Theme: Bridging Boundaries

As the world becomes more interconnected, our potential for impact is greater than ever. This event showcases high school innovators and leaders who are bridging gaps across scientific, societal, and economic boundaries. Like Marley Dias, who started a campaign to promote diversity in children's literature, and Greta Thunberg, who ignited a global youth movement to combat climate change, our speakers will present inspiring stories and innovative solutions that draw on the strengths of diverse populations. As we delve into the power of collaboration in transforming our communities, join us to discover how we can redefine what it means to thrive in an evolving world, not only by breaking boundaries but by bridging them.

Cox Mill High School
1355 Cox Mill Rd
Concord, North Carolina, 28027
United States

Aanandi Thakur

High School Senior

Aanandi Thakur, a student at NCSSM, is drawn to innovative product development at the intersection of healthcare and technology. Through founding multiple public health initiatives, collaborating with industry leaders, and utilizing journalism and research to address health inequities, her efforts have impacted thousands across the nation. As a former TEDx guest speaker and organizer, she is excited to bring TEDx to Cox Mill High School, working with inspiring students and providing them with a platform to share their own unique stories that not only break boundaries but also bridge them.

Avi Deshmukh

High School Junior

Avi Deshmukh, a student at Cox Mill High School, actively promotes the importance of self-expression and fights to challenge societal norms. He is currently the Co-President of the Gender-Sexuality Alliance and has been elected twice as the Class Vice President, demonstrating a strong commitment to his school community. Additionally, he is involved in the Cross Country team, has performed as a lead in numerous musicals, and has garnered recognition for his creativity and passion both within the state and internationally.

Hadi Abdul

High School Junior

Hadi Abdul is a rising junior at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics. As a motivational speaker, he has traveled to Southeast Asia and Europe, teaching children and young adults with disabilities to communicate effectively under the theme, “A disability is just a new ability.” Hadi has worked on engineering projects at Yale University, collaborated with professors from Princeton University, and worked with engineers in Scotland to design new technologies aimed at improving lives globally. His most recent project is an ergonomic wind turbine currently in production in Glasgow, Scotland.

Hansika Nasanally

High School Junior

Hansika Nasanally is a rising junior at Cox Mill High School and hopes to pursue a career in the medical field. As an advocate for diversity, she has toured the country and spoken to thousands of today's youth about cultural appreciation through her “Undeniably Me“ workshops. She has also launched a global video series, viewed in over six countries, educating audiences about cultures from around the world. Hansika has been an Indian classical dancer for 15 years and is currently one of the youngest in North Carolina to graduate in this art form.

Harshini Bulusu

High School Junior

Harshini Bulusu, a rising junior at Cox Mill High School, is passionate about helping her community. As the President and Founder of NSSA Charlotte, she has set an impactful course in environmental advocacy. Through her webinars, she encourages younger students to speak up for change, inspiring a new generation to make a difference. Harshini also pitched an innovative app to combat domestic violence in the Ready Set App competition, demonstrating her commitment to addressing important social issues. Her latest project involves planarian regenerative research with potential applications for memory illnesses, highlighting her dedication to both scientific discovery and improving lives.

Prerana Kulla

High School Senior

Prerana Kulla, a student at the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, is passionately engaged in addressing period poverty. Through her multifaceted approach, she continues to leverage innovation, community service, and literature to make a difference. Outside of her work with The Menstrual Movement, Prerana is an avid Bharatanatyam dancer, loves traveling, and enjoys playing pickleball.

Rakesh Nagamathan

College Freshman

Rakesh Nagamathan is a rising freshman at UNC Charlotte, and an avid activist of inclusion and equality. As former president of his high school’s Asian Student Association, he has made great strides toward the movement of cultural recognition for hundreds of students. He hopes to cultivate more ideas of inclusion in his further endeavors and expand upon ideas of diversity and culture.

Saanvi Majji

High School Junior

Saanvi Majji is a rising junior at Cox Mill High School who aspires to work in the field of medicine and integrate computer science to enhance medical practices. She has spoken at multiple Kumon award ceremonies, addressing thousands of students and parents. Alongside her role as a lead volunteer at Novant Health, she has received three Presidential Service Awards for her dedication to service. Saanvi is a Bharatanatyam dancer who loves listening to music and cooking. She hopes to one day share her life lessons with the world and inspire others to believe in themselves.

Ved Modak

High School Junior

Ved Modak, a dedicated student at Cox Mill High School, is deeply passionate about business and filmmaking. He currently serves as the Junior Class President and DECA Co-President at his school and actively demonstrates impactful involvement in his community. Internationally recognized for his video productions, Ved continues to push the boundaries of creativity in his work. Beyond his accolades, he loves playing tennis, listening to music, and watching movies.