The Power and the Price of Speaking Up | Kena Shree | TEDxKIS Noida Youth
In this moving TEDx talk, Kena Shree, writer, storyteller, shares her personal story of finding her voice in a world that often punishes truth-tellers. Her storytelling videos have resonated with people worldwide, gathering over 25 million views. Yet, her viral article about consent during Holi didn't bring praise—it led to hate, threats, and abuse. Through honest and lyrical self-reflection, Kena explores the two sides of expression: its ability to heal and hurt, to liberate and to endanger. She demonstrates that courage isn't just about speaking up—it's about continuing to speak even when others attack your voice. This talk speaks to anyone who has felt silenced, shamed, or scared, and to those learning to stand firm despite it all. Kena's storytelling videos have amassed over 25 million views across YouTube and Instagram. She has co-authored four anthologies and is currently working on her debut novel. A skilled moderator, Kena has hosted sessions with prominent figures such as Dr. Shashi Tharoor, Gulzar, Javed Akhtar, and Shabana Azmi, and co-curated Asia's first Feminist Poetry Festival with She The People. Her impressive accolades include SHRM Top 50 HR, FICCI FLO Outstanding Corporate Director, NHRD People Excellence Award, and PeopleMatters' 100 Influential Power Women. A TOI Write India winner and four-time TEDx speaker, Kena co-founded the Manrav Foundation in 2013 to support abandoned and destitute elderly citizens. 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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