Cancer has traditionally been treated based on where it originates in the body, with different therapies for different types. But now, researchers are shifting toward a more personalized approach, focusing on the genetic makeup of tumors. This shift holds great promise, but it can be taken even further. By uncovering the complex networks of genetic interactions within cancer cells, we can identify new vulnerabilities and improve how we target them. Tumors are complex and vary from patient to patient, which means there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment. However, by understanding the genetic pathways that cancer cells rely on to survive and grow, we can gain a clearer picture of how to stop them. As we refine this understanding, we’ll be able to create more precise and effective therapies, offering new hope for even the most aggressive cancers. By continuing to explore these genetic networks, we’re moving closer to transforming cancer treatment—and perhaps even finding a cure. Dr. Franco J. Vizeacoumar (PhD) is a senior scientist at Saskatchewan Cancer Agency and associate professor of oncology at the University of Saskatchewan. He earned his PhD in cell biology from the University of Alberta and completed postdoctoral training at the University of Toronto. His research focuses on identifying novel cancer drug targets, using genetic principles such as synthetic lethality. His broader body of work spans genome-wide unbiased screens, machine learning approaches, drug repurposing platforms and mechanistic studies to identify these targets. Vizeacoumar has contributed extensively to the academic community by co-editing two textbooks, publishing over 70 peer-reviewed articles, and serving on numerous national grant review panels and the editorial boards of multiple journals. His research is supported by leading funding agencies, including CIHR, NSERC, CRS, SCA, SHRF, CFI, TFRI, and the Be Like Bruce organization. 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

AI is everywhere, even when you discount the hype. It is hidden behind nice user interfaces when taking pictures with your phone, it is running predictions to shape the flow of supply chains, it is writing books and it is helping us drive. Taken all together, his has a huge real-life impact on all of our lives, and requires a high level of quality. But many types of AI work fundamentally different from classically “programmed” systems - so what does “Quality” even mean when talking about AI? And how do we control it? Video produced by Apehouse (www.apehouse.at). Thomas Steirer is a quality and test automation architect from Vienna, Austria, with over 20 years of experience. He’s supporting Nagarro’s global senior management as CTO, and is also leading their Test Automation Practice. In his work at Nagarro, he supports clients in the introduction and optimization of quality engineering, teaches at universities and is a passionate serial speaker at conferences. He is also co-author of the book “Test Automation Fundamentals”, currently in its third edition, available in German and English. In his spare time, he is a tech junkie, tinkerer, and enthusiastic Gameboy musician. 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

If I could compare the effects of social media on our society and our behaviour, I’d compare it to a pacifier. This talk describes how social media ‘soothes’ us through addiction and its averse effects on our biology. Vivienne is a Year 11 student with an interest in economics. 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 her talk Neekita describes how students transformed their rundown school into a green, sustainable space. With the guidance of mentors, they reimagined their school as a "Living School” a place that grows food, uses solar energy, recycles water, and supports nature. They planted a food forest, turning empty land into vibrant gardens with fruits, vegetables, and herbs. They created homes for birds and bees, built ponds, and brought back wildlife. Students also learned to save water by setting up recycling systems and powered their school with solar panels. To keep classrooms cool, they used green roofs, planted trees, and added windows for natural airflow. Through teamwork, they discovered how small actions could make a big difference. This talk teaches us that by thinking creatively and acting together, we can make our schools and communities healthier, greener, and better for everyone. Neekita Hatvalne Mulchandani is an alumnus of Choithram School North Campus, Class of 2013. She is an architect with over five years of experience in design, construction techniques, and sustainable practices. She is currently a Design Architect with BCM Group in Indore, leading design solutions and project coordination. Previously, she worked as a CAD Designer at Molteni C C | DADA in Dubai, creating modular kitchen and wardrobe designs while collaborating with clients. Neekita holds a Master of Engineering Leadership in High- Performance Buildings from UBC Vancouver, specializing in green building practices. Earlier, she served as a Project Architect at MOFA Architects in Hyderabad, where she gained expertise in fire codes for high-rise buildings, MIVAN technology, and construction documentation. Her career is further enriched by her involvement in Laurie Baker’s sustainable design principles and mentoring interns in collaborative environments. 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

Pigeons are generally regarded as a nuisance and annoyance to the daily lives of many. Despite their unfortunately tarnished reputations, it can be argued that birds do not all deserve the blame placed on them. Pigeons in fact might actually be hiding a secret potential that most remain unaware of. From the benefits of their poop to their surprising intelligence, they might actually have the capabilities to be helpful for the future of humanity. By looking at pigeons with a new perspective, the future may seem brighter and filled with optimism. Sky Phisuthikul is a Year 12 student at Wycombe Abbey with a passion for not only STEM but anything interesting that captures her interest from folding origami dragons to baking banana bread. She loves going down rabbit holes of science curiosities and finding answers to the questions that occur to her whenever the moment strikes. With an interest in medicine, which she intends to study at university, she hopes to pursue a career in healthcare. 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

MBTI is one of the most popular personality tests, widely used by individuals and companies. However, does a four-letter word represent you as much as you think it does? The inaccuracies of the MBTI may reflect a deeper issue than you expected. The forced dichotomies and problematic categories cause the MBTI to be inaccurate. However, despite this unreliability, many of us still feel represented by these types. The need to put a false label onto ourselves is not unique to the MBTI; instead, it is mirrored in many aspects of our lives. Cindy is a year 10 student at Wycombe Abbey with interests in sciences and psychology. As an ENFP, she spends a lot of time exploring personality tests like the MBTI and is particularly intrigued by how we are impacted and influenced by them. 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