Theme: Shifting Perspectives

This year, we are proud to announce the TEDxYouth@HABS 2024.

With an impressive line-up of distinguished speakers spanning a wide range of industries, from business and technology to lifestyle and wellness, this year's event promises to be more exciting than ever. Joining our guest speakers on stage will be a selection of Haberdashers' own talented teachers and students, aiming to share their unique areas of expertise and passion to a global audience.

Check out more information about our speakers' by clicking on their name.

Haberdashers Boys School
Butterfly Ln, Elstree
London, Hertfordshire, WD6 3AF
United Kingdom

Aaryan Doshi

A Level Student

Aaryan Doshi is an A Level student at Haberdashers’ Boys’ School, studying Maths, Further Maths, Physics and Philosophy. He is particularly interested in the intersection between theoretical physics and philosophy. Using this platform, Aaryan aims to demonstrate this interdisciplinary passion by applying logical reasoning to gain an intuition of the world around us. He firmly believes that there is more to physics than just mathematical equations, and in order to appreciate the beauty of our physical theories, it is important that we are able to conceptualise them in a simple and captivating way.

Aryan Mathur

A Level Student

Aryan Mathur is an A-level student currently studying Maths, Politics, History, and Computer Science. He aspires to become a lawyer, driven by a profound interest in global politics and the impact of the evolution of technology on society. Actively engaging in conferences such as European Youth Parliament and Model United Nations, as well as assisting in organising this year's TEDx event, Aryan aims to cultivate young people's interest in political discourse and participation. His ultimate goal being to contribute to creating a fair and equal society with a well-informed and active electorate.

Asher Nagler

A Level Student

Asher Nagler is an A-level student at Haberdashers’ Boys’ School, studying Maths, Further Maths, History and Russian. Having an interest in linguistics and computer science, Asher developed a passion for natural language processing. Asher is also deeply passionate about leaving a positive mark on the world and is interested in looking at how we as humans can be more caring towards each other.

Chris Ovia

Educator, Head of Computer Science at HABS

With a background in education spanning challenging schools, socially deprived areas, and experiences in the Middle East, Chris Ovia has dedicated his career to making a profound impact. In addition, having grown up in Africa, he brings a unique perspective and a deep understanding of humanity with him. He has successfully transformed not only struggling students but also those already achieving high levels of success. As head of department, he inspires both students and colleagues to reach their full potential. Being a father of three very different children has further deepened his empathy with humanity. Understanding the diverse needs and perspectives of his own family has equipped him with insights into the complexities of human nature and relationships. His experiences have taught him the importance of resilience and empathy in overcoming obstacles and fostering positive change. He remains committed to empowering individuals to make a difference, creating a brighter future for all

Dr Joo Phin Ooi

Biologist, Educator

Dr. Ooi is an experienced biologist, currently serving as a dedicated Biology teacher at the Haberdashers' Girls' School. She graduated from the University of Manchester with a degree in Genetics and completed a research placement at the University of Tsukuba in Japan, broadening her scientific horizons. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued a PhD in Plant Science, where her research contributions were highlighted by a first-author publication. With a rich background in academic research and education, Dr. Ooi brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role, inspiring her students to explore the fascinating world of biology.

Dr Roger Kneebone

Professor of Surgical Education & Engagement Science, Imperial College London

Roger’s first career was a trauma surgeon, caring for people who had been stabbed and shot. Then he became a general practitioner, working in a seven doctor practice in the South West of England. In 2000 he joined Imperial College London, one of the world’s leading universities. Roger is fascinated by exploring across disciplinary boundaries - from music and magic to medicine and law. He jointly leads the Centre for Performance Science, a collaboration between Imperial and the Royal College of Music, and in 2019 he became the fourteenth Professor of Anatomy at the Royal Academy of Arts. He collaborates with scientists, clinicians, artists and craftspeople, and his book Expert was published by Penguin in 2021. He leads Imperial’s SHARP project, using simulation and the arts to reduce the impact of knife violence on young people.

Faraz Ahmad

A Level Student, Co-lead TEDxYouth@HABS

Faraz Ahmad is an ambitious A-level student with a passion in technology and is currently studying Maths, Further Maths, Computer Science and Chemistry. Faraz is co-leading this year’s event, looking to spark inspiration within others. Through 13 years at Habs, he looks towards the significance of leaving something behind that is meaningful, never choosing to be the people of tomorrow that didn’t care about today. Faraz aims to carve out a path that not only advances his own aspirations, but also leaves a lasting imprint on the ambitions of others too.

Ian R Phillips

Digital Strategist @InspirEdu, Former Assistant Head – Director of Computing and ICT @Habs

Ian is a former Assistant Head – Director of Computing and ICT @Habs, having worked as Chair at the Independent Schools’ Council, and now running not-for-profit, International RoundTables to “Remove Digital Headaches” with Senior School leaders, Government ministers and innovators in leading EdTech Companies. The seventh roundtable in 18months, in Cardiff on 21st March 2024, will be a 360o exploration of Where Welsh education is now and Where Next? Ian is an Intel Visionary, Connector, passionate about empowering learning by bringing people together to create partnerships for compassionate #PedTech implementation. The ultimate goal is to empower a global learning community with the knowledge, skills and understanding to prepare for our future digital economies.

Jihyun Park

North Korean Human Rights Activists, Politician, Author

Jihyun Park, hailing from North Korea and twice escaping its confines. Her mission is to shed light on the realities endured by North Koreans and women, confronting the injustices and crimes against humanity they face, despite danger it poses to herself. Author of the compelling memoir "The Hard Road Out," her journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Recognized for her advocacy, she has been honored with prestigious awards including the NatWest Chairman’s Award in 2018, the Amnesty Brace Award in 2020, and The Times Hero 2021 accolade. Additionally, she was named a finalist for the GG2 Leadership & Diversity award in 2023. Through her work, she aims to inspire others to stand up, speak out, and make a difference in the world.

Jimmy McLoughlin OBE

Podcaster, Former Special Advisor to the British Prime Minister

Jimmy McLoughlin OBE is a podcaster and former special advisor to the Prime Minister on business, technology and entrepreneurship. Jimmy has worked at the highest levels of business and government, serving for three years as the Prime Minister’s Business Director at 10 Downing Street from 2016 to 2019. During a period of momentous political change, Jimmy helped shape the British government’s relationship with domestic and international businesses, and witnessed firsthand the dynamic between industry leaders, entrepreneurs and policy-makers. Jimmy now hosts his own podcast, Jimmy's Jobs of the Future which interviews entrepreneurs about the jobs they are creating and what the future of our economy looks like. Guests include Rishi Sunak, Andrew Bailey, Ben Francis, Pip Jamieson and Gavin Barwell.

Lissele Pratt

Entrepreneur, Capitalixe co-founder, Forbes 30 under 30

Lissele Pratt, a young entrepreneur and fintech trailblazer, co-founded and scaled Capitalixe into a seven-figure consultancy in less than 3 years. Acclaimed on Forbes 30 Under 30 and Tech Round's 29 Under 29 lists, she's a UK Fintech Awards Rising Star, winner of Fintech Businesswoman of the Year 2024 and a force on the Women in Fintech Powerlist. An official member of the Forbes Business Council, she's a prolific contributor to multiple prestigious publications and sought-after guest in podcasts, also hosting her own “Success Secrets” series. Lissele is a celebrated speaker, mentor to women in fintech, and an influential figure for diversity and inclusion within the industry.

Lt Col Dean Canham OBE

Head of The Centre For Army Leadership

He graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 2000 and deployed on operational tours in Northern Ireland, Sierra Leone and as the Reconnaissance Platoon Commander in northern Afghanistan in 2004. He was the Ceremonial Adjutant on State ceremonial duties in London, and the Battle Group Operations Officer in Helmand Province, Afghanistan in 2007. He subsequently commanded A (Grenadier) Company 2 Mercian in Helmand in 2011, led the Battalion’s contingent at the 2012 Olympic Games, and deployed to the Falkland Islands. He worked as an Executive Officer in Army HQ, and as a Plans Officer for Africa in the Joint Headquarters and Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, for which he was appointed an OBE in 2018. He assumed regimental command in 2020, taking the 1 Mercian Battle Group on operations in Estonia in 2021, and commanding the Lead Armoured Battle Group until spring 2023, when he became Head of the Centre for Army Leadership at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.

Nabil Freeman

Serial Entrepreneur, Technology Expert and Visionary

Nabil Freeman is a British entrepreneur from London. Setting aside a conventional career, he rejected societal expectations and carved his own path through the world of business. To date he has founded five companies, most notably LeSalon which was acquired by a publicly traded American company. Over a decade in UK startups has lead to Nabil becoming an expert in his field, with numerous successes and failures including two exited businesses, dropping out of university and surviving a near-death experience. His story, at times more spiritual than corporate, is a testament to the transformative power of following one's own path and listening to your heart.

Rt Hon David Gauke

Former Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary

David Gauke is a former Conservative MP and Cabinet Minister, having served as Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Secretary of State for Work & Pensions, and Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor. He stood as an independent in 2019 in South West Hertfordshire, the constituency he had represented since 2005, having lost the Conservative whip because of his opposition to a no deal Brexit. Amongst other activities, David is a regular columnist for the New Statesman and ConservativeHome and has recently edited the book The Case for the Centre Right.

Stephen Gillen

International Peace Prize nominee, Entrepreneur, Author

A Successful International Entrepreneur in diverse Industries mainly Media, Stephen Gillen had a dark past and a tough start. Growing up in war-torn Belfast till age 9 he came to London's East End and rose through London's gangland eventually receiving 17 years as a category A prisoner. After serving 12 years he transformed his life in 2019 being nominated for an International Peace Prize. A best-selling author with his new book, "Extraordinary, Stephen Gillen: The Search for a Life Worth Living" soon to be a major film, Stephen is also a TV personality and has stared in Gangs of London, Essex Murders and just recently finished another premium TV series For Sky with Ross Kemp and other well-known personalities.

Viren Dulabh

HSBC Degree Apprentice, OH 2022

Viren Dulabh is a Degree Apprentice working in the Banking and Finance industry. Whilst being an academic scholar at Haberdashers' Boys' School in Hertfordshire, he achieved 4 A*s at A level in Further Maths, Maths, Economics and Physics. He then decided to pursue an apprenticeship rather than go to university to start his career. He aims to demistify the stigma surrounding apprenticeships, highlighting the immense opportunity they present in creating an innovative and dynamic workforce, as well as the personal benefits they offer. Through perspective-shifting speeches at schools and events as well as mentoring, Viren looks to help students make an informed decision in choosing their paths.

Zorica Bowie

Educator, English Teacher at HABS Girls

Miss Bowie is an English teacher with a decade of experience at Haberdashers’ Girls’ School and more than two decades as a teacher of English and Drama in a wide variety of senior schools. Her conviction that inspiration should not stop at the classroom door is clear through her passionate belief in leading experiences outside of the classroom – to performances, lectures and travel around the globe. Miss Bowie graduated with a Master of Philosophy degree at King’s College, London, in June 2023, from the Faculty of Social Science and Public Policy, whilst teaching full-time: she believes in leading by example, showing her students that they are capable of achieving whatever they set their minds to.