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).

Springhouse Middle School
1200 Springhouse Rd
Allentown, Pennsylvania, 18104
United States

Adam Vasquies

Student and Avid Public Speaker

Adam Vasquies is a junior at Parkland High School. Throughout his time in high school, he has developed a great affinity for public speaking and the humanities through his involvement in the debate team, Model UNs, and the Future Business Leaders of America. He is devoted to promoting incremental progress and the optimal ways to develop valuable life skills. He hopes that his message will inspire people to achieve their own goals.

Jayaditya Kothari

Student and Biotechnology Advocate

Jayaditya Kothari is a junior at Parkland High School. Throughout high school, he has developed a strong interest in medicine and biochemistry by starting the school's biology club, placing at national science competitions, and conducting novel biotechnology research at universities and startup companies who are in their research and development phases. Combined with his passion for public speaking, Jayaditya hopes to advocate how systemic healthcare issues of affordability and distribution can be solved by implementing innovative biotechnology solutions, and he encourages all members of the community to play their part in bridging the healthcare divide.

Mehrar Brar

Student Author

Mehar Brar (15), born and raised in India, is an artist, creative naturalist, and lover of rain. She’s an advanced Bharatanatyam dancer and author of her Art and Poetry book - Worldness. Her art and writing are published in various literary magazines. Her work- exhibited in Chennai Photo Biennale and awarded across various artistic disciplines. She presented her book at Delhi poetry festival and was invited to talk at Shikshantar about her journey to publishing. She is determined not just to make a career around art, but also a voice on the importance of art in the journey of humanity.

Neha Atchyunthuni

Student and Education Advocate

Neha Atchyuthuni is a sophomore at Parkland High School. She is interested in computer science and has participated in multiple science fairs. Additionally, she has also placed nationally in Science Olympiad. Aside from this, she enjoys Indian classical dance and writing stories in her free time. She loves helping her peers by tutoring and volunteering. Neha hopes to spark change in the education system and make a positive impact on students with her speech.

Samith Rohatgi

Student Advocate

Samith Rohatgi is a junior at Parkland High School. Throughout his high school career, he has developed many interests, ranging from Computer Science to Public Speaking. He has been a member of various student organizations, including the Parkland Debate Team and Scholastic Scrimmage Team. Through this talk, Samith hopes to motivate others to put themselves in uncomfortable situations, and to enable growth in ways they would have previously seen as impossible.