Emma talks about her experience as she conquers the challenge of changing schools in various different countries, and how her own cultural background has affected her perspective on grades, academics, and school in general. Hi I’m Emma. I am grateful to have joined the last “FIB generation” of UWCSEA Dover. I am very pleased to share a real-life story which I have been going through while I was first transferring from a totally German domestic school in Shanghai to an international school in Shanghai. The different life experiences and beliefs people had gave me a hard time to "structure” my values and boundaries. As a half White half-Asian person, invisible boundaries appeared in my life were making me struggle quite a bit in my first few years of middle school (G5-G6). However, I overcame this with support from my parents and friends, funny and happy moments are still lying in my memory. 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

Julia Piorko Bermig explores how the history of her own culture has changed how she perceives various issues. Julia Piórko Bermig is a Grade 11 student from Poland, Germany, and Belgium. Her speech is based on her experience volunteering at the KZ/KL Stutthof Museum, a former Nazi concentration camp located in Sztutowo, Poland - her grandparents' hometown. She will focus on our power to overcome cyclical narratives of history striving toward ameliorative governance—one that refracts history, rather than repeating it. Outside of this, she is passionate about writing, photography, and collecting old books and records. 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

Nicola Pak delves into how social media affects what we read and how we perceive the world around us. Nicola Pak is a G12 student from Singapore. As a published author, National Library workshop facilitator and two-time New York Times finalist, she’ll explore the role of literature in presenting a refracted version of reality, and the impact of media curation on the dominant narratives being presented. How do social media algorithms, publishing houses and the Western Canon determine the books we read, and by extension, the thoughts we think? Why is conscious consumption important, and how can we regain agency over it? When she’s not asking rhetorical questions, Nicola also enjoys cooking, chemistry and learning Asian languages. 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

At 11 years old, Ștefan watched The Dark Knight and knew—he wanted to be the Joker. But dreams don’t always unfold the way we expect. As he approaches 28, the age Heath Ledger was when he filmed his iconic role, he wrestles with ambition, self-doubt, and the reality of making it as an actor. Comparing himself to Hollywood stars, battling frustration, and learning hard truths about fairness, he discovers that success isn’t measured by age but by perseverance. A chance encounter with Cillian Murphy leaves him with a powerful lesson: Be fearless. Because in life, just like in film, you don’t need to own every moment—just the right ones. Ștefan Iancu, born on December 26, 1997, in Bucharest, began acting at the age of four. He appeared alongside Oscar Isaac in PU-239 and Abraham F. Murray in The Day of the Siege 1683. His career includes roles in notable Romanian and international productions, such as Amintiri din Epoca de Aur, Nașa, and Kira Kiralina. Ștefan made his theatre debut at Metropolis Theatre before finishing high school and later studied at the National University of Theatre and Film “I.L. Caragiale.” In 2018, he won the Gopo Award for Best Young Hope for his performance in Un Pas în Urma Serafimilor. He captivated audiences for four seasons in the ProTV series Vlad and gained international recognition as Felix in Killing Eve, earning the Best Newcomer award at Subtitle Talent Festival. Currently a full-time actor at Toma Caragiu Theatre, he starred in Libertate (2023) and will appear in the much-anticipated movie Hoții de Subiecte (The Subject Thieves), directed by Tudor Petremarin. 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

Jianu Karina-Andreea grew up in a small town where dreams often clashed with reality. Torn between her parents’ expectations and her passion for acting, she faced doubt, rejection, and the fear of failure. But through relentless determination, sacrifices, and the courage to be herself, she proved that talent and perseverance can break any barrier. From secretly pursuing theater in high school to landing a role in a feature film, Karina’s journey is a testament to following your calling—no matter the odds. Karina-Andreea Jianu, born on November 16, 2002, in Botoșani, is a rising star in theatre and film. A 2024 graduate of U.N.A.T.C. I.L. Caragiale Bucharest, where she trained under Professor George Ivașcu, Karina has already made her mark with roles in productions such as Double Fiesta, Iubiri Senile, and Dreptate pentru un Criminal. She has also appeared in short films like Blocada and Noaptea de vineri a Milenei.Currently starring as Ana Popa in the Antena 1 TV series, Karina recently debuted in cinema as Sofi in Hoții de Subiecte (The Subject Thieves), a film about four teenagers navigating the consequences of selling SAT subjects online. Beyond acting, she is passionate about horseback riding, contemporary dance, basketball, and yoga.At TEDx Questfield Intl College Youth, Karina will share her insights on education and ambition, offering a fresh perspective on the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing 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

AI is changing work, but it’s not replacing us. It’s freeing us. History proves that automation doesn’t kill progress—it fuels it. AI isn’t a threat; it’s an opportunity. A chance to shift from repetitive tasks to meaningful work, to build, create, and innovate. Fear won’t stop change—but adaptation will shape its outcome. The question isn’t whether AI will take jobs. It’s whether we’ll use it to make life better. Dragos’ high school life has been defined by academic debating, a passion that offered him the opportunity to speak about history, politics, geopolitics, and philosophy in a competitive environment. He has been representing the Romanian National Team at international debate competitions for three years, managing to yield his nation the Vice-Champion title at the Euopean Schools Debating Championship for two years in a row, along with other results such as reaching quarters, semifinals and top speaker awards at other tournaments.Nationally, he has won 3 national debate competitions and the National Olympiad.Amongst the subjects that he has debated, one of the most intensely discussed ones has been A.I. and its future impact upon humanity, one that he’ll try to paint a bright picture of in his speech at TedXQuestfield. titlul discursului: “A.I. is replacing us, so what?” 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

AI is transforming music—analyzing, predicting, even composing. It’s powerful. But is it human? No. Because music isn’t just about perfection; it’s about emotion, vulnerability, the unpredictable beauty of imperfection. AI can assist, but it can’t feel. It can enhance creativity, but it can’t replace the soul behind the song. The future of music isn’t AI-driven—it’s AI-empowered. And the real magic? That still belongs to us. Hi, I’m Natalia, and I’m grateful to be here today to talk about AI in education and my relevance to it as a rising artist.Music has always been a big part of my life. I spent the last five years playing piano, and at the age of 7, I had the chance to perform on Next Star, a TV show that gave me my first taste of performing. That passion for expression led me to new opportunities, like being invited to speak on Radio 7.But beyond music, I’ve also been drawn to exploring big ideas and new perspectives. That’s what led me to attend two CWMUN events in Rome, where I engaged in discussions about global issues and the future.I believe creativity and learning are deeply connected, and AI is shaping both in exciting ways. 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

AI is here, transforming education at lightning speed. But can it replace teachers? No. Because learning isn’t just about facts—it’s about emotions, human connection, and the spark that makes knowledge come alive. AI can adapt lessons, explain concepts in a hundred ways, and personalize education like never before. But it can’t feel, it can’t care, and it can’t inspire the way a teacher can. AI isn’t the enemy, but it’s not the teacher either. It’s a tool—powerful, useful, and game-changing—if we use it wisely. Elena is a very kind and friendly person. She is speaking fluently Romanian, English and Greek, studying also French. Elena loves maths and science, being also talented in crafting. She likes swimming and karate. She enjoys travelling, discovering new places, cultures, local food, and flavours. If she had had a magic power, she would make all people happy. 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 future where no child is left behind, AI isn’t a replacement for teachers—it’s their greatest ally. Imagine a world where learning adapts to every student, where barriers of ability and access are shattered, and where education finally fits the individual, not the average. But while AI personalizes learning, human connection remains irreplaceable. The challenge? Bridging the digital gap before it widens. The opportunity? A revolution in education that raises everyone up. The future isn’t waiting—it’s here. Are we ready to embrace it? Alex is a Year 8 student at Questfield International College – a fast thinker, curious mind and detail-seeker who never settles for easy answers. With top academic results, he’s passionate about science, math, and technology, and is equally energized by a good debate or a spirited cycling race or basketball game. 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

Step into a Wonderland of curiosity where questions unlock new worlds! In this inspiring letter to a son, a mother reflects on the power of asking, exploring, and challenging the unknown. From childhood wonder to AI-driven futures, she traces how curiosity has shaped history, science, and personal growth—proving it’s not just a trait but a skill to sharpen. In a world overflowing with answers, the true magic lies in the questions we dare to ask. Are you ready to chase the White Rabbit? Carmen Punga is dedicated to driving data-driven and human creativity for global growth. With over a decade at Google, she has empowered Romanian entrepreneurs, supported startup innovation, and partnered with top tech brands to expand their reach. As Sales Lead of RO LCS, Carmen leads a team of consultants working with advanced businesses in retail, global tech, and regional hubs. Her focus is on fostering strategic partnerships and growing Google’s business in Romania and Bulgaria under the motto “g[RO]w to glow.” Known for sensing trends and creating opportunities, Carmen thrives at the intersection of insights and ingenuity to unlock growth potential. 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