How Alopecia totalis made Shlok redefine his boundaries Shlok Shirodkar is fueled by an insatiable curiosity that propels him to explore the world through the elegant languages of mathematics and physics. Every equation solved and concept unraveled deepens not only his understanding of the universe but also his self-awareness. His analytical prowess and disciplined approach empower him to navigate complex problems with creativity and determination. Beyond the rigid frameworks of science, Shlok finds beauty in the intricate patterns and paradoxes that emerge from his studies. As he traverses this expansive intellectual landscape, he views his journey as a dynamic puzzle-each new discovery a vital piece in the unfolding mosaic of his identity, a portrait proudly showcased in his TEDx presentation. 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

Zainabou Thiam explores what it truly means to pursue success in a world that tells us to wait. Through the lens of her journey as a young entrepreneur, Zainabou shares how she launched her company, Sunu Body, at just 16 years old — not because she was fully ready but because she was willing to start. Her talk challenges the myth of perfect timing and reveals how waiting often disguises fear. She introduces three mindset shifts that helped her turn an idea into an award-winning business: starting with what you have, embracing failure, and getting out of your way.At its core, Zainabou’s talk is about courage — the kind that doesn’t wait for permission but chooses to begin anyway. Zainabou Thiam explores what it truly means to pursue success in a world that tells us to wait. Through the lens of her journey as a young entrepreneur, Zainabou shares how she launched her company, Sunu Body, at just 16 years old — not because she was fully ready but because she was willing to start. Her talk challenges the myth of perfect timing and reveals how waiting often disguises fear. She introduces three mindset shifts that helped her turn an idea into an award-winning business: starting with what you have, embracing failure, and getting out of your way.At its core, Zainabou’s talk is about courage — the kind that doesn’t wait for permission but chooses to begin anyway. 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

Ed explores how great leaders turn adversity into influence, revealing a pattern among successful executives: embracing challenges as crucibles for growth, developing distinctive leadership styles, and courageously allowing their teams to stumble to strengthen leadership throughout the organization. Through personal metaphors and real leadership stories, Ed offers practical wisdom for executives seeking to build successful careers and enduring leadership legacies. Ed Brzychcy is a consultant, executive coach, and speaker specializing in leadership development, organizational design, and strategic implementations, working with middle-market-sized companies across various industries. He retired from the U.S. Army in 2011as a staff sergeant and infantry squad leader after serving for twelve years, spending three years deployed in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He received his MBA from Babson College in2016, where he now serves as a Visiting Assistant Professor of Practice in Organizational Behavior. He lives in Waltham, MA, and enjoys traveling and flying UAVs. 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

Every time we scroll mindlessly, we shape algorithms hell-bent on hijacking our attention and ensnaring us in a digital labyrinth. In Navigating the Digital Labyrinth, I expose some of these algorithmic traps and equip you with personal, science-backed strategies to break the doom-scroll, reclaim your focus, and shape the life you truly desire. With a vision to redefine how technology and well-being intersect, Alexander Sica is forging innovative paths at Babson College. As a student lead for The Generator—Babson’s interdisciplinary AI lab—he aids in transformative initiatives, including a Build-a-thon that drew over 150 participants. Professionally, he channels this forward-thinking ethos into Genetic Fit Lab—a biotech venture merging wellness, fitness, genetics, and AI to create personalized, data-driven health solutions. Managing six health and fitness studios further enriches his industry experience, refining the operational and leadership skills essential for turning these innovations into reality. By uniting ethical innovation, entrepreneurial action, and human optimization, he offers a compelling model for how technology can catalyze positive change—transforming industries, improving individual lives, and inspiring us to realize our full potential. 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

Think green skills are just for environmentalists or scientists? Think again. The future of work belongs to those who can adapt, innovate, and lead through change. In this surprising and energizing talk, Vitor Ungari reveals how mastering sustainability, creative problem-solving, and systems thinking isn’t just good for the planet, it’s the key to thriving in tomorrow’s economy. Vitor Ungari is a dynamic leader and passionate advocate for sustainability and innovation, focused on empowering changemakers through education, entrepreneurship, and technology. A former professional soccer player turned engineer, he transitioned into social entrepreneurship, co-founding Aurica to deliver cutting-edge sustainability consulting and SaaS solutions that drive impact. Currently pursuing an MBA at Babson College with concentrations in Entrepreneurship and Business Analytics/Machine Learning, he leverages his diverse expertise to tackle global challenges. Vitor’s transformative leadership has scaled initiatives at Enactus Brazil and different organizations, empowering over 3,000 students and positively impacting more than 100,000 lives. His journey showcases the power of adaptability, purpose, and green talent to build a more sustainable and equitable future. 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

Students from Kenmore Jr Sr High share talks about mental health, motivation, stage fright, cancer awareness, and non-traditional school.Speakers include: Ash Stockmeyer, Cheyanne Rider, Anna Ceranski, Kalib Mielcarek, Maxim Campana, Darren Tucker, Madison Wells, Amara Gomez, Hunter Hayes, Hannah Stump, Angelo Vasiliadis, Zoey Matos, and Jaiden Roman Student at Kenmore Jr Sr High School 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