In a stirring TEDxNYU Shanghai talk titled “Dancing to Who I Am,” Yuanyuan Tan invited the audience to “close your eyes—refuse to see walls at all,” before tracing her extraordinary path from a late‑blooming student to international gold‑medalist, SF Ballet principal, and finally to professor and artistic director in China. Through tales of coin‑flips, injury‑defying dedication, and a courageous leap into new roles, Tan makes the case that artistry—and life—are defined by continual rebirth. Ms. Tan began her ballet journey at age 11 at the Shanghai Dance School, swiftly gaining global recognition with gold medals and the Nijinsky Award. Joining SF Ballet in 1995, she became its youngest and first Chinese principal dancer. Honored by Time as a "Hero of Asia" and recipient of the Dance Magazine Award, she concluded nearly 30 years with SF Ballet in 2024. Today, she directs the Dance Collaboration Center at Shanghai Theatre Academy and serves as Artistic Director of Suzhou Ballet. 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
More from TED
- 9:05The Changing World | Ms ADITI RATHORE | TEDxBodhi International SchoolThe Changing World of Education Aditi Rathore is an experienced educator and certified Subconscious Reboot Coach, dedicated to transforming lives through mindset mastery. With over a decade of working with parents, children, and educators, she specializes in reprogramming the subconscious mind using principles of manifestation, emotional intelligence, and the law of attraction. Aditi has led impactful workshops on parenting, public speaking, and mindset development, especially for young learners. Trained by legendary coaches like Blair Singer, she empowers individuals to unlock their true potential and design the life they desire—one thought at a time. 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
- 15:15Why Us, Why Now?: Gen Z’s Call for Change. | Raahim Waqas | TEDxBard CollegeAs an International Student Raahim Waqas shares his experiences navigating racism in America and explores how Gen Z is reshaping activism and advocacy through collective action and digital fluency. This talk highlights the power of students in driving meaningful change and redefining social movements for the future. Raahim Waqas Khan is a sophomore studying political science and psychology at Bard College at Simon's Rock. Born and Raised in Lahore, Pakistan, Raahim is a member of the General Assembly of the Council for Equity and Inclusion at Bard College, as well as the student representative on the Academic Senate: Policy and Program committee. Raahim has an extensive background in debate, Model UN and student advocacy. His research interests lie in student movements and the anthropology of international conflicts. Raahim looks forward to bringing his experiences in student advocacy and community inclusion to bridge the gaps between generations and highlight the importance and effects of student led movements for the socioeconomic and political climate of the future. 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
- 12:34From Lights to Lenses: Living Two Lives in One Lifetime | Suyash Tilak | TEDxPCCOERFrom Lights to Lenses: Living Two Lives in One Lifetime" is a powerful TED Talk by a former actor who left the spotlight to find purpose behind the camera. Sharing a deeply personal journey from red carpets to rainforests, they reveal how the glamour of film gave way to a calling in wildlife photography and conservation. This is a story of reinvention, passion, and finding truth in unexpected places—where fame fades but purpose comes into focus. Suyash is a renowned Indian film and television actor, best known for his roles in 'Ka Re Durava' and 'Coffee Ani Barach Kahi'. Apart from acting, he is a passionate wildlife enthusiast and wildlife photographer. 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
- 14:55Mic Check: Finding My Voice in a World That Said No | Mrunal Shankar | TEDxPCCOER"Mic Check: Finding My Voice in a World That Said No" is a powerful story of defiance, identity, and rhythm. In this TED Talk, a female rapper shares her journey of breaking into a male-dominated industry, turning rejection into resilience, and using her voice—not just to rhyme, but to rise. From being told she didn’t belong to owning every stage she steps on, this is a raw, inspiring look at what it means to speak up, stand tall, and spit truth in a world that tried to silence her. Mrunal Shankar is a dynamic rapper, singer, and songwriter from Pune, who was a finalist on MTV Hustle 3.0. She is also a guitarist and gained fame for her songs Punyachi Por and Ameeri, which showcase her voice modulation and melodic music. 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
- 14:35Himalayan Conservation: A Ranger's View | Dharmendra Budthapa | TEDxQuest International CollegeExplore Nepal’s rich mountain ecosystems, the role of Protected Areas in conserving biodiversity, and urgent challenges like climate change, unsustainable development, and policy gaps from a ranger’s firsthand experience.Dharmendra Budthapa, a seasoned National park ranger with over 8 years of experience in the Hindu Kush Himalayan region. A passionate advocate for wildlife preservation and sustainable development, he brings insights on conserving mountain ecosystems and tackling climate challenges. 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
- 16:34Turning Knowledge into Action | Haytham Torkey | TEDxEtTagammoThis talk explores how academic learning, real-world experience, and determination come together to turn ideas into a successful business journey. Mr. Haytham Torkey brings over 22 years of experience serving financial institutions, including commercial, investment, and Islamic banks, insurance companies, financial corporations, and mutual funds across Egypt and the Gulf region.He is an expert in IFRS, General Accounting Principles, Financial Risk Management, Internal Auditing, Internal Control, the COSO Framework, and Corporate Governance.He has held senior leadership roles at several international professional firms, including serving as Audit Partner and Senior Audit Manager at global firms such as KPMG, Ernst & Young, and Crowe. 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
