In Christine’s TED Talk, The Power of Innovation: Responsibility in Creation, she explores how even though innovation withholds the power to change society for the better, within innovation lies a huge ethical responsibility. As a result, she emphasizes the idea that real innovation lies in the moral choices we make when unraveling its immense power. Christine is passionate about exploring the intersection of science, ethics, and society. She enjoys researching about emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence while engaging in discussions about their moral implications. 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 Powell’s TED Talk, Innovation of Language, he dives into one of the most overlooked displays of innovation the world often misses, that being language. Through a multitude of real-world examples and intricacies, he sheds a whole new light on the nuances language truly withholds. Powell is passionate about world languages as well as how they influence both culture and identity. He enjoys exploring the connections between linguistics, global community, and empathy. 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

Speaking about the future of geographic data and its impacts, Vandegrift High School student Shaye Wirth aims to utilize her passions for global affairs, business, and technology to delve into new research presenting their correlations. Outside of her studies, Shaye Wirth enjoys participating in a variety of student organizations, working on her blog, and reading books about cyberterrorism and history. 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

Lasya Kesapragada uses her passion for affordable fashion to educate others, especially teenagers, on how they can express themselves with low-cost options and innovation with what they already have. Outside of her studies, Laasya Kesapragada uses her time to focus on creating her non-profit organization, baking, going to the gym, listening to music, and researching her curiosities regarding neuroscience and psychology. 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's transition from extreme sports to adaptive activities for people with disabilities shifted his definition of courage from conquering nature to having patience, understanding, and care for others. He successfully created a national community that offers kayaking, skiing with adapted chairs, and accessible beaches, giving participants a crucial feeling of belonging and transforming them from spectators into active members. With a genuine passion for water sports and a clear vision for accessibility, Ionuț Stancovici is the man behind some of the most courageous and innovative social integration projects in Romania. Through the Caiac SMile Association, he has created initiatives that have adapted lakes, beaches, slopes, and mountain trails for people with disabilities, truly changing the lives of thousands.He has trained coaches with disabilities, facilitated legislative changes, and brought courage where others saw limits. For Ionuț, sport isn't just movement—it's freedom, equality, and self-confidence.? "Any of my friends with special needs can do everything that I can do." 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 Aashka’s TED Talk, Reimagining Home: The Innovation in Affordable Housing, she explores how groundbreaking technologies such as 3D-printed houses and tiny homes and redefining the true definition of what it means to have a home in the modern age. Ultimately, through looking at a local Austin lens, she emphasizes upon the idea that the housing crisis is so much more than just building, but rather it’s about constructing communities united by hope. Aashka Kancharla is the Founder and President of Habitat for Humanity at Vandegrift High School, driven by a deep passion for affordable housing and a strong ambition to study architecture—ideally in New York City. Beyond her architectural pursuits, she is an avid reader and writer, eager to explore the literary world. She also has a love for long-distance running, using it as a way to discover new trails, cities, and races. 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