She didn’t follow a path—she built one. Shiji Sunil, a trailblazer in technology and visual storytelling, began her journey with no formal background in tech or media. In 2018, she established the first technology studio in her country—an ambitious leap into the unknown that would eventually make her a powerhouse in the VFX industry. By 23, she became the Center Head of a leading company, and over the years, her work earned her titles like “Extraordinaire in VFX,” “Change Maker of the Year,” and one of the “25 Women to Follow.”But this story isn’t just about milestones—it’s about epochs, the turning points that redefine us. Her most pivotal moment came not in a boardroom, but during a personal crisis: her father’s health began to deteriorate, and suddenly the world she knew shifted. The loneliness of that time, the absence of support, and the realization that she had to rely solely on herself shaped her in ways no title ever could.In this deeply moving and thought-provoking talk, Shiji dives into the power of resilience, the illusion of overnight success, and the cognitive biases—confirmation, anchoring, status quo, and overconfidence—that silently shape our decisions. She shares how the fusion of technology and storytelling isn’t about choosing one over the other, but mastering both in harmony.With brutal honesty and grounded wisdom, she speaks to anyone caught between imagination and action. Her message is simple yet powerful: Start small, but start. Break your dreams into steps, push through fear, and trust the process—even when it’s uncertain.This isn’t just a talk. It’s a reflection, a wake-up call, and an invitation to capture your kairos—and reshape your story, one decision at a time. Shiji Sunil is a visionary leader shaping AVGC, where creativity meets technology. With 22 years in Animation, VFX, and Virtual Production, she has influenced films, gaming, and immersive media. As the COO of MR Creatives Media, she doesn’t just follow trends, she sets them. A recipient of the Global Women Leadership Award (Dubai, 2023), she continues to push boundaries and drive digital transformation. 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