Resilient by Choice, Not by Force | Nayani Dixitt | TEDxUnited University
True strength lies in the power to choose resilience—not because life demands it, but because we embrace it. This is a tribute to those who rise, not out of necessity, but out of unwavering will. A reminder that resilience is not a burden we carry, but a badge we wear with pride.Nayani Dixitt is a versatile actor, performer, and educator. A proud alumna of the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. She is also a trained Kathak dancer and has trained under stalwarts like Naseeruddin Shah, Benjamin Gilani, Raza Murad, and Meeta Vashisht. Her filmography includes acclaimed projects such as Special 26, Queen, Guddu Ki Gun, Siyasat (Amazon Prime), Shadi Mein Zaroor Aana and United Kachche (ZEE5). A seasoned theatre actor, Nayani has performed in productions directed by legends like Padmashree Ramgopal Bajaj and Mushtaq Kak. She has received pageant titles like Miss Kanpur and Miss North India (2000). Nayani is also an accomplished acting coach, having taught at Whistling Woods International, Actor Prepares, and Stella Adler Studio, Mumbai. She has coached Miss World 2017 Manushi Chhillar at Yash Raj Studios. Recently, she concluded her role as acting and public speaking coach for Femina Miss India. 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
More from TED
- 10:24How I faced my scoliosis | Lainey Laughton | TEDxLFHSWhen Lainey Laughton was diagnosed with scoliosis at just three years old, everything changed—braces, surgeries, setbacks, and resilience became her new normal. In her powerful TEDxLFHS talk, Lainey shares how a winding medical journey shaped her outlook on control, strength, and support—and why no one facing challenges should have to feel alone. Royalty Free Intro Music: “See What I Mean” by Beat Market. Lainey is a sophomore and is thrilled to be a first-time speaker for TEDxLFHS 2025! Outside of schoolwork, she plays on the varsity tennis team, dances, and plays the cello in the LFHS orchestra. She also participates in clubs like Math Team and Women in STEM. In her free time, she enjoys crocheting and other crafts. She is also passionate about sharing her story with scoliosis (sideways curvature of the spine). She believes that the lessons she has learned through this experience can help anyone going through unique adversity, and that her story can help others with scoliosis feel less alone in their own journeys. 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
- 6:29What I learned about learning | Carolyn Stach | TEDxLFHSIn this witty and insightful talk, high school senior Carolyn Stach reflects on her experience as a computer science teaching assistant. Blending humor, real classroom moments, and a bit of audience participation, she explores what it really means to support others in their learning and what she’s learned about teaching, empathy, and the art of translating complex ideas for different kinds of learners. Royalty Free Intro Music: “See What I Mean” by Beat Market. Carolyn Stach is a senior at LFHS, and she is thrilled to be back for a second year at TEDxLFHS! At the high school, she's involved in a wide range of activities, including Women in STEM, Model UN, Math Team, Scholastic Bowl, and Stitch Club. Outside of school, Carolyn spends her free time with friends, making art, playing the guitar, reading, and making Spotify playlists! For TEDxLFHS, she hopes you're ready for a fun, interactive experience that follows her time as a student TA. 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