Theme: Roots and Wings: From inner voice to mind and motivation

In this inspiring edition of TEDxYouth@GMIS, students take the stage to explore powerful questions and bold ideas that matter to their generation. From challenging the traditional role of grades in defining success, to rethinking motivation, mindset, and mental well-being, each speaker offers a unique lens into the complexities of growing up in today's world. The talks dive deep into topics such as the fading appreciation of music as an art form, the underestimated value of silence, and the often conflicting relationship we have with our own minds. Whether it's about redefining beauty and intelligence, or recognizing the power of words and inner voices, this event is a celebration of youth perspectives that are raw, thoughtful, and forward-thinking.

Together, these talks form a mosaic of ideas that challenge norms, spark reflection, and ignite change—one voice at a time

Gandhi Memorial Intercontinental School
Jl. HBR Motik Blok D6 No.Kav 1, Pademangan Tim., Pademangan, Kota Jakarta Utara, Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta
Jakarta, Jakarta Raya, 10630
Indonesia

Antonio Maria Enrique Quiano Castro

Student

Antonio Maria Enrique Quiano Castro or “Neo” is an IBDP from the Philippines who was born in Indonesia and studied at GMIS, Jakarta. Neo aims to pursue a career in Film and Music respectively and has very passionate opinions about the state of how music is being treated in the mainstream in this day and age, and how the general appreciation of the beauty of music as an art is diminishing.

Aryan Singhal

Student

Aryan describes his brain as one that never shuts up. He’s here to share a personal and honest perspective on what it’s like to live with an overthinking mind — and how he’s learned to turn what seemed like a flaw into a strength. Please welcome to the stage, with his talk “My Mind Never Shuts Up… and I’m Glad,”

Gayoung Park

Student

Gayoung Park, who goes by the name Stella, is a Year 1 IBDP student at GMIS Jakarta. Born in Seoul, South Korea, she moved to Jakarta at a young age and has spent most of her life there. As a teenager navigating an increasingly digital world, she observes how words, offline and online, have become weapons leaving harm. This reflection brings her to an essential question: How do we control our words? In her talk, Stella explores the theme: “Words Hold Power, We Are the Giver.” Because in a world where every comment can echo, we must remember that every word we speak carries weight—and we have the power to choose how to use it.

Gurleenjit Kaur

Student

Gurleenjit like many of us, struggled to find direction during the mental difficulties that followed quarantine. Through moments of self-doubt, quiet breakthroughs, and the support of driven friends, Gurleenjit began reshaping her mindset bit by bit to a progressive and bulletproof mentality. Today, she is here to share a personal story about failure, growth, and the reality behind the barriers withholding us from achieving this level of progression.

Ha Bao Chau

Student of grade 9

Ho Bao Chau, a Grade 9 student at Gandhi Memorial Intercontinental School, Jakarta, is a Vietnamese national who stands out for her logical thinking, confidence, and strong communication skills. Her ability to express ideas clearly and thoughtfully makes her a valuable voice among her peers. Bao possesses a remarkable talent for articulating her thoughts in a way that captures the attention of her audience. Today, she is here to share her views on a topic that resonates with many of us: "Do Grades — and Should They — Make or Break a Student's Life?" It’s a question we’ve all pondered at some point. Now, let’s explore Bao's unique perspective on this important issue.

Nicole Reinara Oscar

Student

Meet Nicole Reinara Oscar — a 16-year-old aspiring artist and creative entrepreneur. With insight and relatability, Nicole challenges norms and encourages others to pursue their dreams. She lives by the quote, “Do what you love and love what you do.” Today, she takes the TEDx stage to speak not just from experience, but from the heart.

Rolee Bakshi

Student

Meet Rolee, a passionate advocate for the power of silence in a world that often celebrates noise. Drawing from personal experiences, she explores how quiet moments can lead to profound self-discovery and growth. Today, she invites us to reconsider our perceptions of silence and recognise its value in our lives.

Soham Nandwani

Student

Meet Soham Nandwani, a thoughtful and determined 15-year-old who knows that waiting for motivation often means never starting at all. He’s the kind of person who leans into challenges quietly but persistently, showing up even when it’s hard or boring. Today, he’s here to share a powerful idea, that action doesn’t follow motivation, motivation follows action.

Veera Kirpalani

Student

Veera, is passionate for computer science and public speaking. She values quiet moments for self-introspection and prioritizes voluntary service, believing small acts build character and gratitude. Guided by the motto, “Don’t let a moment define you. You define the moment,” She tackles challenges with positivity and purpose. With a curious mind and kind heart, she is ready to shape the future with confidence and compassion.