Why Don't We Care Enough? Redefining Empathy | Rashmi Raveendran | TEDxEmory
As the daughter of Sri Lankan refugees and the first in her family to be born in the United States, Rashmi's talk explores how her familial background transformed her perception of empathy and redefined her understanding of its practice worldwide. She discusses the current challenges that restrict us from accessing our most profound sense of compassion and explores her self-designed, working model of active empathy as a way to address these obstacles. Through this work, she aims to answer and resolve one central question: why don't we care enough? Rashmi Raveendran is a current Emory University senior studying Anthropology and Quantitative Sciences while on the pre-medicine track. Outside of her academic involvement with research focusing on cardiometabolic disease and its prevalence among South Asians, she plays ultimate frisbee and the piano and is heavily dedicated to community service. As a child of Sri Lankan refugees and the first in her family to be born in the United States, Rashmi's talk explores how her familial background transformed her perception of empathy and redefined her understanding of its practice worldwide. She discusses the current challenges that restrict us from accessing our most profound sense of compassion and explores her self-designed, working model of active empathy as a way to address these obstacles. Through this work, she aims to answer and resolve one central question: why don't we care enough? 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
More from TED
- 10:58Unveiling Your Why: How Action Reveals Purpose | Sunil Nataraj | TEDxBistupurIn this powerful talk, Mr. Sunil Nataraj, an Everester and a symbol of perseverance, shares his extraordinary journey of grit, discipline, and inner discovery. Unveiling Your Why explores how purpose is often not found, but revealed through action. Through the challenges of high-altitude climbs and personal trials, Mr. Nataraj reflects on how each step forward—despite uncertainty—brought him closer to understanding his deeper "why." His story is a compelling reminder that determination in the face of adversity can unlock a purpose far greater than we imagine. Mr. Sunil Nataraj is someone who has redefined limits—not just in the boardroom, but on the world’s highest peak. A seasoned corporate professional, he has navigated the fast-paced world of business, leading teams, driving innovation, and tackling complex challenges. But Mr. Nataraj’s biggest challenges weren’t just professional—they were deeply personal.Diagnosed with ADHD in his late 40s, Mr. Nataraj spent years struggling to find his ‘Why’ in a world that often felt too structured, too rigid. Yet, despite the noise, the distractions, and the self-doubt, he pursued a dream that many would call impossible: summiting Mount Everest.Mr. Nataraj’s journey is more than just one of physical endurance—it’s about rewiring the mind, embracing uncertainty, and proving that even the biggest weaknesses can become our greatest strengths.Today, he is here to share his story—a story of resilience, reinvention, and the power of discovering ‘Why.’ 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
- 12:36Anatomy of transformation process | Nitin surendra Sahai | TEDxBistupurWith over two and a half decades of experience in leading global organizations, Mr. Nitin brings deep insights into what truly drives meaningful change. In his talk, Anatomy of the Transformation Process, he breaks down the complex layers of transformation—be it organizational, cultural, or personal. Drawing from real-world experiences, he explores the mindsets, systems, and leadership behaviors that enable lasting impact. Mr. Nitin Surendra Sahai is a seasoned industry consultant and engineer with over 25 years of global experience in risk management, safety, and cultural transformation. He has worked across high-hazard chemical plants, electrical firms, certification bodies, and coaching organizations. His work has helped organizations navigate complexity, improve safety, and achieve sustainable growth. Mr. Sahai emphasizes risk management as a mindset shift, not just compliance—integrating purpose-driven leadership with robust strategy. At TEDxBistupur 2025, he will speak on The Power of ‘Why’, exploring how purpose fuels better decisions, stronger leadership, and innovation in high-stakes environments. 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
