Theme: Nirvana

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Baku Higher Oil School Campus
Baku Higher Oil School Campus
Baku, Bakı, 1023
Azerbaijan

Ali Khayyam

Podcaster

As a dedicated CRM & Marketing professional, he brings extensive experience across finance, automotive, and retail. Leveraging a data-oriented, customer-centered approach, he drives growth and retention through CRM-oriented strategies. Proficient in Microsoft and Salesforce platforms, he blends technical expertise and business acumen for tangible results. Additionally, he hosts the popular Azerbaijani podcast "Sohbetgah," engaging listeners with diverse topics that inspire critical thinking.

Farid Safarov

Food Engineer, Nutritionist

From 2004 to 2008, he earned a bachelor's degree in food engineering and non-food products at Azerbaijan University of Technology. Transitioning into the workforce, he served as quality control department manager and food engineer at Dia Holding from 2009 to 2013, then at Renaissance Construction from 2013 to 2017. Between 2018 and 2021, he held roles as a leading specialist in the quality control department at Bina Agro CJSC, along with serving as a regional manager in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Volgograd, Russia, and Guangzhou, China. Currently, he operates as an operations manager at Ciao Catering.

Goktug Sari

Creative Director, Entrepreneur

With 14 years of experience in communication and advertising, he graduated from Istanbul Bilgi University (Turkey) and Universidad Europea de Madrid (Spain) with a focus on Comparative Literature and Advertising. He worked at global agencies like Ogilvy and McCann, and at Wanda Digital in Istanbul. Collaborating with brands including Garanti Bank, Turkcell, Audi, PepsiCo, and Coca-Cola, he became Regional Digital Content Director at FCB Artgroup Network, covering Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. He also served as Creative Director at Baku Media Center and continues as Director of Events and Community at Sabah.Hub.

Gunel Khalilova

Psychologist

She holds degrees in Gestalt Therapy and Psychology, with coaching training from international programs. With extensive experience in personal therapy and counseling, she now works as a Gestalt coach, psychotherapist, and psychologist.

Hikmat Aliyev

Business Development Consultant

With degrees from Azerbaijan State University of Economics, Ege University Turkish World Research Institute, and Ankara University, he boasts over 15 years of experience. He's held various roles, including vice-president at Azerbaijan Automobile Federation and positions in marketing, advising, and executive leadership at companies like OBA Market, Alyans Tekstil, Smart Home Baku, and Technol. Now, he's the founding director of Endlessideas, contributing to academic articles and excelling in business planning and strategy implementation.

Jamal Aghayev

Innovation Strategist, Startup Catalyst

Jamal Agayev is a professional with expertise in UX engineering, team management, and fostering an innovative company culture. With over 11 years of experience, he has led successful initiatives in startups, innovative transformations, and investments across numerous organizations. Notably, he spearheaded the "Startup School Azerbaijan" project in 2021, educating approximately 100 young individuals on international startup culture and entrepreneurship methodologies. Currently serving as the head of the Startup Ecosystem Building Department at the Innovation and Digital Development Agency, Jamal oversees quality control, incubation-acceleration support, and the development of innovation ecosystems in universities and regions.

Kamal Mahmudov

Sales Trainer

He studied International Relations at Baku Slavic University and later led the sales team at Burj Al Arab, the world's only 7-star hotel. He collaborated with companies like "Audi," "Volkswagen," "Schneider Electric," and "RedBull," conducting trainings at institutions such as "Ziraat Bank," "ABB," and "One Smart Star." As for 2024, he heads the sales department at "Inex Medical."

Rashad Bayramov

Advisor to Minister of Digital Development and Transport

With a master's degree in communication and marketing from the Rochester Institute of Technology and another in philology from Azerbaijan University of Languages, he boasts a career spanning over twenty years. He worked at BP, excelling at representing the company across various audiences. Additionally, he authored two books on communication and presentation skills, conducted international business trainings across several countries, and held diverse roles, including press secretary, editor-in-chief, business journalist, head of foreign relations, and regional manager.

Sema Abiyeva

TV presenter, influencer

Studying Journalism at Baku State University and AcunMedia Digital Content and Broadcasting department, she began her career as a presenter and editor at Khazar TV, ATV channels, and 106.3 FM radio in 2011. In 2014, she ventured into YouTube blogging, advocating social causes like breast cancer awareness, literacy, and environmental conservation. In 2023, she led content creation at AcunMedya Academy and worked with influencer agencies in Turkey. Presently, she collaborates with Turkish agencies as an influencer and agency owner, producing podcasts on financial literacy and sex education.

Talifa Isgandarli

Community Builder, Head of Baku ID investment event

She holds a degree in International Relations and directed a center supporting 6,000+ youth, 100+ startups, and 10 entrepreneurs. At SABAH.HUB, she secured collaborations with international firms and attracted $500,000 in investments as chair of "Baku ID Investment Day." Her event, "BakuID 2023" won the "Best Event of the Year" award at the IDDA Awards.