Theme: THE MATRIX

In a world defined by choices, systems, and unseen influences, The Matrix invites us to pause and question the reality we move through each day. This year’s TEDxNew Castle School Cairo event explores the hidden patterns that shape our beliefs, behaviors, and futures—whether in technology, culture, identity, or innovation. Through diverse talks by students, educators, and changemakers, we unravel the complex layers of the world around us and within us.

Newcastle International School
R2 district New Capital city
Cairo, Al Qāhirah, 11865
Egypt

Ahmed Hussam

Academic and AP Coordinator

Mr. Ahmed Hussam is an experienced educator and the Academic and AP Coordinator at Newcastle International School, where he guides students through critical academic and career planning decisions. With a strong background in education and a passion for mentorship, he helps students navigate the evolving landscape of modern success. Mr. Ahmed believes in the value of adaptability and lifelong learning, encouraging young minds to embrace change rather than fear it. His work is grounded in the belief that growth often comes from unexpected turns, not rigid plans.

Dina El-Kersh

Associate Professor, Department of Medicinal Plants & Phytochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, The British University in Egypt

Dr. Dina El-Kersh earned her Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy from Ain Shams University in 2002 and went on to complete both her MSc and Ph.D. in Pharmacy at Cairo University. With over a decade of academic experience, Dr. El-Kersh has been a dedicated faculty member at BUE since 2012. Her work focuses on the scientific exploration of medicinal plants, aiming to bridge traditional knowledge with modern pharmaceutical research.

Dina Shaheen

Kindergarten and Elementary Principal

Mrs. Dina began her career in education with a passion for language, stepping into the classroom as an English teacher. Her dedication to student growth was clear from the start. Never one to rest on her laurels, she continuously pursued further education, navigating and conquering every challenge that came her way. This commitment to learning and her innate leadership qualities steadily propelled her from the classroom to the principal's office. Today, she stands as an inspiring Elementary Principal, a true testament to her unwavering dedication to educational excellence.

Farida Abdelbar

High-School Student

Farida Abdelbar is a high school student with a deep passion for personal growth and emotional resilience. Through her own experiences, she has learned to face fear, anxiety, and self-doubt with courage and determination. Farida believes in the power of small, consistent steps and encourages her peers to move forward—even when the path feels uncertain. She is committed to inspiring young people to embrace discomfort as a necessary part of growth and self-discovery.

Hamza Hossam

High-School Student

Hamza Hossam is a high school student with a passion for creative thinking and personal growth. He enjoys exploring new ideas, whether through reading, problem-solving, or engaging in meaningful conversations.

Hania Elminshawy

University Student

Hania Elminshawy is a Mass Communications student at the University of Hertfordshire in Egypt with a diverse background in sports, media, and mental performance. She is a content creator for Inches Sports Performance and HG Mental Academy, where she blends creativity with a passion for well-being and personal development. A former fencer on the Egyptian national team, Hania brings discipline, focus, and adaptability to everything she pursues. Her multifaceted experiences continue to shape her perspective and drive to make a meaningful impact.

Kenzy Khalid

High-School Student

Kenzy Khalid is a high school student and passionate mental health advocate who seeks to shed light on the emotional wounds that often go unnoticed. With a deep interest in psychology and human behavior, she explores the hidden pain, trauma, and insecurity that can drive bullying. Kenzy is committed to fostering empathy and understanding as tools to break cycles of harm and create more compassionate communities. Her work encourages others to look beyond actions and see the humanity behind the hurt.

Loaa Diaa

Head of Science Department

Dr. Loaa Diaa is a dedicated dental professional and educator with a passion for both science and academic leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Oral and Dental Medicine from Cairo University and a Master’s degree in Oral Biology and Dental Anatomy from Suez Canal University. She combines her medical expertise with a commitment to inspiring the next generation. With a strong belief in the power of education and curiosity, Dr. Loaa continues to bridge the gap between clinical science and impactful teaching.

Lojain Hussein

High-School Student

Lojain is a high school student with a keen interest in digital culture and the psychology behind human behavior. Fascinated by how technology shapes our daily lives, she often reflects on the balance between connection and control in the modern world.

Mariem Seleim

High-School Student

Mariem Seleim is a high school student with a deep appreciation for creativity, self-expression, and the emotional power of art. As both an artist and a critical thinker, she is passionate about preserving the human element in creative work. Mariem is especially interested in how emerging technologies, like AI, are reshaping our relationship with art and authenticity. Through her work, she advocates for art that stays true to its purpose—expressing emotion and building meaningful connections.

Mina Farouk

Middle and High School Social Studies Teacher

Mr. Mina Farouk is a passionate middle and high school social studies teacher with a deep appreciation for history and language. With years of experience in the classroom, he brings the ancient world to life for his students, making complex civilizations relatable and engaging. His fascination with linguistics and cultural heritage has led him to explore how ancient Egyptian words have traveled through time to influence modern languages. Mr. Mina is dedicated to showing how the echoes of history continue to shape our everyday lives.

Moayad Mobarez

High-School Senior

Moayad Mobarez is driven by a deep curiosity about the human mind. Fascinated by psychology, he explores what truly motivates people beyond fame, money, or status. Moayad believes that real success is found in strong relationships and purposeful living, and he’s on a mission to inspire others to redefine what it means to live a successful life.

Mohamed Emadeldin

University Student

Mohamed Emadeldin Arafa is an 18-year-old studying Psychology at Coventry University at the Knowledge Hub universities. He is an adventurer who explores the different ways people can create change while staying positive and having fun. Mohamed has actively created change in many places he was tied to, from his school where he initiated the first Student Union and Psychology club to his local visual rehabilitation centre where he spread awareness about the undergraduate awareness needs of people with visual impairments. Mohamed has also brought this spirit of adventure to his own life, where he explores different hobbies and interests like visiting local gardens and rating them. Mohamed is continuously seeking new adventures in his own unique way and encourages others to do the same.

Nadia Ahmed

High-School Student

Nadia Ahmed is a high school student and passionate athlete who advocates for gender equality in sports. Through her own experiences and observations, she has witnessed the discrimination and bullying that many female athletes face—from peers, families, and even coaches. Nadia is committed to challenging these barriers and empowering girls to pursue their athletic dreams without fear or limitation. She believes that every female athlete deserves respect, support, and the right to compete on equal ground.

Omar Hegazy

Adventurer & Guinness World Records Holder | Board Member, NCCM

Omar Hegazy is an adventurer, a record-breaking athlete, and a passionate advocate for perseverance and purpose. He holds three Guinness World Records and serves as a board member at the NCCM. Known for his resilience and bold spirit, Omar has turned personal adversity into a powerful journey of achievement and impact. He continues to inspire others through his story, proving that with the right mindset, no goal is out of reach.

Omar Mohamed

High-School Student

Omar Mohamed is a high school student with a strong interest in innovation, leadership, and social change. He is inspired by young individuals who have dared to challenge the status quo and make a lasting impact on the world. Whether in technology, culture, or activism, Omar believes that age should never limit ambition or influence. He is passionate about encouraging his peers to think boldly, act purposefully, and become agents of change in their own communities.

Yasser Sadek

Professor of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University

Prof. Dr. Yasser Sadek is a Professor of Cardiology at the Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, with extensive expertise in the catheter-based treatment of complex heart valve and arterial diseases. He is a recognized member of the Egyptian, European, and American Societies of Cardiology and a Fellow of San Matteo University in Italy. With decades of clinical and academic experience, Dr. Sadek is deeply committed to advancing cardiovascular health and raising awareness about risk factors affecting youth. His work bridges cutting-edge medical practice with public health advocacy to promote long-term heart wellness.

Youssef Khedr

High-School Student

Youssef Khedr is a high school student with a deep interest in self-awareness, personal growth, and the search for authenticity. Known for his reflective thinking, he often explores the internal struggles many young people face while trying to fit in and meet external expectations. Youssef draws from his own experiences to better understand the importance of living with intention and embracing one’s true self. He is passionate about encouraging others to question, reflect, and choose their path with honesty and courage.