What if classrooms could nurture not just knowledge, but wisdom? In this powerful talk, Dr. Kavita Sharma outlines five key transformations that education must undergo from content to competencies, personalization to real-world learning. It's a bold vision for a future where schools become ecosystems of innovation and purpose. Dr. Kavita Sharma is an experienced and passionate educator with over 30 years in teaching and school leadership. She started her career after completing a B.Sc. + B.Ed. at the Regional Institute of Education, Mysore, and holds Master’s degrees in Zoology and Education, as well as a Ph.D. in Education. She has earned multiple awards, including the "Progressive Principal of India 2017" and "Principal of the Year" by Times of India.Dr. Sharma believes in creating learning environments that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork. She introduced nonviolent communication to help students become compassionate leaders. Known for her dedication and innovative teaching methods, Dr. Sharma is committed to helping students grow and succeed. Inspired by the wisdom of Kabir, she lives by the motto: "Awake, arise, and stop not till thy goal is achieved." 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

This talk centers on the transformative power of courage and commitment in overcoming fear and achieving personal growth. Opening with a vulnerable confession about the fear of swimming, the speaker uses the inspiring story of surfer Bethany Hamilton, who returned to the sport after losing her arm in a shark attack, to show that courage is not the absence of fear but the ability to act in spite of it. Citing figures like Nelson Mandela and drawing on research about fear, regret, and resilience, the speaker encourages the audience to step outside their comfort zones, pursue their goals with clarity, practice self-compassion, seek supportive mentors, and learn from setbacks. The talk ends with a powerful challenge: take just one brave step toward your dreams or fears, because one step can change everything. Cyris Joseph Jones was born and raised in Prentiss, a small town in Central Mississippi. The ninth of eleven children, Cyris credits his parents, Madis and Willie Jones, for instilling in him the values of had an illustrious career spanning over three decades. He started with a major logistics company while attending college, advancing into management, and later spent 20 years in various upper management roles at a leading automotive manufacturing firm in Central Mississippi. After retiring from corporate America in 2023 to care for his mother, Cyris turned his focus to his true passion - motivating others, inspiring change, and helping people grow personally and professionally. Cyris has been happily married to his wife, Terri Jones, for 26 years. Together, they have two children, Christian and Torri, who continue to be a source of pride and inspiration in his life. 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