Student voice is more than just speaking up in class; it's about actively engaging with the school community to discover your potential beyond academic strengths. Brittany Johnston is from a small suburban town in Ontario, Canada. She completed a BA in English and Sociology at Queen’s University (in Canada, not Ireland) and has an education degree from the University of Western Ontario. She began her teaching career here in Shanghai, working for two years in Jinshan District and then moving to the city proper where she has lived for the past two years. As an educator, she tries to foster a love of learning by guiding students to apply and extend what they have learned through a variety of activities and projects. Outside of the classroom, you may find her meandering through the streets of Shanghai in search of a good cup of coffee; or exploring the world and China through food at one of the many excellent restaurants in the city. 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

Respect and listen to the ideas of older adults, and appreciate the valuable message they have to share I am Alex, a grade 11 student from Qibao Dwight and an advocate for minority voices. Through the process of exploring different perspectives, I have come to realize the value of underappreciated voices and why they deserve to be heard. For example, the voices of elderly people in our rapidly aging society often remain a taboo subject for many. I hope this speech will encourage people to shift their perspectives, respect and listen to the ideas of older adults, and appreciate the valuable messages they have to share. 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 imaginative and heartfelt TEDxYouth talk, Nijar Ahmed explores the wonder of curiosity and how it shapes who we become. Using the metaphor of "chasing bubbles," Nijar invites us to see life as an endless journey of exploration, where asking questions and seeking new experiences leads to growth, creativity, and deeper meaning. Her talk is a joyful reminder that curiosity isn’t just for children—it’s the spark that keeps us learning, dreaming, and truly living. Nijar Ahmed has always taken her position as a student as something more than just a temporary occupation; it is part of her identity – not just a student of NIS, but a student of life, taking pride in the lessons she learns every day. Her insatiable curiosity and passion for learning has given her a fresh perspective on her life’s purpose: pursuit of knowledge and new experiences. And not just any knowledge, but something that she can share and benefit from, a door to new opportunities. Ever since she was young, she had trouble defining her interests because of how varied they were. From art to food to reading, she had a new hobby every week, but even when she had finished one chapter and started the next, she always carried a new perspective she’d gained along with her to the next adventure. 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 community is where mutual support between people flows. I am a community-based storyteller who is not just in documenting facts but in telling stories that bridge perspectives and connect people. We often lose touch with the surrounding communities in a world that thrives on speed and efficiency. My journey has been seeking my "voice" through the camera lens. During this path, I encountered "Buy42," a charitable store that resonated deeply with me. It's altruistic projects, and inclusive spirit stirred something profound within. Through documentary filmmaking, I strive to dismantle stereotypes surrounding the "disabled community," to weave narratives that foster connection and understanding. 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

Challenging gender norms in a changing world 6th Form Student at Wycombe Abbey School Hangzhou 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 TEDxYouth talk, Grace Zeidan opens up about her journey toward embracing self-love in a world that often demands perfection. With honesty and heart, she explores the struggles many young people face with self-worth, confidence, and acceptance. Grace shares how practicing self-love can be a radical act of healing—and why it’s essential for leading a fulfilled and empowered life. Her message is a reminder to every viewer: you are enough, just as you are. Grace Zeidan, a cordial student with a vibrant character, dreams of blooming flowers of joy in the hearts she encounters on a day-to-day. Still, she has her sights set high with a fierce passion for education and reading. She’s had aspirations of becoming a lawyer since the age of 12 and has enveloped herself in the world of debate ever since. Grace has a deep rooted belief that life is only as happy as you choose to see it and with that, she steers on an exciting path to bring her dreams from the clouds into reality. Hoping to leave a lasting legacy in the field of law, she puts her all into achieving greatness and soon enough, she’ll most definitely get there. 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