Jae Lange, a passionate advocate and social worker, addresses the issue of homelessness through their lived experiences and community work. They discuss a few simple acts we can do to respect the autonomy and dignity of people experiencing homelessness -- reminding us that kindness costs nothing but means everything. Jae Lange is a passionate advocate and social worker dedicated to addressing homelessness and supporting marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQ+ youth and families. Drawing from their own experiences with housing instability between the ages of 19 and 22, Jae has committed their career to empowering others and improving systems of care. Jae is currently pursuing a degree in Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University, where they are also recognized for their advocacy and community work. They serve as a direct service specialist at Marsha and Marian’s Neighbors, a program supporting young adults who are pregnant, parenting, and/or LGBTQ+, providing holistic care and promoting autonomy. Jae emphasizes listening to and uplifting individuals to help them navigate challenges and build stability. 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

Tom Illmensee, a musician and coach, reveals what hundreds of live jam sessions have taught him about collaboration, creativity, and human connection. With humor and insight, he offers a simple yet powerful formula for music and life: be cool, listen, and have courage. Tom Illmensee is cofounder of Orbital Music Park, an inclusive creative space for music-making in Richmond, Virginia. As a musician for more than 30 years, Tom has performed at venues in the US and Europe, and has hosted hundreds of jam sessions and workshops from funk to blues to singing meditation. Before starting OMP in 2017, Tom led product design and user experience research teams at software companies. At VCU he earned a bachelor’s degree in history (2000) and an interdisciplinary master’s degree (2007). Tom is a practicing stoic and runs every day. 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 powerful talk, journalist and Mediapreneur Saurabh Shukla shares his journey through the complex world of investigative and political reporting. Drawing from real-world experiences, he reflects on how ethical journalism can challenge power, shape narratives, and give voice to the unheard. At a time when truth is often contested, his insights remind us why journalism matters more than ever. Saurabh Shukla the co- founder of “The Red Mike” is an accomplished journalist and Mediapreneur who has been at the forefront of investigative and political reporting.His commitment to ethical journalism,sharp political insights and reporting of sensitive social issues makes him an important figure in journalism. At TEDxGITAM Hyderabad, he joins us to explore the power of journalism in bringing narratives to the world. 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

Atika Ahmed Farooqi takes us behind the headlines to explore how journalism shapes the world we live in. With stories from the field and insights from a changing media landscape, she reveals how storytelling is not just about information—but influence, identity, and impact. This talk is a journey through the craft of telling truths that matter. Atikqa Ahmed Farooqi a dynamic journalist and media professional, has been instrumental in shaping narratives and driving impactful storytelling. With a career dedicated to uncovering truth and engaging audiences, she has contributed significantly to the evolving landscape of journalism and media. Her expertise spans investigative reporting, content creation, and thought leadership in the industry.At TEDxGITAM Hyderabad, she joins us to share her insights on media, storytelling, and the power of narratives in shaping public perception. 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

NOTE FROM TED: Do not look to this talk for health advice. This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of EFT, emotions, and healing. Statements in this talk have been challenged by scientists working in this field. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfIn this honest talk, Dominika Kalinowska (BSc, MSc, DHP Acc. Hyp.) - psychologist, hypnotherapist, and EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) practitioner - explores how ignored emotions can show up in the body as psychosomatic symptoms. She shares her own experience with anxiety and stress, and why processing emotions is key to healing. Dominika also offers simple, practical tools you can use right now—using your body, breath, hands, and mind—to manage your emotions and reconnect with yourself. Dominika Kalinowska is a psychologist, hypnotherapist, wellbeing speaker, and EFT practitioner with years of experience in mental health. As founder of Relief Therapies, she helps individuals overcome anxiety, release emotional baggage, and process emotions worldwide. She is also the author of 365 Reflections Journal, available on Amazon.She leads workshops, speaks at events, and creates mental health content for her YouTube channel, with over 110,000 views. At Cranfield University, she manages nearly 100 student ambassadors, using psychology to enhance marketing and engagement. Her work earned her a nomination for the 2025 Anglia Ruskin Alumni Rising Star Award. 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

NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and interpretation of repressed emotions and chronic conditions which warrants further scientific investigation. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdfFew realize that many of us harbor within us very powerful emotions that we are completely unaware of. And that those powerful but hidden emotions persist and silently affect our health more than the emotions that we do feel. Their impact on our health is only now coming to light, challenging traditional beliefs about the mind/body connection. This new understanding opens the door to consideration of new pathways that can be of value in the treatment and healing of many chronic medical conditions. Dr. Samuel Mann is a physician, researcher, and author. He specializes in the management of hypertension at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical College, where he is a Professor of Clinical Medicine. In his research and clinical practice he has focused on the optimization of pharmacologic treatment of hypertension, while also pioneering a new understanding of the mind/body connection that brings attention to the unrecognized role of repressed emotions.Dr. Mann has published numerous papers in leading medicine, hypertension and psychology journals, and numerous book chapters. His most recent book, Hidden Within Us; a Radical New Understanding of the Mind-Body Connection, focuses on the role of repressed emotions as an unrecognized cause or contributor to many common medical conditions. 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