What if the key to being a better teacher starts with growing as a person? In this heartfelt talk, Elizabeth Maarman shares how personal growth, through resilience, reflection, and continuous learning, transformed her journey in education. When teachers evolve, students benefit, and the classroom becomes a place where everyone can thrive. Elizabeth Maarman is a proud teacher at The American School of Kuwait. Born and raised on a farm in South Africa during Apartheid, she is the daughter of farm laborers. Life brought many challenges, but even as a young girl, she dared to dream. She remembers standing in wide open fields, watching planes fly overhead, and wondering what it would be like to see the world beyond her small corner of it.That dream became reality through education. Becoming a teacher opened the door to the world—both literally and figuratively. Teaching abroad has allowed her to explore new cultures, connect with incredible students, and advocate for equity in education.Elizabeth is known for being honest, diplomatic, and patient. She loves to laugh—and likes to think her wit keeps things interesting in and out of the classroom. She also enjoys public speaking, especially when sharing stories, sparking change, or inspiring others. Education transformed her life—and that belief guides all she does. 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
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- 8:43Languages and Our Identity | Zenica Lin Lei Yee Mon | TEDxInternationalSchoolofMyanmarZenica’s talk will explore the rich linguistic diversity of Myanmar, examining how language serves as both a cultural identity and a bridge between communities. She will explore the distinct ways in which various ethnic groups communicate, highlighting the historical influences that have shaped Myanmar’s languages over time. From ancient scripts to modern dialects, she will uncover the evolution of linguistic traditions, illustrating how language reflects the country’s dynamic history and social transformations. Zenica will shed light on the intricacies of multilingualism in Myanmar and its significance in shaping national and regional identities. Ms. Zenica is a passionate student at the International School of Myanmar, with a love for reading, debating, and public speaking. From the moment she discovered the world of debates and speeches, she was captivated by the art of communication. Driven by a desire for continuous improvement, Zenica is committed to refining her skills and seeking new opportunities to excel. Her dedication and enthusiasm fuel her determination to grow and make a lasting impact in the field of debating and public speaking. 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
- 8:04Selfishness is Selfless | Mila Ziller | TEDxNibras Intl School YouthIn this thought-provoking TEDxYouth talk, Mila challenges the common belief that selfishness is inherently negative. With maturity and insight, they explore how setting boundaries, prioritizing mental health, and choosing self-care can actually lead to stronger relationships, greater resilience, and a more authentic life. This powerful perspective invites us to rethink what it truly means to take care of ourselves—and why that might be the most generous thing we can do. Mila Ziller is a 15-year-old girl with a multifaceted passion for music, performing arts, and leadership. As the Inclusion Ambassador on her school’s student council, she dedicates her time to fostering inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and supported. Her commitment to empathy, equality, and connection reflects her belief that true leadership begins with uplifting others. A dynamic and creative individual, she thrives on opportunities to inspire meaningful change and build strong communities. Beyond leadership, Mila Ziller has an unwavering curiosity about the human mind, which fuels her love for psychology and her aspiration to pursue dual careers as a psychiatrist and a general surgeon. This unique ambition is driven by her desire to understand and heal—treating not just the body but the mind, to create a more holistic approach to well-being. 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
