This thought-provoking talk challenges misconceptions about blindness and disability, offering a fresh perspective on what it truly means to navigate the world without sight. Through personal experiences and engaging storytelling, the speaker explores the myths surrounding blindness—debunking ideas of tragedy, dependence, and superhuman abilities. They highlight how societal attitudes shape perceptions of disability, often leading to exclusion or misplaced admiration. The talk emphasizes the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and recognizing the contributions of disabled individuals. With humor and real-life anecdotes, the speaker shares how blindness didn’t end their life—it simply changed it. From learning new skills to gaining independence, their journey is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. This talk inspires audiences to challenge stereotypes, rethink their interactions with disabled individuals, and work toward a more inclusive society where disability is seen not as a limitation, but as a valid and integral part of life Poonam Vaidya is an HR senior analyst specialising in inclusion and diversity, with a background in content writing and editing for the sector. She holds an MA in English with communication studies from Christ University and a BA in journalism, psychology, and English.Her live experiences of disability have shaped her advocacy, leading to features in BBC mini, documentaries and various podcasts. A writer, traveller, and audiobook enthusiast, she frequently speaks at workplaces and conferences, championing authenticity as a force for meaningful 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

Investieren unter dem Aspekt der Nachhaltigkeit? Wie sinnvoll das ist und was es zu beachten gibt, erklärt uns Professor Hornuf. Lars ist Professor für Finanzwirtschaft und Finanztechnologie an der Technische Universität Dresden, führender Forscher in den Bereichen StartUpFinanzierung, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) und Künstlicher Intelligenz in der Finanzwelt. Zudem beschäftigt er sich mit der Blockchain-Technologie und der Finanzierung von Raumfahrtprojekten. Laut aktuellem WirtschaftsWoche-Ranking gehört er zu den forschungsstärksten Wirtschaftswissenschaftlern im deutschsprachigen Raum.Lars is Professor of Finance and Financial Technology at the Technical University of Dresden and a leading researcher in the fields of start-up financing, ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) and artificial intelligence in the world of finance. He also works on blockchain technology and the financing of space projects. According to the current WirtschaftsWoche ranking, he is one of the most research-intensive economists in the German-speaking 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

The talk argues that AI systems reflect and reinforce existing social inequalities, leading to real-world harm through biased data, stereotypes, structural discrimination, and global injustice. Rather than being a purely technical issue, AI ethics is a deeply philosophical and societal question about the kind of world we want to create. True progress requires diverse perspectives and a collective ethical conversation about justice, inclusion, and responsibility. Ajuna (23) has a background in philosophy and specializes in the ethics of artificial intelligence. She is particularly interested in how AI impacts human rights and social inequality, and in promoting diversity and inclusion in this context. As founder of the Data Ethics Center of Expertise, she helps government organizations use algorithms responsibly through training and research. She has also been chosen as one of the global 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics (2024) and was the first Young Thinker of the Nation for her talent to discuss complex social issues in an inspiring and accessible way. 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

How the excavation of the ancient city of Heraclea Sintica reveals unsuspected secrets from the past? And why archaeology is not only science but a cause with profound cultural and social impact. "Knowing from a young age what you are drawn to and what you want to do is luck. But to follow your calling, you need courage", says Lyudmil Vagalinski. Although history is close to his heart to this day, surprisingly he was not accepted into the History Faculty on his first attempt. He had to go to the mandatory at the time military service for two years to return to "his own" path to archaeology. Prof. Vagalinski is the creator and editor-in-chief of the archaeology journal Archaeologia Bulgarica. He leads large-scale national and international projects, including the excavations of the ancient city of Heraclea Sintica near the village of Rupite, the Roman colony Deultum near the village of Debelt, and many more. Spending half the year in excavations, Prof. Vagalinski says “When you turn your hobby into a profession, you are in a constant state of recharge and exhaustion”. 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

Our speaker, Syed Maaz Hasan, inspired our audience by telling us about "The Lost Art of Discipline". Like the intricate workings of a plane, Maaz speaks to our hearts and talks about how we can rediscover discipline in our daily routines. I am an Australian student at Uptown International School. Although I was originally from Pakistan, I was born in the UAE and moved to Australia for eight years. My speech reflects on my past experiences and how I overcame them. I have always wanted to exceed or stand out in public speaking and have always looked for opportunities to do so. I believe that collecting experience and building my knowledge will aid me in success in whatever career I take on. I strongly believe that the more risks I take and the new things I try will allow me to stand out and leave an impact. 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

Sai's thought-provoking speech encourages us to question the moral gray area involved in lies. Through a set of tried and tested examples, Sai explores the moral ambiguity integrated into lying and exposes the truth behind lying. Hello! I am Sai Venkatraghavan, speaking at TEDxYouth@UIS.I have a passion for public speaking and debating, and there is no better opportunity than TEDxYouth@UIS! I am honored to present my talk on the Grey Area, where I dive into the Truth About Lying. I will explore how lies shape our lives, the surprising reasons we tell them, and how you could go wrong in lying. A few of my hobbies are swimming, singing, dancing and playing netball. I do swimming outside school and I attend a lot of competitions inside and outside school. Looking ahead, I aspire to participate in as many competitions and events as I can, expanding my knowledge on a wide range of things. I can’t wait to share my ideas and connect with others through this amazing experience, and to explore the story behind lying with an audience. 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