In this TEDx talk, Ume Habiba explores the power of authenticity in today’s evolving job landscape. Drawing from her experiences as a first-generation college graduate and a woman in tech, she shares insights on navigating male-dominated industries while staying true to oneself. Ume emphasizes that embracing one’s unique identity and values can be a significant asset, leading to more meaningful and fulfilling career paths. Her talk serves as an inspiring guide for anyone looking to align their personal authenticity with professional success in the modern workforce. Ume is an incoming Software Engineer at Microsoft in New York City and a recent graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, with a degree in Information and Computer Sciences. She began her tech journey in 2017 by launching the first Girls Who Code club at her high school.Throughout her path, Ume has shared the highs and lows of being a woman in tech—from imposter syndrome to pushing back against stereotypes—using social media to inspire others. A passionate fashion lover, she also challenges norms by expressing herself through style in the corporate tech world. Ume is driven to be the representation she once needed and to help shape a more inclusive future in tech. 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 compelling talk, Dr. Richard Togman explores how small and medium-sized towns can harness their inherent strengths to foster vibrant, resilient communities. He emphasizes that by intentionally designing for community—through inclusive public spaces, collaborative initiatives, and shared resources—these towns can create environments where individuals feel connected and empowered. Dr. Togman illustrates how such community-focused design not only enhances quality of life but also serves as a strategic advantage in attracting and retaining residents, businesses, and investments. Dr. Richard Togman is the CEO of the Thunder Bay Public Library. He also currently acts as Chair of the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce Policy and Advocacy Committee and sits on the Board of the Lakehead Social Planning Council.Previous to his role at the Library, Richard launched real estate start-up 'Rent Panda'. As Co-Founder and CEO, Rent Panda scaled from a 1 person Thunder Bay business to operating in every major city in Ontario within 5 years. Richard also holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of British Columbia and published a book with the world's top academic publisher, Oxford University Press. His book 'Nationalizing Sex' looks at how governments have tried to control and shape demographic growth and decline, why most government efforts fail and what we can do to shape our future. 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

Dima Al-Rawashed believes that childhood memories, like paper boats, carry deep significance. She invites us to reflect on the wealth of potential surrounding us and how we must harness it to ensure a brighter future Dima Al-Rawashed believes that childhood memories, like paper boats, carry deep significance. She invites us to reflect on the wealth of potential surrounding us and how we must harness it to ensure a brighter future. 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

Arafa Al-Hammadi believes that diversity is not just about differences in opinions or personalities but is the foundation of uniqueness and the strength that drives societies toward growth and progress. She encourages everyone to explore how diversity can be a gateway to positive change Arafa Al-Hammadi believes that diversity is not just about differences in opinions or personalities but is the foundation of uniqueness and the strength that drives societies toward growth and progress. She encourages everyone to explore how diversity can be a gateway to positive 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

Eman Alobaide believes that true change begins with a good seed that we plant, nurture, and watch bloom. She encourages everyone not to wait for change but to be the change they wish to see Eman Alobaide believes that true change begins with a good seed that we plant, nurture, and watch bloom. She encourages everyone not to wait for change but to be the change they wish to see 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

Daniela Strango believes that true innovation happens when we stop viewing fear as an enemy and use it as fuel for creativity. Through her experiences across three continents, she has realized that innovation is about self-worth and our power to create change. Daniela Strango believes that true innovation happens when we stop viewing fear as an enemy and use it as fuel for creativity. Through her experiences across three continents, she has realized that innovation is about self-worth and our power to create 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