help build a Viksit Bharat by 2047. His work bridges spiritual heritage and systemic reform, challenging exploitative models and advocating purpose-driven leadership. Senthil isn’t just building homes—he’s laying the foundation for a fairer, future-ready India. 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

Expone cómo el deporte fortalece cuerpo y mente, fomenta la disciplina y ofrece esperanza incluso en los momentos más difíciles, inspirando resiliencia y comunidad. Roberto Rivera, conocido como “Faco”, es periodista deportivo, narrador y creador de contenido hondureño con más de siete años en medios. Fundó Faco Sports a los 15 años, consolidándose como una de las voces jóvenes del deporte en Honduras. Fue presentador y director en TeleProgreso, condujo “Más Que Fútbol Radio” y narró eventos deportivos y E-Sports. Su estilo narrativo le permitió conectar profundamente con la audiencia, lo que lo llevó a recibir el Premio Parlamentarios 2024 como Narrador Deportivo, siendo el más joven en lograrlo. Hoy se enfoca en contenido digital como parte de Corporación Los Hijos de Morazán, combinando experiencia y pasión. Además, posee la Licencia D de entrenador de fútbol base y continúa sus estudios en Ciencias de la Comunicación en San Pedro Sula. 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

For years, I was chasing. But was I chasing the right things? In this honest and empowering talk, Jeena Saharan shares her journey of unlearning the need for external approval. She speaks to the universal struggle of understanding our problems, recognizing our true capabilities, and constantly seeking validation for our goals. Through her story, Jeena reveals the liberating insight that "the chase" ends when you realize your greatest ambitions don't require an audience or an explanation. This talk is a declaration of independence for your dreams, reminding you that the only person you need to justify your goals to is yourself. Jeena Saharan is the founder of one of the city’s leading beauty establishments, where elegance meets innovation to create transformative experiences for clients. Her journey goes beyond building a brand, as she is dedicated to fostering a culture of empathy, trust, and growth within her team.Passionate about giving back, Jeena actively engages in social initiatives and community work. A devoted animal lover, she dedicates her time and resources to the welfare of animals, believing in care beyond boundaries.For her colleagues and team, Jeena is more than just a boss — she is a mentor, a problem solver, and a leader who leads with heart. 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