In this heartfelt and motivating TEDx talk, Tanushha Rathore, who aspires to crack the UPSC exam and studies psychology, comes back to her old school to look back on how she changed. She went from being a shy, unseen kid to someone who stands proud with self-assurance and a clear goal. She talks about school life in a way many can relate to, touching on the stress of waking up, the push to do well in class, and the feelings students often keep to themselves. Tanushha speaks and about how the same things in life can either hold us back or help us grow – it all depends on how we think about them. She tells stories about being scared, feeling nervous, and how simple words of support from teachers and parents can make a big difference. Her message to every student is clear: we don't come into this world confident – we build it up, one courageous step at a time. Tanushha Rathore is a UPSC aspirant with a Master's in Psychology and an alumnus of KIS. She has earned multiple academic honours, including the Savitri Devi Memorial Prize and the Satyapal Memorial Prize, reflecting her dedication and excellence in her academic pursuits. 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 world flooded with digital messages, what if the most meaningful connection comes from something as simple as pen and paper? In this heartfelt talk, Peyton Christenson makes the case for reviving the lost art of letter writing—sharing personal stories, historical insights, and the emotional richness that handwritten notes uniquely provide. It's time to slow down, write it out, and rediscover the joy of being truly seen. Peyton Christenson is a Finance and Economics senior at GCU, and more importantly, a passionate advocate for reviving letter writing as a powerful and personal form of communication. What began as childhood weekends spent crafting cards with her grandma has grown into a lifelong love for putting pen to paper and spreading joy through the mail.Drawing from personal experiences, global pen pal connections, and historical examples, Peyton’s mission is to inspire others—especially in her generation—to embrace thoughtful, handwritten expression. She believes letter writing can reconnect us in ways that digital communication never could. 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

Why do so many students fear chemistry, and what if we could change that by teaching it like we teach reading? In this fun and story-rich talk, Dr. Colleen Kelley shares how “Molecular Literacy” can revolutionize how we learn and teach science, starting as early as third grade. With comic book characters, games, and songs, she shows that chemistry isn’t just a subject... it’s the shared language of everything. Dr. Colleen Kelley is a retired chemistry professor turned storyteller and the creator of a comic book series designed to make chemistry fun, relatable, and unforgettable for kids and learners of all ages. With over 25 years of experience in chemical education, her mission is to build Molecular Literacy—a foundation of chemistry understanding for everyone, starting young.As the founder of a curriculum that blends science with imagination, Dr. Kelley believes chemistry should be as engaging as storytime. Whether through animated characters like Poppi and Ray or songs about Sweet Calcium, her approach bridges science and play to foster curiosity, confidence, and connection in the next generation of learners. 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

What if the very thing you're hiding is the key to your freedom? In this heartfelt and courageous talk featuring an original song, Lydia Walker shares her journey from secrecy and shame to authenticity and healing, challenging us to embrace the uncomfortable act of being fully known. Because when we stop hiding, we start healing. Lydia Walker is a worship leader, speaker, and member of the music collective LO Worship, where she leads others in faith through powerful storytelling and music. Beyond the stage, Lydia is passionate about helping others discover healing through vulnerability and connection. Having worked closely with young adults in ministry and leadership, Lydia draws from personal experience to speak on identity, emotional freedom, and the power of being truly known. 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

What if your self-worth wasn’t tied to your work, your grades, or your business success? In this empowering talk, Madison Paige challenges the hustle-at-all-costs narrative and introduces the Freepreneur Lifestyle—a mindset that values balance, identity, and joy as fuel for sustainable success. It’s not about doing less, it’s about doing life better. Madison Paige is a business growth strategist and host of a top 2% globally ranked podcast. With over eight years of experience, she has guided more than 500 entrepreneurs in transforming their product-based businesses into standout brands. Madison is the founder of Madison Paige & Co., where she champions the "Freepreneur" lifestyle—emphasizing sustainable growth, community-driven marketing, and personal freedom over relentless hustle.Her entrepreneurial journey began early, managing her family's adventure resort by age 17. After facing the unexpected loss of that business, Madison redefined success on her own terms. Today, she empowers founders to build scalable, freedom-filled businesses through strategic advisory, digital programs, and her widely acclaimed podcast. When she's not advising clients, Madison travels the country in a converted mini school bus, embodying the freedom-focused lifestyle she advocates. 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

What if your thoughts were as easy to scroll through as your social media feed—what story would they tell? In this gripping and raw talk, Trevor Cowley unpacks how one loose thread can unravel a life—and how weaving new patterns of discipline, purpose, and resilience can rebuild it. From addiction and rock bottom to world record-breaking challenges, Trevor shows that action truly changes identity. Trevor Cowley is a serial entrepreneur, podcast host, and personal transformation advocate. After overcoming years of drug addiction and destructive habits, he committed to rebuilding his life through intentional action and relentless self-discipline. Today, he runs multiple successful businesses and shares his journey to help others rewrite their own stories.Trevor is the co-host of the “Real Business Owners” podcast and has inspired thousands by sharing his journey of radical growth—whether it’s running 37 miles on his 37th birthday, or setting his sights on a world record. His mission is to prove that even the most broken threads can be rewoven into something extraordinary. 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