In this moving and electrifying TEDx talk, Chisom Agoawuike explores the extraordinary power of self-belief and how it can break through the toughest barriers life places before us. Drawing from her personal journey as a young Nigerian woman navigating the competitive world of entertainment, Chisom shares how choosing to believe in herself—despite self-doubt, societal pressure, and countless rejections—transformed her dreams into reality.From humble beginnings in Owerri, Imo State, to gracing our screens in award-winning roles, Chisom’s path has been anything but ordinary. Best known for her powerful performances in M-Net’s Halita and the AMVCA-winning drama The Rishantes, she has captivated audiences with her versatility and authenticity. But behind the applause lies a deeper story of resilience—of a woman who, time and time again, chose to bet on herself even when the odds were against her.With heartfelt honesty and radiant confidence, Chisom challenges the limiting beliefs that often hold people back—especially women—and invites us to reimagine what’s possible when we dare to silence the inner critic and act with bold conviction. Her message is clear: ceilings—whether societal, professional, or internal—are meant to be shattered.Beyond the screen, Chisom is a passionate public health advocate, merging her academic background with her platform to champion health and wellness causes. Now embracing a new chapter in her career, she’s stepping into the role of a producer, determined to tell impactful stories and shape narratives from behind the scenes.Today, Chisom Agoawuike stands as a symbol of possibility—a fearless creative, role model, and emerging voice in Africa’s film industry. Her talk is a testament to the magic that unfolds when you believe in yourself, take the leap, and rise above every ceiling.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 Chisom Agoawuike is a versatile Nigerian actor, model, and former beauty queen born in Owerri, Imo state. She has gained widespread recognition for her captivating performances on stage and screen.Her breakout role in the hit M-Net series "Halita" and "The Rishantes" - which won Best Original Drama Series at the 2022 AMVCA's - showcased her impressive range and talent. Currently, she stars in several prominent projects on YouTube and Showmax.Chisom's unique ability to embody characters from diverse backgrounds and ages has made her a sought-after talent among directors.As a graduate of public health from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, she is a passionate advocate for promoting public health initiatives.With a growing foundation in the film industry, Chisom is eager to expand her portfolio as a producer in the years to come. 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

Bajrayogini Nritya is a sacred Buddhist dance from Nepal that portrays the wrathful red dakini, Vajrayogini. Rooted in the Charya Nritya tradition of Newar Buddhism, this ritual dance uses movement, visualization, and awareness to embody enlightened qualities. Performed to liberate the mind through the body, it’s a powerful expression of devotion, meditation, and spiritual transformation. Rofiya Shakya, a talented animator by profession with a deep passion for dancing and the arts! From an early age, Rofiya has embraced the beauty of Charya dance and showcased her skills by winning a talent show in 2015.Recently, she brought her passion to life in the stunning Pancha Buddha nritya in Lumbini, captivating audiences with her creativity and grace. 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 Amazon Basin is crucial for global climate regulation, with its rivers and evapotranspiration systems influencing weather patterns across continents. It's been described as the beating heart of the earth's living system. However, the rainforest is at a tipping point of collapse due to deforestation and prolonged droughts, exacerbated by human activities. Urgent action is needed and indigenous peoples are in a strong position to protect this critical ecosystem. Indigenous-led initiatives in Ecuador and Peru are having success in biodiversity conservation and community well-being through a collective alliance towards a shared goal. The alliance between 30 indigenous groups are working to restore rainforest and advocate for rights, while training the next generation in both traditional knowledge and new technology. To truly meet the challenge will require this paradigm shift towards aligning human well-being with nature's flourishing, achieved through collective action. Atossa Soltani has been directing global campaigns for indigenous peoples rights and protection of tropical rainforests for over three decades. Atossa is the Founder and Board President of Amazon Watch, a nonprofit organization founded in 1996 to protect the rainforest and advance the rights of indigenous peoples of the Amazon Basin (www.amazonwatch.org). Atossa served as Amazon Watch's first Executive Director for 18 years and continues to support the organization's mission as Board President. Currently Atossa is the Director of Global Strategy for the Amazon Sacred Headwaters Alliance, supporting a coalition of 30 Indigenous nations in Ecuador and Peru that aims to protect 35 million hectares of tropical rainforests by establishing a protected region that is off-limits to industrial-scale resource extraction. Atossa is the Hillary Institute’s 2013 Global Laureate for Climate Leadership. 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 might we find alignment and intersections between different ways of knowing? This novel consortium between a scientific research center, a non-profit, an eco-resort, and community action groups brings in different approaches to work together to establish a new model for conservation. One that is rooted in traditional indigenous knowledge to inform scientific research, which in turn tracks and measures impact of conservation efforts. This feedback loop creates an inspiring education model that is training up a new generation of conservation-minded scientists and the conditions for true innovation. Frank Murphy, based in French Polynesia, is currently a Director of Programs at Tetiaroa Society. Frank Murphy brings experience from previous roles at Tahiti Expeditions and University of California, Gump Research Station. Frank Murphy holds an M.A. in Geography from University of California, Berkeley. His focus is finding alignment and intersections between Western research and indigenous wisdom. 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 speech Rafal talks about his experience as a chess coach and how he emphasizes fundamental principles, strategic planning, and personalized guidance to help students develop a deeper understanding of chess. He believes in the power of puzzle-solving to enhance critical thinking and chess creativity. Rafal Malczyk is a Candidate Master and experienced chess coach with a passion for strategic thinking and chess education. Originally from Poland, he started playing chess at the age of 7 and has since competed in over 100 regional, national, and international rapid chess tournaments. With an ELO rating of 2128, he brings competitive experience and deep knowledge of the game to his coaching 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, Calvin Fu shares how to own your narrative in an ever-changing industry. As the founder of a talent management company, he shares candid stories of overcoming startup growing pains, pandemic disruptions, and the delicate balance between art and analytics. With his "protagonist mindset" philosophy, he shows how to navigate uncertainty in business and personal lives. Expect practical wisdom on staying true to your creative core while adapting to new realities, and explore why being the author of your own story matters more than following someone else’s script. Calvin Fu, founder of CHOCO and entertainment marketing pioneer, has served 100+ global brands through industry shifts. With 24 years of experience in the entertainment market and media industry, he has mastered the art of balancing creative vision with smart business adaptation. 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