How do passion projects and mentorship shape who we become? This inspiring talk explores the powerful role that guidance and self-initiated projects play in unlocking potential and creating meaningful connections. It highlights how young people can find direction, confidence, and purpose when given the space to explore their interests with the support of the right mentors. Blending personal insight with real-world examples, the talk offers a blueprint for how mentorship can turn curiosity into impact. It challenges the idea that success is a solo journey and shows the beauty of growing through connection. This is a celebration of passion, guidance, and the human links that help us thrive. Ananya Sachdev is an innovative EdTech founder and the driving force behind a successful higher education mentorship firm. In her TEDx talk, Connecting the Dots: Passion Projects, Mentorship and the Power of Human Connection, she explored how meaningful relationships and guided support can unlock personal potential and academic success. Drawing from her entrepreneurial journey, Ananya highlighted the transformative impact of mentorship and self-driven initiatives. Her talk was an inspiring call to action for students and educators alike to invest in purposeful connections. 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