In Beyond Survival: The Neuroscience of Trauma and Recovery, Varsha Sudharshan unpacks how trauma reshapes the brain—and how healing is not just possible, but deeply scientific. Blending research from neuroscience with her advocacy for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, she challenges common misconceptions about trauma and recovery. Varsha’s talk reveals how understanding the brain’s adaptability can help survivors rebuild their sense of safety, connection, and self, showing that recovery is both a biological and human triumph. Varsha is a third-year neuroscience major, researcher, and Presidential Scholar at Georgia State University. Her research focuses on the effects of opioids during pregnancy and how morphine impacts social development. Beyond the lab, she is a passionate advocate for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, working with organizations such as Survivors Brunch, Table on Delk, and GSU’s Student Victim Association to create safe spaces and resources for healing. In her TEDx talk, she explores how trauma can rewire the brain, dismantles societal myths, and highlights how science and community support can help survivors rebuild and reclaim their 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

In Storytelling: The Powerful Tool for Meaningful Connections, Merissa Ware explores how stories shape identity, foster empathy, and build community. Drawing from her experience as a filmmaker, producer, and author, she illustrates how storytelling goes beyond entertainment—it’s a bridge that connects people across experiences and emotions. Through her journey as a creative and founder of The Dream Collective, Merissa shows how sharing our stories can inspire, heal, and empower both the storyteller and the listener. Merissa is a multimedia storyteller and a graduating senior at Georgia State University majoring in film and media with a minor in marketing. She is a director and technical director for Georgia State Production Network (GSPN), a producer for iN Contact, and the Arts and Living Editor for The Signal, GSU's student newspaper. Merissa is also the founder of her company, The Dream Collective, a community and resource for storytellers. She is the author of the children's book, "Yes I Will". Her passion for storytelling runs deep and she wants to use that to uplift and inspire others. 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 “5 Ways to Manage the Unexpected Pivot,” Julie Palazzolo illustrates how unexpected turns can serve as catalysts for growth rather than setbacks, emphasizing resilience and adaptability as the keys to thriving in change. Curating TEDx Del Sur Women, Sanya Kapoor, a senior at Del Norte High School, brings forward diverse voices like Julie’s to ensure that the event reflects a breadth of experiences and perspectives. Through her leadership, Sanya creates a platform where stories of reinvention and perseverance—such as Julie’s—can inspire communities to embrace transformation with courage and openness. Julie Palazzolo is a dynamic entrepreneur who brings visions to life—whether through real estate ventures or unforgettable event experiences. With a keen eye for possibility and a passion for people, she’s spent the last four years leading the San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering, as well as serving twice as the director of Innovation Day at Petco Park. Known for her ability to see the big picture while crafting meaningful, detail-driven experiences, Julie’s work is fueled by genuine connection, creative insight, and an unwavering commitment to adding value wherever she goes. For her, success isn’t measured in transactions—it’s measured in impact, authenticity, and the relationships built along the way. 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 speech, Chigozirim explores the tension of being fifteen—caught between expectations and identity and challenges the pressure to conform and highlights the power of authenticity. Realness, though uncomfortable, fuels innovation. She urges listeners to embrace their contradictions, question norms, and recognise that impact often begins in quiet moments. Innovation isn’t just tech; it’s truth, imagination, and difference. By being the crossroads between tradition and change, we create new paths. She concludes that one doesn’t need to be perfect to matter but and argues that one just need to be real because that’s where transformation begins. Chigozirim Ruth Isiuwa exemplifies academic excellence, desire for personal growth,responsibility, humility, and civic duty. A deeply thoughtful and intellectually driven student, she has earned a place on Meadow Hall College’s Merit List twice and appeared on the Honor Roll an impressive ten times. Among her academic accomplishments, receiving an A* in early IGCSE English stands out as a indication of her dedication, capability, and passion for learning.Beyond academics, She has actively pursued professional development through meaningful internships. She completed two placements at Chevron Nigeria Limited, gaining firsthand experience in corporate operations and professional environments. Her school-related internship at an architecture firm further ignited her interest in sustainable design and solidified her ambition to become a sustainable architect. Her commitment to service is equally remarkable. 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

A powerful story of RESILIENCE and REINVENTION, this tale reminds us never to give up on ourselves but to embrace every opportunity to grow. Failure is not the end—it is a vital part of the journey. From her humble beginnings in Assam, a simple girl rises to become an award-winning educator, transforming her setbacks into stepping stones and guiding countless students to realize their fullest potential. Yet another truly motivational story curated by Sanya Kapoor for TEDXDelSul Women.Rachna Nath is the Chair of the UNA-USA (United Nations Association) Educator Affinity Group, a Fulbright Scholar, TIME Innovative Educator, an entrepreneur, Innovator, NASA solar system Ambassador, National Geographic Educator, grant writer and a STEM enthusiast. She has won numerous awards/ accolades including being featured as TIME Top 10 Innovative Teacher, FORBES, Business Insider, CEO Weekly and more. 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

Growing up in a middle-class family with lofty aspirations, finding a love for acting and theater, and ultimately realizing the value of perseverance are all inspiring journeys that the speaker takes us on in this heartfelt TEDx talk. He candidly and humorously describes how he battled academics, gave in to parental pressure, skipped classes to pursue acting, and even traveled to Mumbai in pursuit of fame, only to come to the realization that dreams are not created overnight but rather gradually with bravery and perseverance. This talk serves as a stark reminder that all you need is the will to start; you don't need ideal circumstances or total support. This story demonstrates that the journey is more important than the destination for anyone hoping to pursue their dreams of becoming an actor, content creator, or just a regular person. Deepak Garg is a leading digital creator and influencer with a community of over 800,000 followers on Instagram. Known for his engaging and relatable content, Deepak has built a strong personal brand that resonates with audiences across India. His journey reflects the power of consistency, creativity, and authentic storytelling in the digital age. Through his platform, he not only entertains but also inspires millions, making him one of the prominent voices shaping today’s creator economy. 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