Speaking Up: My Journey from Fear to Freedom | DJ | Dong Jiang | TEDxCSTU
From shy and introverted to confident and empowered, Dong Jiang—or better known as DJ—is a serial entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and passionate communicator. In this TEDx talk, he shares his personal journey of transformation through public speaking—from a silent observer to a bold self-expressor.
Having attended over 700+ events and connected with 6,000+ people around the world, DJ reveals how he turned fear into freedom—and how you can too.
Whether you're an introvert, a hidden talent, or someone longing to be heard, his story is a powerful reminder: If he can speak up, so can you.Event: TEDxCSTU
Date: May 18th, 2025
Location: California Science & Technology University (CSTU)
Website: https://www.cstu.edu?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=tedx2025&utm_term=dong_jiangSpeaker: Dong Jiang (DJ)
Learn more about the speaker:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dong-dj-jiang/
Check out his webpage: https://www.huajiaodj.com/
Speaker’s channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@HuaJiaoDJOrganizer: Leni Jin, Organizer of TEDxCSTU
Behind the scenes of TEDxCSTU:
Stories & notes: https://lenijin.com/tedx
More about the organizer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenijin/
Organizer's channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Leni_Jin#TEDxCSTU2025 #SelfImprovement #Communication #EffectiveCommunication #Storytelling #StorytellingSkills #Courage #OvercomeFear #OvercomingFear #PublicSpeaking #Motivation #Empowerment #LearningDisclaimer
This talk was recorded at TEDxCSTU, an independently organized TEDx event hosted at California Science and Technology University under a license from TED.
The views and opinions expressed are solely those of the speaker and do not necessarily represent those of TEDxCSTU, the university, or TED.
Dong Jiang or DJ, a lifelong learner who embodies the spirit of curiosity, growth and sharing. He is deeply involved in AI automation, building AI agents, and the world of no-code development. With a passion for public speaking and communication, he've learned from top mentors and coaches and attended around 700 events, connecting with over 6,000 fascinating individuals, and he’s not only committed to his own growth but also love to helping others improve their communication and public speaking skills 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
- 15:48Phantom Excess: The Illusion of More | Dr Anviti Gupta | TEDxSharda UniversityThis talk reveals the trap of phantom excess — the false sense of lack that drives us to constantly seek more possessions, achievements, and validation. Drawing on psychology, real-life examples, and practical strategies, it shows how the pursuit of “more” robs us of joy and keeps us on a never-ending treadmill. Instead, you’ll learn how to tap into your inner inventory — resilience, gratitude, purpose, and strong social connections — to create happiness that lasts. It’s a call to shift from chasing material abundance to embracing inner fulfillment. Dr. Anviti Gupta is a distinguished academician, behavioral trainer, and psychological counselor with 21+ years of experience. She has trained organizations like UP Police, BIRD Lucknow, and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. A certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and counselor, she is empanelled with the Times of India Group and focuses on happiness, mindfulness, and employee engagement. Currently at Sharda University, she is a sought-after expert in psychology and corporate training. 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
- 7:11Owning Your Carbon Footprint | Manvendra Yadav | TEDxSharda UniversityEvery choice we make leaves a carbon trace, mostly unseen, but deeply impactful. In this talk, discover how measuring your personal footprint turns climate action into something tangible, achievable, and empowering. Learn how small, intentional shifts can ripple outward, driving community change and shaping a sustainable future. Manvendra Yadav is a climate fintech innovator and the Founder & CEO of Hestiya, a company revolutionizing carbon markets through blockchain technology. Committed to making sustainability accessible, he helps businesses achieve carbon neutrality while ensuring carbon credits and I-RECs are transparent and efficient. His work focuses on redefining climate finance and driving real environmental impact. 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
- 8:45Quiet but Connected | Muhammad Awaludin Noor | TEDxKBS YouthBeing an introvert doesn't mean you can't build meaningful connections. This talk highlights ways to connect authentically and turn intentional interaction into opportunity. This approach doesn't require changing who you are, but encourages being present with clear purpose. Muhammad Awaludin Noor is a dedicated chemistry teacher with a strong passion for developing science learning that is both relevant and engaging for students. He began his professional career as a chemistry teacher in 2016, and in 2018, he joined Kesatuan Bangsa School Yogyakarta. His teaching focuses on an approach that emphasizes experimentation, the use of technology, and strong conceptual understanding. Throughout his career, he has actively participated in professional development programs, created interactive learning media, and been involved in various curriculum development initiatives, as well as academic and character mentoring for students. 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
- 11:07From Copy-Paste to Critical Thinkers | Iin Inawati | TEDxKBS YouthThis talk encourages students to move beyond simply consuming information and start thinking deeply about what they learn. In a world flooded with instant answers and AI tools, the talk highlights the importance of questioning, analyzing, and understanding. It inspires young minds to become thoughtful, independent thinkers who can shape the future with clarity and purpose. Dr. Iin Inawati, M.Pd. is a lecturer in the English Language Teaching Master’s Program at Universitas Ahmad Dahlan, Yogyakarta. She holds a PhD in English Language Teaching and specializes in developing English learning materials for young learners. Dr. Iin is also an active researcher with numerous scientific publications, as well as a regular presenter and workshop facilitator in the field of language education and literacy. 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
- 12:11CTRL+Z: Undoing the Damage Done by Humans on Nature | Reyhan Adhiguna Pamungkas | TEDxKBS YouthHighlights that we can’t Ctrl+Z the damage we’ve done to nature, while exploring why restoration matters, actions we can take, and the awareness needed for lasting change. Reyhan is an alumnus of Kesatuan Bangsa Junior and Senior High School, known for his achievements in science and leadership. During his time at school, he was an active member of the KBS Olympus Team, specializing in Earth Science and Chemistry, and served as the team’s President. Reyhan earned a Gold Medal in the National Earth Science Olympiad and a Silver Medal in the National Chemistry Olympiad. He is currently pursuing his studies at the University of British Columbia, Canada, as a fully funded scholarship awardee. 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
- 7:09Beyond the Spotlight | Alifa Aqilla Herfiza | TEDxKBS YouthThis talk tells a story of resilience learned through the journey of a singer—overcoming challenges, embracing strength, and persevering toward dreams. It reminds us that behind every spotlight lies determination and courage. Alifa is a 9th-grade student at Kesatuan Bangsa Junior High School with a strong passion for music and leadership. A former Vice President of the Student Council, she has actively contributed to organizing school activities and student-led initiatives. As a talented singer, Alifa frequently performs at school events and has competed in various singing competitions—most notably winning an international singing competition, a milestone that reflects her dedication and vocal talent. 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