Award-winning journalist and content creator Dorissa shares her transformative journey from the bustling streets of New York City to the heart of Kansas City. Through personal and professional challenges, she discovered the power of patience and learned to embrace uncertainty, finding strength in stillness. Dorissa began her on-air career as a NPR radio host for WSIU in Carbondale, IL before moving to New York City on a whim. Dorissa landed her first job at the number one television market’s premier 24/7 news station—NY1—where she assisted with field production. In 2018, she was hired as a general assignment reporter for Bronxnet Television. There, she produced hyper local news stories and profile pieces; among them an interview package profiling Dr. Yusef Salaam of the Exonerated Five. Dorissa is now a lifestyle and breaking news reporter at KMBC 9 News in Kansas City, Missouri. Along with her wealth of television experience, she is also a content creator, she has garnered nearly 150K followers on the popular social media platform TikTok by posting affirmations, daily advice and positive messages. Dorissa has also moderated forums for The Bronx Borough President, and is a public speaker. Along with her wealth of speaking experience, Dorissa is also a proud member of NABJ. 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

This TEDx talk explores the unconventional brilliance of chess hustlers and the invaluable life lessons they offer. Through encounters with street chess legends in Chicago, Amsterdam, Zurich and New York, I've discovered that mastery isn’t just about structured learning—it’s about embracing unpredictability, intuition, and raw experience. Chess hustlers thrive on confidence, adaptability, and creativity, challenging the rigid conventions of formal play. Beyond the board, these lessons apply to life, urging us to seek wisdom in unexpected places and step outside our comfort zones. This talk is a reminder that sometimes, the greatest insights come from the most unassuming teachers. Yuvanshu Agarwal, known as Yuvi to friends and family, is a nationally ranked chess player with nearly 15 years of competitive experience. He has represented the Carnegie Mellon Chess Team in collegiate tournaments and enjoys teaching chess to children at his local library in his free time. Beyond chess, Yuvi is passionate about salsa dancing, riding motorcycles with friends, and improving his bouldering skills. 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

Empowering entrepreneurs! Kamakshi Aggarwal shares her inspiring journey of pursuing entrepreneurship and career goals, defying conventions and embracing the 'Go Against the Flow' mindset. In her talk, she reveals how taking bold steps and challenging norms can lead to success. A must-watch for anyone looking to break barriers and achieve their dreams. "As a passionate entrepreneur and social worker with a strong financial background, I'm driven to bring about transformative change in my community. With unwavering ambition and a willingness to speak my mind, I'm not afraid to challenge the status quo and push boundaries. My creative spirit, fitness enthusiasm, and belief in karma guide me in cultivating innovative solutions, fostering meaningful connections, and spreading positivity wherever I go." 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

Inspiring millions! Aman Anand Singh, a renowned motivational speaker, made history with his groundbreaking TED Talk on 'Go Against the Flow'. His thought-provoking ideas on embracing excellence and defying conventions have motivated countless individuals to reach their full potential. Watch his TED Talk and get inspired to unlock your true potential. Aman Anand Singh sees the internet as a mirror of modern reputation. As the founder of Arise Point, he advises CXOs, founders, and large businesses on how to shape that reflection—building strategic visibility, digital trust, and brand value in a reputation-first world. 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

Reflecting on a powerful moment! Nidhi Malik's TED Talk on overcoming negative thoughts and embracing the mantra 'Go Against the Flow' continues to inspire. As a renowned astrologer, she's transformed her life's challenges into motivation for others, especially youngsters. Her talk remains a must-watch for anyone seeking to break free from negativity and unlock their true potential. Nidhi Malik never chose the path of Vedic spirituality—it chose her. After 28 years of leading top global brands, life led her to a journey she never planned but one that now defines her purpose. For nearly a decade, she has been practicing astrology not as a business, but as a calling—stripping away fear, challenging exaggerated remedies, and bringing back the lost truth of this ancient science. Through Antar Nidhi and Honest Talk, No Bakwaas, she guides people toward the right kriyaman karma, helps them rediscover the happiness within, and restores faith in vedic as it was always meant to be—pure, empowering, and deeply connected to the universe. 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

Aditya shares his journey of working on an ambitious youth-led project to build a children's museum, highlighting how the success of their diverse team stemmed not only from varied ages and backgrounds, but from cognitive diversity—the different ways people think and solve problems. Through examples of creative problem-solving, collaboration, and innovation, he illustrates how blending analytical, creative, and practical thinking styles enabled the group to navigate challenges like funding and planning. Aditya urges the audience to value and seek out people who think differently, as this "invisible diversity" can unlock greater innovation and community impact. He closes by encouraging students to explore their passions, collaborate across perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to the world. Aditya Dyta is a Senior at Olentangy Liberty High School. His interests lie in the interplay of the gut microbiome, nutrition, behavioral economics, and wellness. He researches the efficacy of probiotics as interventional treatments for disease at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He hopes to become a leader in the medical community advocating for physician wellness and quality of care while leveraging AI to innovate. Aditya is a captain for OLHS’s science Olympiad team, and an Officer of the Powell Youth Council. His interests in public health lead have lead him to formulate public health campaigns in Nigeria, and help send STEM kits to underprivileged schools around the world. Through his various involvements, he is passionate about empathetic understanding, mindset, and innovative thinking for a productive community. He enjoys golfing, singing Italian songs, and biking. 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