The talk is about Black speculative storytelling as a transformative method of temporal and epistemological intervention, one that challenges linear time, centres erased narratives, and generates radically imaginative futures rooted in Black lived experiences. Chris Wilson, a cultural futurist, strategist and guide whose work dances at the intersection of Black imagination, foresight, creativity and design justice. His practice is shaped by ancestral wisdom, radical possibility, and a commitment to futures where Black folks are not only seen but centred. Their TEDx talk will explore how Black speculative storytelling functions as a temporal and epistemological portal, where time folds, ancestral memory breathes, and Black imagination reclaims erased narratives to craft futures sculpted in joy, complexity, creativity and collective empowerment. 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

The talk is about how the subtle stories we live out about gender still uphold patriarchal patterns in our daily lives, and how reimagining these stories can free us to explore possibilities beyond the limitations of gendered ways of living. Mursal Ashrafi is an engineer, researcher, and advocate for gender equity whose work examines how inherited gender narratives shape the lives and possibilities of women, particularly within diaspora communities. Her TEDx talk draws from her research with Hazara Afghan women in Canada to reveal how reimagining the stories we live by can disrupt patriarchal patterns and expand the horizons of what is possible beyond gendered constraints. 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

In a world driven by teams and startups, what does it take to build something great on your own? This talk dives into the journey of solopreneurship—how software developers can escape the 9-to-5 grind, build impactful products solo, and take calculated risks with confidence. It’s a guide to turning passion into product and isolation into independence. Manu Arora is an entrepreneur, software developer, and UI/UX expert redefining modern web development. As the founder of Aceternity, he focuses on open-source solutions, making cutting-edge design and development tools accessible to all. ? Founder of Aceternity, a pioneering UI/UX platform. ? Advocate for open-source software and community-driven innovation. ? Influential developer shaping the future of web design. At TEDxNIT Hamirpur, he will share insights on the evolution of UI/UX, the role of open-source technology, and the future of web development. 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

Asha Bhat stood at a crossroads many face, pursuing a demanding career in engineering while nurturing a deep love for music. What seemed like two opposing worlds never clashed for her. Instead, music became her anchor, bringing balance and clarity to the precision of engineering. In this inspiring talk, Asha reveals how what started as a simple hobby blossomed into a calling that complements rather than competes with her technical career. She challenges the idea that passion must be sacrificed for profession, showing how embracing both logic and creativity can create a richer, fuller life. Her story is a testament to the power of harmony, within oneself and between seemingly different dreams.Copyright- Munjaane Manjalli (2009) for clip (8:04) , Kehne Hi Kya (1994) for clip (10:24) Asha Bhat is a passionate singer and engineer who discovered her musical talent at the age of three. Trained in classical music for over 15 years, she later explored light and western music, which helped shape her versatility. Her journey into the Indian film industry began with Zee Kannada Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, where she gained recognition and collaborated with talented artists. While music remains her greatest passion, she chose to balance it with engineering to ensure it remains a source of joy rather than stress. Currently in her final year of engineering, Asha is set to work as an engineer while continuing her musical journey with unwavering dedication 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

What happens when your dream job doesn’t come, do you wait, or build your own path? From classmates to co-founders, three IUJ graduates share their rollercoaster startup journey in Japan, showing that failure, persistence, and friendship can lead to unexpected success. This is a story about risk, resilience, and rewriting your future. Pramodhya Dissanayake is a dynamic and forward-thinking entrepreneur with a passion for challenging the status quo. With a strong background in international management and business strategy, he combines academic excellence with practical experience.He earned his Bachelor's degree in International Business Management from the University of Plymouth, UK, and went on to complete his MBA at the International University of Japan (IUJ), where he was honored as the Valedictorian of his graduating class. Additionally, Pramodhya is a proud member of the Beta Gamma Sigma International Honor Society, as well as has hold key positions in student communities.As a marketing and strategic management specialist, Pramodhya has provided business consultancy services to a wide range of multinational corporations both in Sri Lanka and Japan. Currently, Pramodhya serves as the Head of Marketing and Strategy at NIMI International, a company he co-founded with a group of like-minded entrepreneurs.Zunita Ramli is the founder of Tokyo Organic, a premium skincare brand made in Japan that champions natural, vegan, and Muslim-friendly formulations. Originally from Malaysia and now based in Japan, she brings a cross-cultural perspective to ethical beauty, blending Japanese craftsmanship with global inclusivity.Zunita holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration and has over a decade of experience in branding, marketing, and international business. Her passion lies in building purpose-driven brands that empower women, support sustainability, and redefine beauty standards.In 2022, she was named one of the 10 ASEAN Fantastic Women Who Are Following Their Dreams in Japan, in recognition of her inspiring entrepreneurial journey. She is currently leading the expansion of Tokyo Organic into global markets, while advocating for inclusive, conscious business as a force for social good.Yuca is a social entrepreneur and product designer who believes that entrepreneurs with wisdom and courage are the ones who can solve various social problems in the current global situation.After working as a product designer for a cosmetics company in Tokyo, she joined the JICA volunteer program as a design expert, questioning the unequal business model of mass production led by developed countries. From that moment, she started her career contributing to international cooperation by utilizing her knowledge and working experience. Currently, she is majoring in International Social Entrepreneurship Program at International University of Japan.While seeking ethical product development as a social entrepreneur, she is also working to improve issues related to education around the world as a fellow and alumni of Teach for Japan, based on her experience working at a university in the Philippines as a JICA volunteer. 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

“You failed.” Two simple words nearly ended Toni’s life, but instead, they became the beginning of healing. In this moving talk, she shares how faith, human connection, and quiet courage turned her darkest moment into a journey of growth and purpose. Antoinette Baltazar is an entrepreneur with experience in food startups, real estate development, and international tech collaborations. She started her career with Ayala Land Malls, Inc., working on key real estate projects, including some of the country’s most iconic malls. After three years in real estate, Antoinette shifted to IT and innovation, leading cross-border tech projects to bring innovative solutions to the Philippines. Simultaneously, she also launched a food startup, growing it from the ground up. Now an MBA candidate at the International University of Japan, Antoinette focuses on IT and sustainability, with research on how entrepreneurs and SMEs can create sustainable cities in the Philippines. Her work and passions are shaped by her experiences overcoming failure and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. 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