In the digital age, we are more connected than ever, yet we often feel more isolated. She explores the paradox of technological connectivity and human disconnection, focusing on virtual reality, digital tools, and their impact on our perception of relationships. With a balanced perspective, she examines both the opportunities and challenges these technologies bring, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and mindful use of technology to enhance—not replace—our real human connections. Chrysoula (Chryssa) Lazou holds degrees in English, Distance Education, and Immersive Technologies. A researcher at AETMA Lab, D.U.Th., she is pursuing a PhD on technology-enhanced learning for digital and media literacy. Her work explores AR/VR/xR and AI in education. She is an IVLP alumna, Vice President of the International Association for Blended Learning, and Co-Chair of the VR/AR Association – Universities & Colleges Committee. She has led media literacy projects in Southeastern Europe and has received multiple awards, including the UNESCO Global MIL Alliance Award (2nd Prize, 2022) and the Governor General’s Gold Academic Award (2019/2020). 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

Efstathios Gavriilidis takes us on a journey into the world of mycelium, an amazing natural material with the potential to transform architecture and production. Through his personal experience and research, he reveals how mycelium can be used to create sustainable, ecological, and even edible structures. His speech is a challenge to redefine our relationship with nature and seek innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. Efstathios Gavriilidis, born in Ptolemaida Greece, studied Architecture at Democritus University of Thrace, Greece. Guided by the concept of Homo Universalis, he explored various disciplines through workshops and seminars in Greece and abroad, focusing on natural building, traditional techniques, materiality, technology, and art. A pivotal architectural journey in 2022 deepened his interest in construction innovation. He completed his studies in May 2024 with a thesis on biomaterials and mycelium in architecture, which later led to his first scientific publication. He now seeks to apply interdisciplinary approaches to contemporary architectural practice. 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

What’s the biggest barrier to innovation? Fear. And what’s the key to overcoming it? Psychological safety. Drawing from his life experiences from student designer to corporate innovator, innovation expert Leo Chan reveals how creating safe environments unleashes bold ideas, strengthens relationships and drives extraordinary innovation.Learn how to move from fear to flourishing—and why YOU hold the power to shape the future by fostering psychological safety in every interaction. This talk is your invitation to unlock your innovative potential and change the world.Leo Chan is an innovation expert, keynote speaker, and LEGO®️ SERIOUS PLAY®️ trainer & facilitator on a mission to unleash innovation in everyone. As the Chief Innovation Igniter at Abound Innovation Inc., he has helped organizations— from nonprofits to Fortune 500s—unlock their employees’ full innovative potential. With 55 U.S. patents and 20+ years of experience, he’s taught over 35,000 professionals worldwide. He’s also a LinkedIn Learning Instructor. Leo’s approach to teaching innovation is approachable, practical, fun, playful, and most importantly, impactful. His infectious energy and passion both inspire and equip participants to be empowered to make 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

In this talk, Nikos Charalambides, head of the Greenpeace Greek office, analyzes the urgent need for action against the climate crisis. He reveals the excuses and obstacles that delay the implementation of solutions, while presenting specific proposals for changes in the field of energy, agriculture, nutrition and urban development. All in all, he encourages young people to take initiatives, challenge conventional solutions and create a sustainable future for the planet. Nikos Charalambides studied Physics at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and completed postgraduate studies in Meteorology and Oceanography in Paris and Athens. Active in environmental protection since 1985, he joined Greenpeace in 1992, leading the marine ecology campaign. Since 2002, he has served as General Director of Greenpeace Greece. In recent years, he has focused on Sustainable Development and has authored books and articles on environmental protection, civil society, climate change, energy, and sustainability. 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

Σε αυτή την ομιλία, η Μανουέλλα Εμμανουλοπούλου μοιράζεται την προσωπική της ιστορία για τη μάχη της με την ανορεξία και το δύσκολο ταξίδι προς την ανάκαμψη. Με ειλικρίνεια και ευαισθησία, περιγράφει πώς η διατροφική διαταραχή επηρέασε τη ζωή της, τις προκλήσεις που αντιμετωπίζει και τα βήματα που έκανε για να ανακτήσει τον έλεγχο. Η ομιλία της αποτελεί μια πηγή έμπνευσης και ελπίδας για όσους αγωνίζονται με παρόμοια προβλήματα, ενώ παράλληλα ευαισθητοποιεί το κοινό σχετικά με τις διατροφικές διαταραχές και την ανάγκη για έγκαιρη βοήθεια. Manuella Emmanoulopoulou is a Greek YouTuber and Social Media Creator who launched her channel in 2011. Manuella is an experienced Social Media Specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the social media and marketing industry. With a background in Economics and International Business from the University of Strathclyde, she has built a strong connection with her audience through her engaging videos. Known for her authenticity, Manuella also uses her platform to raise awareness about Eating Disorders, sharing her personal experience to inspire and encourage others to take action. 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

Como o empreendedorismo pode mudar a sua vida Engenheiro Mecatrônico e Técnico de Eletricidade com mais de 12 anos de experiência em manutenção e operação de sistemas elétricos em pipeline, além de ser fundador de uma empresa líder em Moçambique no setor de eletricidade e automação residencial e industrial. Possuo uma sólida formação técnica e acadêmica, com experiência em projetos desafiadores e liderança de equipes. Meu objetivo é continuar a crescer profissionalmente, compartilhando meu conhecimento de forma acessível e clara, e assumir cargos de liderança em multinacionais ou dentro do setor de pipelines em Moçambique e Zimbábue. 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