Welcome to the latest episode of the WAB Podcast. In this episode, we explored?TEDx Youth at WAB. Joining us were Kristina?and?Jeremy, two senior students and co-organizers of TEDx Youth this school year, and?Abril?from Grade 12 and?Elsa from Grade 8, who shared their ideas at this year’s event. They discussed their journeys, challenges, and favorite moments, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it took to bring TEDx to life and how it is a platform for growth, courage, and self-discovery. 

Jeremy introduced TEDx Youth at WAB as a fully student-led initiative that has been running for over a decade. What made the event truly special was that every aspect—from organizing to speaking—was entirely managed by students. 

Kristina and Jeremy, both in their final year of high school, have been leading the TEDx Youth club for the past two years. They first joined as speakers, and over time, fell in love with the experience. Their passion eventually led them to become co-leaders of the club. 

Kristina emphasized that TEDx gives students the chance to share ideas they are truly passionate about. This year's theme, "Clarity in Complexity," reflected the increasingly complex world students navigate today, shaped by the rise of AI and other global changes. "Through this TEDx, we try to find clarity within that complexity," she said.  

For Abril, a first-time speaker in Grade 12, the platform offered an opportunity to explore a theme close to her heart: finding focus in a world dominated by social media. She had always been fascinated by self-improvement and the search for meaning amid digital distractions. Initially intimidated by public speaking, Abril gradually built her confidence through the rehearsals and feedback sessions organized by the TEDx team. She saw the event as a safe space to grow, learn, and challenge herself. 

Elsa, an eighth-grader, chose to speak about the courage to say no. Her idea stemmed from a challenging summer, during which she learned to set boundaries and overcome personal struggles. As a two-time participant, Elsa faced a new challenge this year—speaking alone at an event where most participants were high school students. However, with the support of her peers and the organizers, she found the confidence to craft her speech and deliver it with confidence. 

If you want to hear more about our students' inspiring TEDx journey, don't miss this episode!