In this energetic TEDx talk, Yash Tiwari, author, speaker, and a youth mental health advocate, dives into the power of self-confidence and the impact of our inner monologue on our mental well-being. With his vibrant and relatable energy, Yash reveals the hidden roots of modern anxiety—self-doubt, societal opinions, fear of comparisons, and hesitation—all of which shape how we perceive ourselves and our potential. As a transformative solution, he introduces the concept of Mindful Introspective Communication: the art of consciously reframing our inner dialogue to empower us. His talk resonates deeply with young minds navigating pressure, uncertainty, and noise, reminding us that true clarity begins within. Whether you’re a student, leader, or changemaker, this talk will leave you reflecting on how you speak to the most important person in your life which is yourself. Yash Tiwari is a young Indian author, speaker, and filmmaker, known for his award-winning short film 'The Three Hues.' A central part of his work is the "Mindful Introspective Communication" method, a concept he developed to provide a tangible solution for managing anxiety. He aims to equip individuals with practical tools to overcome self-doubt and build resilience. His approachable and energetic style makes these important conversations impactful, establishing him as a resonant voice in youth empowerment. 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 this inspiring TEDx talk, Suraj Patel through the story of Raunak, a ninth-grade student from rural India, Suraj explores the huge and transformative impact of technology and education on individuals and entire communities.He dives into real-world success stories including the rejuvenation of a 30-kilometer stretch of an extinct river in Fatehpur and the revamp of Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) using adaptive learning technologies in collaboration with the NITI Aayog and the IIT Bombay. Highlighting the high rise in digital service adoption, Suraj makes a powerful advice for the next generation of engineers and innovators to focus on hyperlocal language models, low-cost skilling platforms, and grassroots tech innovation. This talk is a call for youth to shift from job seekers to job creators, and to build solutions that are inclusive and scalable in real India. Mr. Suraj Patel, an alumnus of MNNIT Allahabad and a current IAS officer, is a leader focused on the transformative power of technology and education. He has been involved in significant social and environmental projects, including the rejuvenation of a 30-kilometer stretch of a once-extinct river in Fatehpur. In the education sector, he has worked on reforming the infrastructure of Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) by implementing adaptive learning technologies, a collaborative effort with NITI Aayog and IIT Bombay. 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

We are taught to chase perfection, control outcomes, and have it all figured out. But what if the secret to real growth lies in doing the opposite? In this talk, Zhalay Sarhadi unpacks the overlooked power of unlearning letting go of control, old definitions of success, and societal expectations. Through the lens of lived experiences, she argues that the courage to surrender, adapt, and recalibrate is not weakness it’s wisdom. e.A force to be reckoned with, Zhalay Sarhadi has carved her name in the entertainment industry with sheer talent, determination and professionalism. From powerful performance to redefining versality, she continues to set new benchmarks in her field. 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 the freedom to choose wasn’t the only path to growth? In this thought-provoking talk, Javeria Faraz, challenges the common belief that freedom and success go hand-in-hand. Sharing her journey of launching a business under strict cultural and family constraints, she argues that limitations whether social, structural, or self-imposed can sharpen ambition, fuel creativity, and build resilience. This talk is a call to reframe how we view constraint: not as an obstacle, but as a catalyst. And perhaps the most radical kind of power isn’t in pushing boundaries, but in choosing when to let go. An IBA student and a thriving entrepreneur, Javeria Faraz turned vision into reality by building her own successful business. With multiple accolades to her name, she is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the power of taking bold steps. 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 global fertility rate across high-income nations continues to decline, for many reasons including rising rates of infertility, delayed childbearing, and insufficient support for new parents, especially mothers. In the U.S., we face a unique landscape of regulations and realities that make undertaking and achieving a healthy pregnancy increasingly difficult. As a society, we should be investing in our growth and health, and a clear-eyed understanding of how we can do so in a broad and comprehensive way is necessary to doing so. Now is the time! Rashmi Kudesia, MD, MSc is a triple board-certified expert in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, obstetrics and gynecology, and lifestyle medicine. Since 2018, she has been caring for patients at CCRM Fertility Houston, where she has received multiple annual clinical recognition awards and serves as director of patient education and Sugar Land site director. She is also an assistant clinical professor at the Houston Methodist Hospital.After graduating magna cum laude from Brown University, she received her medical degree with honors from Duke University School of Medicine. Her ob-gyn residency at the New York Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical Center was followed by a reproductive endocrinology and infertility fellowship at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine-Montefiore Medical Center and a master’s of science degree in clinical research methods. She subsequently served as a clinical assistant professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and medical director of the Brooklyn office of the Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York before relocating to Texas. Dr. Kudesia has served in multiple local and national leadership roles in organized medicine and is a public advocate for reproductive health. Dr. Kudesia has presented scientific research at national and international conferences, published in leading peer-reviewed journals, and received multiple awards and grants for her work. She is also author of the book Understanding Fertility Awareness Methods: Gaining Control of Your Fertility. In her free time, you’ll find her mostly hanging out with her husband, their two girls, and furbaby Bowser. 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

Animation works because your eyes and brain hold on to images even after they’re gone. In the true spirit of TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) Brian McLean of Laika takes us into the world of stop-motion animation, 3D printing, and the incredible breakthroughs at the intersection of art and science.****** We could not do this without community support. With special thanks to the University of Oregon for their presenting partnership. The world-class stage production by For Good & Co. The incredible legacy bound Event Book provided by Premier Press. Lastly, the brand identity and creative digital craft provided by our Agency of Record - Thesis. All of our Partners and event history can be found at TEDxPortland.com.Brian McLean is LAIKA’s Director of Rapid Prototype and was awarded a Scientific and Engineering Oscar® in 2016 for pioneering the use of 3D printers in stop-motion animation. In 2017, he received an Academy Award® nomination for Best Visual Effects for his contributions to Kubo and the Two Strings. In 2009, Brian won an Annie Award for Special Achievement in Animation for his work on Coraline and was named by VARIETY as one of 2012's "Animation Elite.”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