Exploring how AI, big data, and mathematical models could track outbreaks before they happen—so why do we still wait until disaster strikes? Have you ever said “yes” when you really wanted to say “no”? Society teaches us that being nice keeps the peace—but at what cost? In this thought-provoking talk, Ishita Karuturi explores how prioritizing niceness over honesty can stifle our voices, weaken our boundaries, and hold us back from meaningful impact. Through personal stories, research, and real-world examples, she makes the case for shifting from niceness to true kindness—one rooted in honesty, integrity, and constructive disagreement. 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

This talk challenges prevailing societal perceptions of disability in India, advocating for a shift from a charity-based model to one of empowerment and inclusion. It explores how deep-rooted cultural attitudes and systemic barriers limit opportunities for people with disabilities and highlights the need for policy reforms, accessibility, and a change in mindset to foster a truly inclusive society. Sai Prasad Vishwanathan is a gold medalist from Chaitanya Bharathi Institute of Technology, holds an M.S. in Computer Science from the University of Wisconsin, and a business degree from ISB Hyderabad. He was the first Indian with a disability to skydive from 14,000 feet and the first Asian with a disability to join the prestigious Antarctic Youth Ambassador Program. As the co-founder of Sahasra, a scholarship initiative for underprivileged students, he has worked to improve accessibility and create opportunities for people with disabilities. 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