Save the date
18th January 2025
ABOUT OUR EVENT
Our event is called TEDx STS DWARKA YOUTH, where x = independently organized TED event. At our TEDx STS DWARKA YOUTH event, TED Talks video and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events, including ours, are self-organized.
About us
A LITTLE VIEW ABOUT our mission
St. Thomas’ School, Dwarka is a progressive educational institution that believes it is not the imagination which makes one achieve big goals but hard work, persistence and honesty which leads to the accomplishments of the bigger goals. The school strives to be amongst the venerated centres of world-class education to foster academic excellence, physical fitness, and social consciousness. Our philosophy is to develop a caring community, exercising concern and respect for the welfare of others and emphasizing the overriding importance of sensitivity, tolerance, and goodwill.
Our school motto ‘Light to Lighten’ in an elaborate manner emphasizes and projects the school as the servant of the community and to accept its appropriate share of responsibility for equipping our future generation to find their own niche in not just their occupation but in the society as well.
We seek to provide the most effective education through a broad range of experiences in and beyond school. The school will contribute largely in organizing this event and make it a success. The support from management, faculty and the students will make it a memorable experience.
Venue
St. Thomas' School, Dwarka
Near Sector19, Dwarka, New Delhi – 110071
- tedxstsdwarka@gmail.com
our THEME
'Breaking Down the Barriers;A Journey Towards Self-Growth and Fulfilment'
In a world full of expectations and limitations, it can be easy to feel trapped by barriers that hold us back from reaching our true potential. These barriers might be external—like societal pressures, financial challenges, or lack of opportunities—or internal, like self-doubt, fear of failure, or uncertainty about the future. Breaking these barriers is the first step in reclaiming your path to personal fulfilment. The journey may be challenging, but it is also deeply rewarding, and the transformation begins when you decide to take that first bold step. This first step is not just a step; it is a leap of faith that will encourage and motivate you to continue your journey.
True self-growth is not a destination but a continuous process of evolution. It requires us to look inward, challenge our limiting beliefs, and cultivate a mindset of learning and resilience. As we confront the obstacles, we develop the strength and wisdom to rise above them. Each barrier we overcome is a testament to our ability to adapt, grow, and succeed. Every step forward, no matter how small, brings us closer to a more fulfilled, empowered version of ourselves.
This journey is uniquely personal. The path to growth and fulfilment will look different for each of us, shaped by our individual experiences, goals, and aspirations. Whether building confidence, seeking inner peace, or discovering a new passion, the common thread is the commitment to ongoing improvement. Along the way, we learn to let go of the past, embrace the present, and envision a brighter future. It is not about perfection but progress—a journey marked by self-discovery and an openness to new possibilities.
Breaking down barriers also requires support and connection. Surrounding yourself with positive influences and like-minded people can make a world of difference. We are not meant to walk this path alone. By sharing our stories, encouraging others, and learning from each other’s experiences, we build a community of strength and inspiration. Together, we can break free from the limitations that hold us back and create an environment where everyone is empowered to achieve their dreams. This sense of community will make you feel supported and connected, enhancing your personal growth journey.
You are ultimately pursuing self-growth, which leads to a life of deeper meaning and fulfilment. It is about stepping outside your comfort zone, daring to dream bigger, and believing in your ability to make those dreams a reality. The journey toward fulfilment is not always easy but worth every effort. With each barrier you break, you transform your life and inspire others to do the same. Let this be your moment to start the journey—to break through, grow, and fulfil your most tremendous potential.
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, TED Talks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection. 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.)
About ted
TED is a non-profit organization devoted to ‘Ideas Worth Spreading,’ often in the form of short talks delivered by leading thinkers and doers. Many of these talks are given at TED Conferences, intimate TED Salons, and thousands of independently organised TEDx events around the world. Videos of these talks are made available, free, on TED.com and other platforms. Audio versions of TED Talks are published to TED Talks Daily, available on all podcast platforms. TED’s open and free initiatives for spreading ideas include TED.com, where new TED Talk videos are posted daily; TEDx, which licenses thousands of individuals and groups to host local, self-organized TED-style events around the world; the TED Fellows program, which selects innovators from around the globe to amplify the impact of their remarkable projects and activities; The Audacious Project, which surfaces and funds critical ideas that have the potential to impact millions of lives; TED Translators Program, which crowdsources the subtitling of TED Talks so that big ideas can spread across languages and borders; and the educational initiative TED-Ed. TED also offers TED@ Work, a program that reimagines TED Talks for workplace learning. TED also has a growing library of original podcasts, including The TED Interview with Chris Anderson, Work Life with Adam Grant, Far Flung with Saleem Reshamwala and How to Be a Better Human. Follow TED on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and on LinkedIn.
WHAT IS
In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TED has created a program called TEDx. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience.
tedx Team
MENEKA I. SINGH
ORGANIZER
She is the Head of School of St. Thomas’ School, Dwarka. As a leader, she strongly believes in establishing a culture in school that is conducive to learning for both teachers and students. She is dedicated to facilitating students leapfrog into the 21st century as independent intellectuals, imbibing traits of initiative and leadership to help them evolve into global citizens. Under her able guidance, the school has won innumerable accolades and achievements.
SAGAR JAGGI
TEAM MEMBER
Energetic educator wishing to leverage his passion for Political Science and igniting interest to inspire students and interest in the subject. He is the Head of the Social Science Department, a gold- medalist, and an author of four books written for class XII.
PALLAVI JHA
TEAM MEMBER
A passionate English educator who believes in imparting her knowledge skills to the best of her abilities. With over eight years of teaching experience, she aims to make learning fun, interesting and interactive. She has a deep passion for creative and academic writing which is also her forte.
executive speakers & Performers
meet our SPEAKERS AND PERFORMERS
About SUSHMITA MUKHERJEE
Sushmita Mukherjee is an actor. A post graduate in English Literature from Delhi University‘a Miranda House, followed by a 3 year course at the National School of Drama, she has done pioneering work in her 40 year long career in theatre, films and television. She has acted in over 100 films in English, Hindi, Bengali and has worked with Oscar winning director Jeffrey D. Brown in his Hollywood film ‘Sold’ She has acted in scores of television shows starting with Doordarshan’s mega hit serial Karamchand where she assayed the role of the iconic Kitty.
In 1988 she started her theatre group Naatak Coompany which is active till date.
She has written 2 original plays, Natti and Naaribai , (a solo , )which she has directed and also performs till date.
In 1998 she joined her husband, Raja Bundela’s media house Prayaas Productions ,as creative Director and they went on to produce many Tv shows for Zee, Sony, NEPC etc. With Raja on the direction seat, they co- produced Pratha( starring Irfan Khan) Bundeli film’ Kisne bharmaya mere Lakhan ko’( starring Darshan Kumar of Kashmir files) and their company were the line producers of ‘ Holly wood film ‘That game of chess’, ‘ Dil to deewana hai’, and ‘Alex Hindustani’( starring Om Puri, kulbhushan Kharbanda)
Sushmita , while raising her sons also did a course in Steiner education as part of the Waldorf system of education and her sons were the second batch of ‘Tridha,’ students,one of the earliest reputed Waldorf schools in India.
In 2010 she started her non profit, Rudraani Kalgram Evam shodh sansthan in Orccha, Madhya Pradesh to help marginalised women and children . For some time she even ran a school there for the children of the staff. She helped local artists and artisans to showcase their skills and connected them to national and international buyers through haat bazaars and melas. Today Rudraani hosts and organises Literature festivals, Ram Mahotsav and is sister company to the 9 year old Khajuraho International Film Festival organised by Raja Bundela and Prayaas Productions.
She has 4 published books.
Me&Juhibaby published in 2018 by Speaking Tiger.
This was followed by by Baanjh which was critically acclaimed and has been translated into Hindi. The Bengali translation is slated to be out soon.
She received senior fellowship from CCRT, government of India and created a premium coffee table book BraveArts of Bundelkhand on the arts struggling to find a space in today’s digital times.
This was followed by Khajuraho Conundrum which is based on a story written by her husband.
Currently she is in the process of completing her fifth book.
She also offers her services as Professor of Practice at a premier University in India.
SUSHMITA MUKHERJEE
About RUMIT WALIA
He is a creative environmentalist and peace builder who embarked on my planet-saving journey at twelve. Growing up with a farming background, he developed a deep connection with nature. With over a decade of experience managing programs and nonprofit organisations, he has moderated numerous national and international conferences, events, panels, and podcasts. He was the youngest participant in the 2024 Environmental Engagement and Economy group for the Indo-Pacific of the State Department’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). He is involved with Russia’s World Youth Festival Directorate, advocating for Dialogue, Peace and Culture. He manages Youth Affairs at Earth Day Network and is an Advisor to several Youth Organisations.
RUMIT WALIA
SITENDER SEHRAWAT
About SITENDER SEHRAWAT
He is a former monk, social entrepreneur, and United Nations volunteer and mentor dedicated to reimagining how humanity addresses loneliness and emotional suffering. He is the visionary founder of ‘Antaha LLC’, an organisation on a mission to end loneliness globally by helping individuals connect with their inner selves before seeking connections with the outer world. His work bridges ancient wisdom with modern understanding, offering a groundbreaking approach to belonging; self-awareness as the foundation for a meaningful life.
About ANIMESH KAPOOR
He is the Eco Roots Foundation’s trustee and chief ‘Think Tank’. His work experience spans sixteen years, from corporate to NGO. He is actively involved in environmental protection and wildlife conservation. He has conducted multiple workshops to promote biodiversity conservation and established medicinal nurseries and gardens focusing on native plants.
ANIMESH KAPOOR
About ALKA AMIN
She is an Indian film, theatre, and television actress who graduated from the National School of Drama, a regional acting institute. She is widely known for her performances in films such as Badhaai Ho, Dum Laga Ke Haisha, Luka Chuppi, Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana, Khajoor Pe Atke, and many more.
ALKA AMIN
RAMAN KANT
About RAMAN KANT
He is called the ‘Riverman of India’ and is a National Water Awardee. He is the president of Bhartiya Nadi Parishad and the founder of NEER Foundation. He is also a member of the Uttar Pradesh State Ganga Committee. He has been engaged in water conservation, environmental protection and river revitalisation since 2001. Through the NEER Foundation, a complete report, ‘Paani Ghano Anmol,’ has been prepared by calculating the natural water sources. More than 400 ponds have been revived, and more than 250 models of rainwater conservation have been made. He is actively engaged in C 20, an associate group of G20 organised in India for river and water issues. A Bollywood film was made being influenced by his life, ‘Ek Ank’. He has received various international awards too.
About ARNOLD
Hailing from Punjab, he fell in love with bodybuilding at 13 when he started working at the local gym. He scooped his first title – ‘Mr Gold’ – the same year, but his dreams of turning professional received a massive blow when he was diagnosed with cancer in his lower spinal cord at age fifteen. The muscle man underwent a string of operations that left him paralysed, and for the next three years, he could barely leave his bed. Unable to attend school, he took up bodybuilding again – this time with greater zeal – and began entering contests despite his disability. After the cancer treatment, he began with bodybuilding at eighteen.
Anand Arnold is a name that has made India proud on more than just one occasion. Known as the ‘Indian Arnold’, he is India’s first and only bodybuilder who uses a wheelchair. He proved to the world that no handicap can keep you away from your dreams. Despite being paralysed from the waist down, he decided to hit the gym and make bodybuilding his profession. He has won over 50 bodybuilding titles, including the ‘Mr World’ title in Lithuania, a Gold Medal and a Bronze medal in ‘Mr Olympia’ 2018 and 2021, and
Silver Medal in ‘Toronto Pro Super Show – 2019’. He is the first paid Indian sports model for ‘Muscle Mania’, a brand ambassador for a nutrition supplement company, and a model for a range of popular action toys. Besides this, he has also acted in Telugu films, and a biopic has also been made on him. He has also participated in ‘India’s Got Talent’ and ‘South India Got Talent’. Recently, he was awarded the title of ‘Mr. Olympia, USA’. He has also appeared on a famous food show in the USA. Currently, a Bollywood commercial biopic is under production.
