In this insightful talk, Nikhil Chandran challenges the common perception of gaming as mere entertainment or distraction, and instead showcases its potential as a powerful tool for innovation and social good. He highlights how game technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and engines such as Unity and Unreal are being used to solve real-world problems—ranging from immersive industrial training to therapeutic applications in healthcare for ADHD, elderly care, and cancer recovery.Nikhil emphasizes research-backed benefits of gaming, including improved cognitive skills, focus, emotional intelligence, and empathy. He draws on compelling examples such as Minecraft being used for urban planning, Sea Hero Quest aiding dementia research, and emotionally rich indie games like Among Us and Monument Valley.With India home to over 591 million gamers and a strong engineering talent pool, he calls for a shift in how we perceive gaming—as a space for creativity, collaboration, and real impact. His message is clear: gaming is not just play, it is preparation for building a smarter, more empathetic, and innovative world. Nikhil Chandran is a dynamic leader in tech and creative industries, with a decade of experience spanning gaming, film, and emerging technologies. As founder of TILTLABS and TILTEDU, he drives innovation in AR/VR, virtual production, and spatial computing. A recognized expert in AI, the Metaverse, and blockchain, he guides businesses through digital transformation. Through TILTLABS, he creates immersive tech solutions for global clients, while TILTEDU offers hands-on training in game development and real-time storytelling. Nikhil also serves as Vice President of SAIK and Convenor of the Digital Tech Panel at CII, advocating for AVGC-XR and digital growth in India. His work bridges tech and education, shaping the future of immersive experiences. 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
- 8:08Lifelong Learning - A Key to transforming your life and career! | Alok Tewari | TEDxUConnIn an era of AI and rapid change, continuous adaptation is no longer optional—it’s essential. By embracing a growth mindset and integrating AI as a powerful tool, this talk offers actionable strategies to unlock new possibilities in career and life. Through real-world insights and examples, discover how to harness the transformative potential of learning and technology to not only cope with change but to thrive in it—creating a ripple effect of growth and positive impact for yourself and the world around you. Dr. Alok Tewari is an accomplished strategist and leader with expertise in technology, engineering, business management, risk management, and mergers and acquisitions. He is Vice President of Strategy at a leading insurance and engineering firm. He has successfully built and led multicultural, high-performing teams to deliver results and optimize returns. Alok is a Juris Doctor candidate at UConn and holds a Doctorate in Management, a Master’s in Insurance Management, and a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering. As a dedicated lifelong learner with numerous certifications, he has spoken at industry conferences and on podcasts, sharing insights on the transformative impact of technology. Beyond his professional achievements, Alok is deeply committed to community service, having volunteered for over five years with the American Red Cross and contributed to local shelters and the Legal Aid Society. His work drives positive change across industries and communities. 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
- 9:21Barreras Físicas no mentales | Renata Sánchez Díaz | TEDxColegio Merici YouthComo un estudiante vive con discapacidad motriz Ella tiene 16 años y las personas que la inspiran día a día son su familia y sus amigos. Hay cosas que le apasionan, como la escritura y la música, pero sobre todo, su deseo de alzar la voz y darle voz a quienes no pueden. Es por eso que se convirtió en parte de este evento. Aunque tiene solo 16 años, sorprendería lo mucho que ha vivido y aprendido. Por eso, invita a los demás a conocer su historia y a entender lo que la hace la persona que es hoy. 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
- 9:22The Art of Alignment: using your core to create confidence | Vera Milan Gervais | TEDxOshawaIn her talk Vera describes how she hid her true self because of a physical birth anomaly. When this situation was surgically corrected, she had to learn how to walk again. Through this journey she learnt lessons about grit, being true to herself, and confidence. She shares these lessons with us. Vera Milan Gervais challenges traditional concepts of leadership by rethinking how we view confidence, balance, and success. Author of The Wordz We Wear: How to Show Up with Confidence and Create Your Best Life, she explores how language shapes our identity and choices. Vera’s success despite a birth defect helps women reframe limiting narratives, embrace their leadership potential, and create balanced, fulfilling lives. 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
- 7:08How Mediation & Tech Can Save Families From The Courtroom | Gabrielle Hartley | TEDxSan Diego SalonTired of custody battles draining your energy and your wallet? In this eye-opening TEDx talk, attorney, mediator, and family law expert Gabrielle Hartley unveils a game-changing approach to creating stress-free parenting plans and fair custody agreements—without the courtroom chaos. Discover how AI-powered mediation makes co-parenting easier, reduces conflict, and puts parents back in control of their family's future. If you're ready to stop fighting, start parenting, and finally find peace in your custody agreement, this talk is for you. betterparentingplan.com #ChildCustody #CustodyAgreement #ParentingPlan #TEDxSanDiego #CoParenting #StopFighting #DivorceMediation #ParentingSolutions #DivorceWithoutDrama #SharedParenting #CustodyBattle #DivorceHelp #DivorceSupport #BetterParentingPlan #CustodyMatters #MediationWorks #FamilyFirst #AIMediation #TechForGood #LegalTech #FutureOfFamilyLaw #AIForFamilies #VirtualMediation #LegalInnovation #PeacefulParenting #ParentingGoals #PuttingKidsFirst #HealthyCoParenting #BreakupToBreakthrough #ConflictResolution. Gabrielle Hartley is an attorney, mediator, author, and innovator on a mission to transform child custody and co-parenting. With decades of experience in family law, she’s pioneering AI-powered mediation to help parents create fair, conflict-free parenting plans—without the courtroom chaos. Featured in major media, a former court attorney and current online mediator, Gabrielle is the go-to expert for making divorce smoother, custody agreements clearer, and co-parenting easier. Her TEDx talk unveils the future of custody solutions, proving that technology plus mediation equals peace for families. betterparentingplan.com 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
- 10:05The New Fire: Unlocking the Gift of Nuclear Energy | Osama Baig | TEDxOshawaMassive progress was made when humans discovered how to control fire, create fire at will and use it. We are at a new juncture in the history of the world where "nuclear energy" represents "new fire." Instead of being afraid of this new fire, let's focus on all the different ways it can help humanity solve problems and contribute to human progress. Sources quoted in this talk: Source: Cna_Admin, “Your lifetime used fuel would fit in a soda can! Want proof?,” Canadian Nuclear Association, Date: Jun 25, 2019 Website: https://cna.ca/2019/06/25/your-lifetime-used-fuel-would-fit-in-a-soda-can-want-proof/ Martin, “Water and Sanitation - United Nations Sustainable Development,” United Nations Sustainable Development, Oct. 19, 2023. https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/water-and-sanitation/#:~:text=In%202022%2C%202.2%20billion%20people,no%20handwashing%20facility%20at%20all. “Desalination - World Nuclear Association.” 2 March 2024 https://world-nuclear.org/information-library/non-power-nuclear-applications/industry/nuclear-desalination Osama, has a background in nuclear engineering and is a science communicator with over seven years in the nuclear energy sector. He speaks about advanced nuclear technologies at global forums and simplifies nuclear concepts on his YouTube channel, @OsamaBaig. His content includes reactor vlogs, training materials for professionals, and educational videos, making nuclear technology accessible to all. 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
- 6:33Yo soy de... | Neuse River Middle School Students | TEDxYouth@ChavisWayEste poema captura las historias de tres jóvenes sobre cómo es ser inmigrante./ This poem, written and shared by three middle school students, captures the complexities of life as an immigrant youth. Karla Gomez, Stephanie Abigail Muñoz Moyeda, and Zulma Reyes are middle school students who enjoy sports, fashion, and dance. 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
