In this talk, Matej Styk explores how taking the first step- no matter how small- can lead to meaningful change in communities, education, and global conversations. Drawing on his experiences in youth diplomacy, education reform, and organising national initiatives, he illustrates how initiative is less about waiting for permission and more about acting on what you believe in. Matej Styk is the Secretary-General of the Bratislava Model United Nations (MUN) for 2023 and 2024, leading a team of 30 and raising €30,000 for the event. He founded the MUN Association of Slovakia and is working on nationwide workshops to promote MUNs in secondary schools. As a European Parliament Youth Ambassador, UNICEF Slovakia Youth Ambassador, and TEDxGymnázium Jura Hronca co-organizer, he’s deeply involved in youth advocacy and event organizing.With research on Slovak perceptions of peace settlements in the Ukraine war, Styk also serves as the Head of the Curricular Section at the Student Council of Secondary Schools of Slovakia, pushing for academic reforms. His talk, "The Importance of Initiative," will explore how personal values and passions can inspire impactful change through proactive action. 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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