Theme: Borders

Our theme "Borders" revolves around showcasing the message that transcending boundaries instigates change. Our brilliant speakers will explore the prevalence of borders worldwide whether that be political, social or technological and share their range of ideas and experiences that highlight the impact of these borders on our lives.

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).

Franconian International School Theatre
Marie-Curie-Straße 2
Erlangen, Bayern, 91052
Germany

Abhiraam Iyer

Student

A passionate finance and technology enthusiast, Abhi has had a wide array of experiences within the industries through internships and personal interest. The interest for the world of virtual and augmented reality was sparked from the introduction of the google cardboard boxes which enabled users to use 2 simple lenses coupled with a cardboard construction to view videos as if they were in the virtual world. Now equipped with more technology knowledge he is ready to explore the world of virtual and augmented reality and its impacts with YOU! Get ready for an exciting and captivating discussion on the borders between reality and virtual reality! Embark on a journey where reality meets the virtual frontier – with Abhi, discover the extraordinary possibilities that await.

Bujinlkham Erdenesuren

Exchange Student

Bujinlkham is a 12 grade student in Mongolia selected for an exchange program between Franconian International School and Bookbridge Arvaikheer. Through her participation in several community projects starting from helping run a speaking club and sewing bags to decrease plastic usage, she has built a great deal of aspiration for working with people. She has also delivered a speech “Plastic Free” at a Youth Waves speaking event. Her talk intends to address the mental border individuals set between things they can and cannot achieve. Furthermore, she aims to mention how destroying this border can help us accomplish what we aspire to be.

Corrine Tucker

Teacher

Corrine Tucker is the owner of Let Them Learn, an international human rights educational consultancy start-up. After many years in education, Ms Tucker has now dedicated herself to implementing human rights education through workshops and training for students and teachers, worldwide. Her message is clear: we all have value and through a human rights framework, we can better address the inequalities that exist in society which devalue us. She will discuss the issues that human rights frameworks allow us to address around imagined borders which help to connect with one another instead of remaining divided.

Gunjidlkham Oyun-Erdene

Exchange Student

Gunjidlkham Oyun-Erdene is a 16-year-old from Mongolia selected for the Exchange Program 2024 between FIS and Bookbridge Arvaikheer. She holds a boundless enthusiasm for business and management, which she aspires to pursue as her future career. Her talk discusses the borders between rural and urban areas in Mongolia and the importance of breaking down its divides. She aims to explore how these borders impact people's mindset, opportunities, lifestyle, and the country's development.

Isabella Koestler

Student

Isabella Koestler is a 16-year-old student, passionate about the global world of history, politics, and injustices. Inspired to make a change, she teaches anti-bullying lessons for grades 1-3, helping children confront bullying in their own lives. After working on this project, she began identifying basic human behavioral psychology, applying it in varying scales, and drawing parallels to different power dynamics under repressive regimes. Her talk will focus on these foundational behaviors, drawing to light how despite our different circumstances we can experience and exhibit similar tendencies.

Phoenix Chaney

Student

Enjoying creating art, writing stories, and participating in MUN debates, Phoenix's topic revolves around invisible borders — the ones we often overlook. Delving into redlining and the aftereffects of the fall of the Berlin Wall, she explores the impact of such borders on culture, community, and most importantly, the individuals themselves.

Reham Shalaan

Pharmacist

Reham Shalaan is a highly enthusiastic STEM researcher, pharmacist and founder of Rehub NGO Initiative. Her exceptional achievements include winning 5th place in the 3rd International Women in Science Competition 2019 for her project on detecting HCV. Additionally, she secured 2nd place in the Abu-Dhabi University Research Competition 2022 in the field of innovation for her green chemistry project on recycling industrial wastewater. Miss Shalaan's passion for sustainability led her to volunteer with Youthinkgreen Egypt, which inspired her to create the Rehub initiatives idea to connect all backgrounds to sustainability for a green world. Through her participation in various conferences and stages, she actively spreads awareness about her Rehub initiative and will be sharing some intriguing ideas about Implementation Science.

Uliana Nesterkina

Student

Uliana Nesterkina is a Grade 10 student with a particular interest for mathematics but also a curiosity and enthusiasm for politics. Her talk combines the two, showing the application of mathematics where least expected and urging for the regulation of political affairs in hopes of a fairer democratic approach.

Victoria Gollogly

Student

Victoria, an 11th grade student, has parents from immigrant families. While growing up in different places around the world, she felt a strong passion and pride build for her background; understanding further about herself and her family. Now, through her talk, Victoria aims to not only educate but also inspire those around her to be less judgemental and to face personal prejudices. If you are prepared to open your mind and later leave the room judgment-free, then join Victoria in her talk and the journey to inclusivity!