Exploring the Unknown: The Power of Curiosity | Donna Walters | TEDxFolsom High School Youth
In this energetic and inspiring talk, Donna invites the audience to reconnect with their inner child by embracing one of the most powerful tools we all possess: curiosity. Through playful audience participation and compelling storytelling, the talk explores how asking “Why?”, a question often discouraged as we grow older, can be the key to innovation, personal growth, and meaningful connection. From historical breakthroughs to everyday self-reflection, this talk reminds people that curiosity isn’t just for scientists or students, it’s a mindset that empowers us to overcome fear, navigate uncertainty, and boldly explore the unknown. Donna "BasicTaq" Walters is an award-winning founder and Executive Director of College Esports, a nonprofit focused on promoting project-based learning through video games. She is also a co-founder of the California Esports Association, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering educators to create sustainable, engaging, and inclusive esports and video game programs. She has partnered with organizations such as the City of Rancho Cordova, University of the Pacific, and more to develop impactful esports initiatives. A frequent speaker at national conferences, Donna shares her expertise in both esports and higher education as a speaker, moderator, panelist, and event host. Recently, she joined Folsom High School as a Computer Science teacher, using her expertise in online spaces to inspire students through career-building opportunities that connect with their interests and technology-based experiences. For more insights into her work, check out her interview on the Gamers Change Lives. 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
- 10:42China’s Ancient Blind Box: The Story of Mi-se Porcelain | Michelle Jialin Cen | TEDxYuehai St StudioWhat do blind boxes and ancient porcelain have in common? Michelle explores the parallels between China’s Mi-se porcelain—a thousand-year-old “secret-color” art—and modern collectible trends like blind boxes. In her talk, she shares how blending tradition with contemporary culture can bring ancient craftsmanship back into daily life. Michelle Jialin Cen is a cultural innovator dedicated to reviving Mi-se porcelain—China’s ancient "secret-color" celadon—by integrating this timeless art form into modern life. She is also an independent designer specializing in enamel jewelry, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Beyond her work in cultural heritage, Michelle is also an advocate for environmental policy, drawing on her research in environmental economics. She has held key leadership roles in organizations such as the Harvard BPC Operation Department (Southern China Division), which promotes business education for Chinese youth, and has consistently demonstrated a passion for bridging tradition 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
- 16:16From Assumptions to Answers | Banasri Brandon | TEDxTechnocrats Institute Of TechnologyFrom waving at airplanes in her small West Bengal town to standing on global stages, this deeply personal talk explores what it means to dream boldly—and confront the silent voices that tell us we can’t. Through humor, nostalgia, and raw emotion, a former banker and communication expert revisits her childhood dream of becoming a pilot and the moment it collided with rejection. But this is not a story of defeat. It’s a powerful reflection on self-belief, invisible barriers, and the courage to rewrite the script society hands us. Inspiring and introspective, it invites you to revisit your own “impossible” dreams—and to chase them with conviction. Banasri Brandon is a Dubai-based ex-banker, passionate public speaker, and two-time DTAC International Speech Contest finalist. With 15+ years of experience in the banking sector, she brings sharp insights in communication, leadership, and strategy.Banasri inspires audiences with her journey from a vernacular school in India to global stages. She’s also a strong advocate for families with special needs, drawing from her experience as a mother to champion empathy, inclusion, and resilience. 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