Comfort is a silent killer of innovation, holding brands back from bold ideas and meaningful impact. This talk challenges leaders and entrepreneurs to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for creativity, growth, and long-term success. Learn why playing it safe leads to mediocrity while taking risks helps brands be uncopyable and unforgettable. If you want to stand out, it's time to get comfortable being uncomfortable! Andy Starr is an award-winning brand architect with a passion for provoking organizations at the intersection of business, branding, and education. A musician, entrepreneur, and recovering law student, Andy is the co-founder and managing partner of Level C—the world’s new Bauhaus of Brand. He splits his time between the US and Austria.Sabine Friesser is an accomplished executive and C-suite sparring partner. She has steered global B2B and B2C companies for 17+ years. Specializing in strategic brand building and management in highly competitive industries, she is one of few people in the world allowed to pass on her knowledge as a Level C Fellow. She is an Adjunct Professor of Branding and Marketing at multiple EU universities and a trusted counselor across a spectrum of companies, from microenterprises to category heavyweights, realizing revenues in the billions of euros. 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

Those who can navigate multiple languages will be best prepared to thrive in this new world. I understand that having a “global language” or “lingua franca” like English is useful, however, I have realised that our native languages tie us to who we are, our heritage, and our roots. We simply can't risk losing it. This is my story realsining the importance and interplay of language and culture. Soundarya Lahari Keesara is a 17 year old high school student who has grown up experiencing multiple cultures. As a third-culture child and a multilingual, she aims to invite people to practice their native languages in a world where English is becoming the dominant language, paying homage to their roots and heritage. 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

Success is often seen as the opposite of failure, but what if failure is actually the key to achieving greatness? Drawing from her own experiences in academia, law, and leadership, she provides insights on overcoming challenges, embracing setbacks, and turning obstacles into stepping stones toward personal and professional growth. A lecturer in Business Law at British Management University, believes that fear and failure are stepping stones to success. With a strong background in legal research, international projects, and education, she’s built a career on embracing challenges. Markhabo holds a First-Class Honours bachelor’s degree in Commercial Law and a Master’s in International Commercial Law from Westminster International University, She is dedicated to guiding others through their journey to success, helping them turn obstacles into growth opportunities. 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

Nowadays we see children as people who should go to school and play outside. We do not take their opinions seriously enough. However, we should. We should listen to the opinions of children. They are not only the future, but also the present. The decisions adults are making are affecting children’s lives today AND tomorrow. Moreover, the unique vision children have can be of great value to today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. Lars Westra, a 17-year-old children’s rights activist, explains why we must listen to the voices of children. Lars Westra is 17 years old and has been a children’s rights activist since the age of nine. He advocates for the right to a voice, a future and a chance for every child. He not only tries to motivate adults to ensure children’s rights but also encourages children to stand up for their opinions by giving speeches, writing books, making podcasts, and leading projects. For his efforts he won the Dutch National Children’s Prize for peace, freedom and democracy. Additionally, he is the vice-chair of the Dutch NGO coalition on children’s rights. 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

Failure is often seen as something to avoid, yet it holds the power to transform us in ways success never could. This talk explores the unexpected beauty of failure and how it shapes our character, resilience, and growth. Through personal stories and broader reflections, she reveals how embracing our failures allows us to build a stronger, wiser, and more authentic version of ourselves. Her talk is a powerful reminder that failure is not the end—it’s the beginning of something greater. A freshman at British Management University, Robiya Nazir Akhmad moves with purpose—both in water and in life. As a Master of Sport in synchronized swimming, she knows the discipline it takes to succeed. But beyond the pool, she’s an advocate for environmental sustainability, playing a key role at NGO "Suvchi" in organizing impactful seminars on water conservation. Her dedication extends to organizing cultural events and volunteering at the Uzbekistan-Japan Center for Human Development. Passionate about activism and community-building, Robiya is a force for meaningful change. 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