Theme: Now or Never

In a world constantly in motion, where every second counts, the theme of "Now or Never" resonates deeply. It encapsulates the urgency and significance of taking action in the present moment. This theme serves as a powerful call to arms for individuals, communities, and societies alike, urging them to embrace opportunities, confront challenges, and drive meaningful change.

"Now or Never" ignites passion, inspires action, and provokes thoughts. Speakers share compelling stories, innovative ideas, and transformative insights that challenge the status quo and empower listeners to make a difference. Whether it's addressing pressing global issues, pursuing personal growth, or sparking social movements, these talks compel audiences to act decisively and courageously.

Through captivating narratives and thought-provoking discussions, TED speakers explore the essence of seizing the moment and the profound impact of timely action. They delve into topics such as steps to excellence, using indigenious knowledge to navigate environmental changes and other topics like being a second generation immigrant living in a global era and more.

The "Now or Never" theme serves as a rallying cry for individuals to overcome procrastination, fear, and doubt, and embrace the power of possibility. It challenges us to confront the pressing issues of our time with determination and resilience, reminding us that the time for action is now.

Newlands College
68 Bracken Road, Newlands
Exhibition/Drama Room
Wellington, Wellington, 6037
New Zealand

Gargi Vaidya

Public Speaker

As a second-generation immigrant navigating the complexities of a global era, the journey may seem daunting. Yet, within this intricate tapestry of experiences lies a narrative rich with meaning and urgency, particularly under the theme of "Now or Never." In this TED Talk, the speaker delves into their personal experiences, unraveling the layers of what it means to straddle cultures and identities in today's world. Through storytelling and reflection, they aim to shed light on the broader implications of being an immigrant, compounded by the complexities of second-generation identity. Their speech endeavors to paint a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs inherent in this journey, offering insights that resonate not only with fellow immigrants but also with those seeking to understand the immigrant experience. By sharing their perspective, the speaker hopes to enlighten, enrich, and provoke thought, fostering a deeper understanding and connection among diverse audiences.

Giorgia Dixon

Activist

The overlooked and merciless organ trade – but this one affects children. Have you heard about this haunting organ theft but through slam poetry? Its contrast between haunting pauses and lines slamming into the next will not only paint a raw picture of this ghastly problem but uncover the effects and solutions to this illicit trade. Join me and together we will uncover awareness and solutions to help the 9,200,000 victims, one child at a time.

Joseph Asfaw

Head Student

Have you ever asked yourself what’s stopping you from becoming the best at what you do? Sometimes we expect to excel in life but these expectations stay as thoughts in our mind, where is the action? Excellence doesn't just have to be in sports or academics. Excelling can be doing your best in the smallest things and making the biggest difference in your own life and others’ lives. It's those leaps of faith that will lead to your excellence, trying something new and being your unapologetic self. Let’s go on a journey that may just transform your life from okay to excellent.

Kaita Tahi Hummel-Jibiki

Climate Activist

In an era marked by environmental crisis and ecological uncertainty, the question arises: Is harnessing indigenous knowledge the key to navigating our collective environmental challenges and paving the way forward? This TEDxYouth Talk explores the profound insights embedded within indigenous cultures and their holistic approaches to environmental stewardship, offering valuable lessons that have often been overlooked or forgotten.

Lizzie Evans

Activist

The theme of my speech is finding Aotearoa’s story, the power of indigenous wisdom. My speech explores the importance of embracing the guiding wisdom of Te Ao Maori in our modern society alongside the knowledge other cultures bring. As Maori we must reclaim our stories while the wider community needs to review the misguided perceptions of Maori that have been handed down. Maori are often labelled as drunks, dropouts and brutes and it is time to question why we have been fed this image and to confront our past. We must value indigenous wisdom as a unique power of Aotearoa which can help us forge a better narrative for generations of New Zealanders to come.

Maysen Hineraukura Pappafloratos

Activist

Kaupapa of being unapologetically maori. How the concept has been misinterpreted through the lens of western society.