In the UK, the media often scapegoat immigrants for the lack of jobs, opportunities, and access to healthcare. In Iran, Afghan refugees face similar blame. But this narrative serves a deeper purpose: to divert attention from the real cause of economic hardship—capitalism. Governments don’t want people to realize that the system is designed to funnel wealth into the hands of a few, while leaving the majority poorer, more anxious, and increasingly desperate. So, the immigrants are always blamed. Meanwhile, industries continue to pollute the air, drain rivers, and cause floods—all while producing goods that many can no longer afford. All this causes people to move to where they might be able to feed their families. In this TEDx talk, Nasrin Parvas, who was imprisoned and tortured in Iran for eight years for her advocacy of women’s and civil rights, sheds light on the struggles of refugees and what must be done to build a freer, more just world. In the UK, the media often scapegoat immigrants for the lack of jobs, opportunities, and access to healthcare. In Iran, Afghan refugees face similar blame. But this narrative serves a deeper purpose: to divert attention from the real cause of economic hardship—capitalism. Governments don’t want people to realize that the system is designed to funnel wealth into the hands of a few, while leaving the majority poorer, more anxious, and increasingly desperate. So, the immigrants are always blamed. Meanwhile, industries continue to pollute the air, drain rivers, and cause floods—all while producing goods that many can no longer afford. All this causes people to move to where they might be able to feed their families. In this TEDx talk, Nasrin Parvas, who was imprisoned and tortured in Iran for eight years for her advocacy of women’s and civil rights, sheds light on the struggles of refugees and what must be done to build a freer, more just world. 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

Shiv Chordia explores the fascinating relationship between fear and growth in his inspiring talk. With striking clarity and personal reflection, he challenges the belief that fear is something to avoid. Instead, Shiv encourages us to see fear as a compass—a signal guiding us toward areas of untapped potential. Through real-life examples and powerful insights, he highlights how stepping into discomfort can lead to transformation, resilience, and self-discovery. Shiv’s message is clear: our fears don't limit us—they lead us to the extraordinary, if only we dare to face them. Shiv Chordia discovered his passion for tabla at the age of three and has trained for nine years under Guru Shankar Kuchekarji, earning 2nd place in a state-level tabla competition. Currently in Grade 12 at Symbiosis International School, Shiv seamlessly balances academics, music, sports, and fashion, showcasing his passion, discipline, and commitment to excellence. A state-level tennis player, he also thrives in fashion modeling, having walked the ramps in London, Milan, Paris, and Dubai. His dedication was recognized when he was crowned Mr. International in Pune by Vivz Fashion School. 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 this deeply personal TEDx talk, Tejas Khoday, Founder & CEO of FYERS, shares his extraordinary journey from the heartbreak of losing both parents at a young age to becoming the architect of one of India’s most well-known bootstrapped fintech startups. With raw honesty, Tejas opens up about his early struggles and how adversity became the catalyst for his relentless spirit. This inspiring entrepreneurial journey explores the mindset required to bootstrap a startup, and build with conviction, without a safety net. If you're an aspiring startup entrepreneur, curious about the real truth behind bootstrapping, this talk offers 5 powerful lessons from an authentic voice from India's startup ecosystem. Tejas Khoday, CEO and Co-founder of Fyers: In this informative TEDx talk, Tejas Khoday, CEO and co-founder of Fyers, a leading online brokerage firm, demystifies the world of finance and investing for a wider audience. He shares his insights on the importance of financial literacy, the principles of sound investing, and the strategies for building long-term wealth. Tejas discusses the various investment options available, the risks and rewards associated with each, and the importance of making informed financial decisions. His talk empowers individuals to take control of their financial future and navigate the complexities of the investment world with greater confidence. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. 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 his heartfelt talk, Ansh Shrivastava unravels a powerful truth: our greatest superpower might just be empathy. Through a personal story of misunderstanding and realization, Ansh takes us on a journey of self-discovery, where a moment of being judged helped him reflect on how he had judged others. With honesty and emotion, he shares how one experience shifted his perspective and helped him uncover the hidden power of kindness and connection. Ansh reminds us that empathy doesn’t require special skills—just a willing heart—and when we choose to understand over assume, we unlock not only others’ potential, but our own. Ansh Shrivastava, a Grade 4 student at EuroSchool Kharadi, is passionate about public speaking, music, and drama. With a keen interest in science and technology, he has excelled in various competitions earning multiple accolades. Known for his cheerful and positive outlook, Ansh embodies integrity, respect, and compassion, shaping him into a well-rounded individual. His enthusiasm for learning and sharing ideas inspires those around him. Always eager to take on challenges, he continues to grow as a confident young leader, proving that passion and perseverance can make a lasting impact. 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

Vandana Dogra takes us through a powerful and deeply personal journey shaped by adaptability, resilience, and the mindset of always asking, “What’s next?” From being an army kid to a tech leader, from taking a career break to returning stronger, and from running marathons to being crowned Mrs. India Runner-Up, Vandana shares how embracing change led her to unlock her true potential. Her talk is a testament to the power of reinvention, the courage to start again, and the impact of lifting others while you rise. She reminds us that growth begins where comfort ends—and that our next chapter is always waiting to be written. Vandana Dogra is a business leader with expertise in large-scale mission-critical programs, managing cross-functional, global teams. As Head of Technology Practice at Incture Technologies, she delivers digital solutions at scale and leads Diversity & Inclusion initiatives. Crowned Mrs. India Runners-Up 2024, she also serves as State President of Karnataka Defense Forces Council and President of her housing society’s managing committee. Passionate about women empowerment, she drives meaningful change. An army kid, she embraces challenges with adaptability. A long-distance runner and badminton player, Vandana believes in fitness, resilience, and building strong human connections. 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

Haniah Wahb brings to the stage a heartfelt narrative about embracing her uniqueness and turning sensitivity into strength. In her talk, she opens up about being labeled ‘too emotional’ and how that once felt like a burden. Through self-awareness and creative expression, Haniah learned that her empathy was, in fact, her superpower. She highlights the importance of embracing emotions, building self-confidence, and creating space for one’s true self in a world that often demands conformity. Her story encourages us to celebrate who we are—unfiltered, vulnerable, and powerful. Haniah Wahb, a Grade 5 student at EuroSchool Hitech City, is an enthusiastic learner who enjoys discovering new things. A passionate reader, she loves immersing herself in books during her free time and enjoys watching horror movies. She cherishes spending time with her friends, playing games, and creating fun moments. Always striving for excellence, she enjoys challenging herself in academics, working hard to improve her grades with each passing term. Curious, creative, and determined, she embraces learning with passion. 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