What if your biggest failures were actually your greatest teachers?In this vulnerable and inspiring TEDx talk, Amina shares how two public failures—one as a schoolchild frozen on stage, the other at her first-ever film audition—sparked a lifelong journey of self-transformation. From being mocked as the "National Anthem Girl" to standing confidently on a TEDx stage, her story is a testament to the power of small, intentional habits: reading to understand the mind, observing deeply, and applying knowledge with purpose.With wisdom grounded in lived experience, she reminds us that greatness often begins quietly—through subtle choices, quiet growth, and the courage to try again. It’s not the spotlight, but the little steps in the shadows that shape who we become. Amina Nijam is a talented and versatile actor who first gained recognition through the acting reality show "Nayika Nayakan" in 2018. She made her film debut in the 2020 blockbuster crime thriller "Anjaam Pathiraa" and has since appeared in several notable films, including "Aaraam Thirukalpana," "Turkish Tharkkam," "Mayavanam," and "Pattapakal." She also worked with Mammootty in "Turbo." Beyond films, Amina has showcased her acting prowess in popular web series such as "Love Out for Delivery," "Feny," "Sebastiante Velliyazhcha," and "Life Jor Season 2." Her performances in short films like "The Chef" and "Bakku" have also been widely appreciated.Additionally, Amina has made notable appearances in music videos, including "Vellikkolusin" and "Njanaa." 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
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- 6:56How chess made me a better tennis player | Mercedes Laub | TEDxSaintAndrewsSchoolIn this talk, Mercedes Laub explores the surprising similarities between chess and tennis, shedding light on how strategic thinking in one sport can improve performance in the other. Mercedes is a seventh Grader at Saint Andrews, where she has been attending for 1 year. She is originally from Brooklyn, New York, but moved to Florida 3 years ago. You will usually find her playing tennis, painting, and dancing ballet. She also loves reading whenever she has free time. Mercedes loves traveling to Spain, New York, and Germany during the summer with her family. When she's not on the tennis court after school, she typically spends her time studying online, focusing on languages like German and Spanish. She joined TED-Ed to improve her writing and vocabulary skills. She also wants to inform people how her passion can relate to something as common as chess. 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
- 16:04Beyond Unicorns: The True Magic of Sustainable Startups | Udit Goenka | TEDxAISSMSCOEIn the startup world, "Unicorns" symbolize billion-dollar valuations but at what cost? Udit Goenka challenges the obsession with mythical growth, exposing its hidden risks through real stories like GoMechanic's collapse. He introduces sustainable alternatives "Zebras" and "Camels" startups that prioritize real profits and community impact. Drawing inspiration from Zoho and Zerodha, Udit redefines success as lasting, ethical, and value-driven. He urges entrepreneurs to move beyond the unicorn myth and embrace sustainable business models that prioritize resilience, impact, and true value creation. Because real success is measured in legacy, not just valuation. Udit Goenka is a SaaS and AI entrepreneur who is the founder and CEO of PitchGround, which is a startup-business marketplace. He is also the head of TinyCheque, India's first AI-driven SaaS venture studio, building platforms such as Niyam.ai and QCall.ai. He started entrepreneurship at the age of 18 by launching a WordPress security solution and co-founded Power Up Hosting later on. He has also guided and invested in more than 35 startups based on automation and scalability. A member of the Forbes Business Council, he posts about SaaS growth and digital strategies. His businesses have helped drive more than $14 million in SaaS sales. 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
- 11:40Empowered Women Empower Generations | Umang Shridhar | TEDxAvantika UniversityWhen a woman is empowered, she doesn't just change her own life—she transforms generations. From villages to boardrooms, from artisans to entrepreneurs—women are shaping the future with strength, resilience, and vision. Education, skill, and opportunity fuel this transformation. And when one woman rises, she lifts others with her. In my Ted x talk i want to honor and ignite the power of women. Because empowered women don’t just change their world—they change THE world! Umang Shridhar is Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia (2019) honoree, is a social entrepreneur and textile designer dedicated to empowering rural artisan women. 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
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