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).

University of Central Asia
310 Lenin Street
Naryn, Naryn, 722918
Kyrgyzstan

Alif Khalfan

Technology

Alif Khalfan evaluates new technologies from start-ups around the world for partnerships and investment. He spent the past eight years as Vice President within Disney's Parks, Experiences, and Products segment, joining the company through the acquisition of social gaming start-up Playdom in 2010. While at Playdom, Alif helped the business expand from 50 to over 500 employees worldwide. Prior to serving with Playdom, he enjoyed a business-focused entrepreneurial lifestyle, working for Goldman Sachs and several start-up companies before founding a money-management software company of his own. He actively engages in the start-up community, including as Tech Advisor to professional basketball player Metta World Peace and advisor to a handful of early stage start-up companies. A lifelong community servant and athlete, He is currently serving as Chairman for the Western US on the Aga Khan Education Board and holds a B.S. in Computer Science from Stanford University.

Soheil Ashrafi

Dr. Soheil Ashrafi - the Chair of the Communications and Media department, Associate Dean and an Assistant Professor of Communications and Media at the University of Central Asia, Naryn Campus. Prior to joining UCA, Dr. Ashrafi was Director of Culture and Communications and Chair of Research and Scholarship at Raffles College of Design and Commerce, in Sydney, and Associate Colleges in Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, India and Sri Lanka.

Zarastin Kholbash

Communications | Modeling

Zarastin Kholbash - a Senior student (2022) at the University of Central Asia majoring in Communications and Media. Zarastin describes herself as a “perfectly imperfect” individual who is enthusiastic and an active member of the UCA community. She is a debater, a model and a volunteer.