Theme: ‘Development without destruction; a new challenge for the new decade’

Our event is called TEDx STS DWARKA YOUTH, where x = independently organized TED event. At our TEDx STS DWARKA YOUTH event, TED Talks video and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events, including ours, are self-organized.

In the face of rapid industrialization and globalization, the need for sustainable development has become increasingly evident. The destructive consequences of unbridled progress, which have wreaked havoc on our environment and communities, can no longer be ignored. As we enter a new decade, the challenge before us is clear - to pursue development without destruction. The urgency of this challenge lies in the fact that our current approach to development often prioritizes short-term gains over long-term sustainability. Natural resources are exploited without regard for their finite nature, leading to deforestation, pollution, and the depletion of essential ecosystems. Communities are displaced and their cultural heritage destroyed in the name of progress, leaving behind scars that are difficult to heal. However, a shift towards sustainable development is possible. It requires a holistic approach that looks beyond economic growth and considers social and environmental factors. Sustainable development seeks to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

To achieve development without destruction, we must focus on conservation and renewable resources. Investing in clean energy technologies and adopting sustainable agricultural practices can minimize our carbon footprint and mitigate the impacts of climate change. By promoting responsible consumption and production patterns, we can reduce waste and minimize our impact on the environment. Furthermore, sustainable development requires the engagement and empowerment of local communities. Their knowledge and participation are crucial in finding innovative solutions that harmonize development with local customs and traditions. Embracing diverse perspectives and ensuring inclusivity are essential aspects of sustainable development. Educating and raising awareness among the public is another vital step towards development without destruction. By understanding the interconnectedness of our actions and the impact they have on the planet, individuals can make informed choices and advocate for sustainable practices in their daily lives.

As we embark on this new decade, we have an opportunity to reshape our approach to development. By embracing sustainable practices, conserving our natural resources, and empowering local communities, we can forge a path towards development without destruction. It is a challenge that calls for collective action, global cooperation, and a commitment to leaving a positive legacy for future generations. Only then can we ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for all.

ST. THOMAS' SCHOOL, DWARKA
GOYALA VIHAR, NEAR SECTOR 19, DWARKA, NEW DELHI
NEW DELHI, Delhi, 110071
India

ANMOL BHATNAGAR

Student

With the honour of serving as the former head boy of the esteemed institution, he cultivates a passion for leadership and teamwork with commitment to upholding the values of the institution. His pursuits extend to a keen interest in new technology, showcasing his inquisitive mindset, a practical approach to collaborative endeavours, and engaging in meaningful interactions and contributing positively to the academic community. Beyond academics and leadership, his interests and hobbies are reflective of a curious and practical mindset. He intends to bring about a change around him through his philanthropic efforts.

DOLLY AHLUWALIA

Costume Designer, Actress

She is an Indian actress and ensemble creator who was awarded the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2001 for costume design. She has won three Filmfare Awards and three National Film Awards, two Best Costume Design awards for Bandit Queen and Haider, and Best Supporting Actress for Vicky Donor, which is additionally her most popular film as an entertainer. She is an alumnus of National School of Drama, graduated in 1979. She began her vocation by planning ensembles for theatre. From that point she began movie profession with Shekhar Kapur. Subsequently, she worked with some great directors like Vishal Bhardwaj in The Blue Umbrella, Omkara, Kaminey and Haider, with Deepa Mehta in Water and Midnight's Children, some other films like Love Aaj Kal, Luv Shuv Tey Chicken Khurana and with Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag.

INESH SINGH PAHWA

Student

He is a knowledge seeking young boy and a jack of all trades. From dancing his heart off, rapping his thoughts, converting creativeness into beatbox and writing intense poems, he has surely proved his ability on various occasions. He is a voracious public orator and plays many sports. He also mesmerizes by acting in Nukkad Natak. He has been to many reality television shows and likes to learn, adapt and become better as he grows. He is a national level taekwondo and boxing champion. He is friendly and humble who likes to help everyone in need.

MITA VASISHT

Actress

She has acted in over fifty-one films, numerous television serials including theatre. Her award winning performances have been in the films of Mani Kaul, Kumar Shahani and Govind Nihalani. She has written, produced and directed in television and theatre, and executive-produced the award winning ‘The Name of a River’, a docu-feature on Rhitwik Ghatak which won the Arivandan Puruskaram (2002). Her diversified work as an artist, director and a screenwriter has resulted to several prestigious awards and accolades such as Filmfare OTT Awards, Indian Television Awards, Bengal Film Critics Award and Screen Awards for best actress. Her own acting studio ‘The PROCESS’ based in Mumbai has trained several leads of major web series and professional actors. She has been a visiting faculty to the premier film, acting and design institutes in the country including NSD, NIFT, NID and WWI and HoD Acting at the FTII. She has also conducted theatre workshops in London, Birmingham and Damascus.

NAVYA SHARMA

Student

She is an artistic soul, finding creativity around everything she sees, breathing in drama, tracing the intricate patterns of life, choosing to grow from the experience. Strung up on perfectionism, she hopes on living a life full of silliness and thrills. She pens down her thoughts to the paper out of conscience, filling each blank that her decisiveness restricts her to. She wants to grow, glow, learn, relearn, forgive and evolve everyday in every way.

PRIYANKA KHURANA GOYAL

Mrs Earth and Mrs India Winner, Model, Actress

She is an Indian model, actress, the winner of Mrs. Earth 2015 pageant, and Mrs. India Queen of Substance beauty competition, 2015. She is the first Indian to win this title. After winning the title, Priyanka started her fashion line. She has modelled for famous designers such as Manish Malhotra and Shaina NC. She made her acting debut in 2020 with the short film "An Indian Girl". Priyanka was also Featured in a Music Video "Tere aane se Pehle " by Zee music Company in 2021. She graduated from IIM Kolkata and works at Nomura Securities as Managing Director. She has also contributed to social causes and is an ambassador for the Festival of Hope for cancer awareness. She also often volunteers at the Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital. She has also worked in the field of investment banking as an executive director at Nomura Securities.

RAKESH KHATRI

Environmentalist

An acclaimed documentary film maker with over 400 films to his credit, and an environmentalist popularly known as the Nest Man of India. He has made over 4.75 lakhs bird nests with students and young professionals. The completely unique bird nest made of jute and bamboo rings that is taught by him has a record rate of adoption of over 90%. Founder & Managing Trustee of Eco Roots Foundation, he has committed his life to stimulate young minds towards conservation of environment. For this, his work has been acknowledged both at national and international level. He has received the National Science Award 2020-21 awarded by Department of Science & Technology, Government of India.

SMITA DAS JAIN

Entrepreneur, Executive Coach, Author

She is the Founder and CEO of ‘Empower Yourself’, is a Certified Executive Coach, Personal Empowerment Life Coach and NLP Practitioner. An IIM Indore and SRCC alumna with about 17 years of experience, of which 14+ years have been in leadership roles with KPMG, United Technologies Corporation, and JLL advising Indian and global clients in their business strategies and transformation. The Asia Business Outlook has named Smita as one of the Top 10 Executives Coaches in Asia, 2022, and Silicon India has mentioned her among the 10 Most Promising Executive Coaches in India, 2023. She was also named among India’s Top 10 Women Entrepreneurs in the Her Rising Awards 2023 by Her Key (formerly Jobs For Her). She is also a bestselling author of three books and has been featured in India’s leading newspapers and periodicals like ‘GQ India’, ‘The Times of India’, ‘Fortune India’, ‘India Today’, ‘The Pioneer’ and ‘The Daily Guardian.’

TANISH SHENOY

Entrepreneur, Author

He is the Founder/CEO, # 1International Bestseller Author and an accomplished high school junior from Silicon Valley, California with a passion for innovation and technology. At just 16, he has achieved significant milestones, including the development of a successful quiz app and the founding of an online gifting platform. Shenoy's contributions as a TEDx speaker, bestselling author, and medium writer have positioned him as an influential thought leader and a mentor for aspiring teen entrepreneurs. Shenoy's upcoming courses, The GenZ Entrepreneurship Boot Camp Course and GenZ Entrepreneurship Mastery Course, exemplify his dedication to empowering young entrepreneurs with the knowledge and skills needed for business success. He has got featured in notable US media outlets like Mountain Democrat and Diamond Queen 'The Gen Z Entrepreneur' and has been recognised as an #1 International Bestseller on Amazon Medium Writer.