The talk argues that AI systems reflect and reinforce existing social inequalities, leading to real-world harm through biased data, stereotypes, structural discrimination, and global injustice. Rather than being a purely technical issue, AI ethics is a deeply philosophical and societal question about the kind of world we want to create. True progress requires diverse perspectives and a collective ethical conversation about justice, inclusion, and responsibility. Ajuna (23) has a background in philosophy and specializes in the ethics of artificial intelligence. She is particularly interested in how AI impacts human rights and social inequality, and in promoting diversity and inclusion in this context. As founder of the Data Ethics Center of Expertise, she helps government organizations use algorithms responsibly through training and research. She has also been chosen as one of the global 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics (2024) and was the first Young Thinker of the Nation for her talent to discuss complex social issues in an inspiring and accessible 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

How the excavation of the ancient city of Heraclea Sintica reveals unsuspected secrets from the past? And why archaeology is not only science but a cause with profound cultural and social impact. "Knowing from a young age what you are drawn to and what you want to do is luck. But to follow your calling, you need courage", says Lyudmil Vagalinski. Although history is close to his heart to this day, surprisingly he was not accepted into the History Faculty on his first attempt. He had to go to the mandatory at the time military service for two years to return to "his own" path to archaeology. Prof. Vagalinski is the creator and editor-in-chief of the archaeology journal Archaeologia Bulgarica. He leads large-scale national and international projects, including the excavations of the ancient city of Heraclea Sintica near the village of Rupite, the Roman colony Deultum near the village of Debelt, and many more. Spending half the year in excavations, Prof. Vagalinski says “When you turn your hobby into a profession, you are in a constant state of recharge and exhaustion”. 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

Our speaker, Syed Maaz Hasan, inspired our audience by telling us about "The Lost Art of Discipline". Like the intricate workings of a plane, Maaz speaks to our hearts and talks about how we can rediscover discipline in our daily routines. I am an Australian student at Uptown International School. Although I was originally from Pakistan, I was born in the UAE and moved to Australia for eight years. My speech reflects on my past experiences and how I overcame them. I have always wanted to exceed or stand out in public speaking and have always looked for opportunities to do so. I believe that collecting experience and building my knowledge will aid me in success in whatever career I take on. I strongly believe that the more risks I take and the new things I try will allow me to stand out and leave an impact. 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

Sai's thought-provoking speech encourages us to question the moral gray area involved in lies. Through a set of tried and tested examples, Sai explores the moral ambiguity integrated into lying and exposes the truth behind lying. Hello! I am Sai Venkatraghavan, speaking at TEDxYouth@UIS.I have a passion for public speaking and debating, and there is no better opportunity than TEDxYouth@UIS! I am honored to present my talk on the Grey Area, where I dive into the Truth About Lying. I will explore how lies shape our lives, the surprising reasons we tell them, and how you could go wrong in lying. A few of my hobbies are swimming, singing, dancing and playing netball. I do swimming outside school and I attend a lot of competitions inside and outside school. Looking ahead, I aspire to participate in as many competitions and events as I can, expanding my knowledge on a wide range of things. I can’t wait to share my ideas and connect with others through this amazing experience, and to explore the story behind lying with an audience. 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 Olympics is one of the longest-standing and largest global sporting events. However, Anaya reveals the inner flaws with how they are run and the various implications that the Olympics impose on their host countries. She questions if the payoff for the Olympics is worth it and questions if it's an event that should continue running. Hi, I'm Anaya Toor, a 15 year old with a passion for English, history, and public speaking. I have had an extensive experience of public speaking over the years, as shown by my involvement in debate competitions and MUN for three years running. I have chosen to participate in this year's TEDx due to my passion for public speaking, and my passion for the topic I will speak on. I sincerely hope you all take something away from my speech, and it gives you something to think about, because for me, that's what's most important. 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 talk, Zaid explores the various ethical grey areas within medicine. Through an in-depth analysis of the current medical systems, Zaid uncovers the various systems that are intertwined with human health and profitability, condemning the grey area that exists within medicine and calling for reform. Hello! My name is Zaid. I'm from Jordan, and I'm currently in 10th grade in UIS. I really like Biology, Math, and Computer Science, and I enjoy swimming. I also like public speaking and debating and am super excited to be able to share my ideas with everyone. I'm very interested in Medicine and I really hope to do it in the future, and I hope to meet new people through TEDx. 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