Beyond the Silicon Valley worship of disruption, engineering has a deeper, more profound purpose. Guru Madhavan, a systems engineer, invites us to rethink what courage means in the world of building and sustaining. This talk surveys the unsung heroism of maintenance engineers who strategically care for, protect, and evolve the systems that quietly underpin our civilization — and the costs of failing to recognize their importance. Guru Madhavan is the Norman R. Augustine Senior Scholar and senior director of programs at the National Academy of Engineering, where he also founded the Forum on Complex Unifiable Systems (FOCUS). A systems engineer with a background in biomedical engineering and an MBA, he has advised the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the European Union Malaria Fund. His prior work in the medical device industry included contributing to the research and development of surgical catheters and neuromuscular stimulators. Dr. Madhavan is an elected fellow of multiple prestigious organizations, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering. He is also the author of the popular non-fiction books “Applied Minds: How Engineers Think” and "Wicked Problems: How to Engineer a Better World." 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

In a world where smartphones are ubiquitous, cybersecurity education is no longer a luxury—it's a critical life skill. Romeo Gardner, a cybersecurity expert who has worked at the White House, reveals the alarming truth: We are sending children into the digital realm with virtually no training on how to protect themselves. From phishing scams to oversharing, the lack of cyber literacy is a growing crisis, exposing children to a level of risk we would never allow in the physical world. This talk makes a compelling case for why digital self-defense should be taught in schools and treated just as seriously as physical safety. Romeo Gardner III is the President and CEO of Nehlos, a cybersecurity firm focused on enabling government agencies and contractors to achieve RMF and CMMC compliance. His foundational experience in national security began at the White House Communication Agency (WHCA), providing critical secure communication support to Presidents Bush and Obama. Transitioning to Microsoft, he made a substantial impact as an Engineer, Program Manager, and Learning and Education Manager, driving advancements in security and talent development. Gardner's leadership at Nehlos is fueled by a mission to equip the defense industrial base with the necessary expertise to navigate evolving cyber threats. Additionally, he serves as an Instructor at the University of Mary Washington, passionately contributing to cybersecurity education and workforce upskilling. 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

Imagine if a blueprint for a better future could be found in Hip Hop, a culture that has always remixed division into unity, scarcity into abundance, and obstacles into opportunities. It reminds us that true progress can only come when we build not as individuals, but through a collaborative framework that allows us to design the future together. "Manny Faces is an award-winning journalist, speaker, and cultural strategist who helps organizations remix how they innovate, educate, and uplift by unlocking the untapped potential of Hip Hop culture. He is the host of the acclaimed podcast Hip Hop Can Save America! and author of the Cornel West–endorsed book Hip Hop Can Save America! Inspiration for the Nation from a Culture of Innovation, where he spotlights the often-overlooked ways Hip Hop drives fresh solutions in education, health, social justice, leadership, and beyond. His work bridges disciplines, dismantles silos, and challenges assumptions about culture’s role in advancing progress. With more than 25 years of experience in journalism, media, and community engagement, Manny has collaborated with mission-driven organizations and spoken at universities and conferences worldwide. He connects insight and storytelling in a way that equips audiences to challenge old assumptions and embrace bold solutions. " 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 if resilience isn’t about bouncing back on your own, but about who shows up with you when life unravels? In this talk, Robert G. Woods Jr. shares the story of a life-altering phone call, the lessons learned in hospital hallways, and the truth that we don’t rise by ourselves—resilience is multiplied in community. Robert G. Woods Jr. is a hospitality leader, entrepreneur, and storyteller with nearly two decades of experience shaping guest and leadership experiences for global hotel brands like Hilton and Marriott. He is the founder of Woods Hospitality Group, where he draws on his expertise in business development, leadership, and customer experience to help leaders and teams grow. Robert’s work explores the intersection of resilience, community, and purpose — reminding us that true strength is not built alone, but sustained together. 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 explains the reward for trusting the midpoint storms of life's journey. I am a Standup Comedian, Actor starring on Africa Magic's My Flatmates as Honourable Dan and Political Satirst on Channels Television "The Other News" and "Its Okay with Okey" on Lagos Talks 91.3fm as well as my own show "Pressing Issues"I function as an events compere as well as strategist when it comes to providing entertainment solutions.As an entrepreneur in the entertainment and media space I'm about to launch a pack of content and a founder of a tech solution in the works. 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

This talk delves into the transformative power of music collaboration, highlighting how artists from diverse backgrounds come together to create something truly unique. Through examples and insights, it explores how collaboration fosters creativity, breaks barriers, and connects people in ways words cannot. SAMUEL DIXON is a social entrepreneur, musician, public speaker, trainer, life and personal development coach. He is a graduate of Gas Engineering from The University of Port Harcourt. He has been at the forefront of bridging the value gaps in young people, helping them to discover their potential, connect with it and ultimately find fulfilment in their chosen field while impacting their world positively. He is a climate Justice advocate with Linc Green Prospects, He is the co-mentor of RYPEN(Reset Young Persons Network) an NGO involved in coaching underprivileged teens and young adults on leadership and other life skills. He is also the CEO of Kadosh House Nigeria, a media and digital marketing hub and MagnateLife Nexus a real estate and construction firm. sits on the board of few organisations. He is a Lover of God and a Preacher of God's grace above all. 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