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).

Old Scona Academic
10523 84 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta, T6R 0P1
Canada

Adelyn Noh

Student

As a grade 10 student at Old Scona, Adelyn is passionate about sharing unique philosophy and offering new perspectives. Throughout her life she has always enjoyed trying out new things and has ended up with more hobbies than she can count. She's "hooked" on her pastimes like fishing in the summer, reading poetry, and biking down mountain trails. Her TedEx speech explores the craving behind adventure and how pressure can create a paradox in one of the philosophy's greatest ideas. Instead of living mundanely, she hopes to encourage an outlook on life that expresses adventure's liberties.

Alexander Melnikov

Student

I'm Alexander Melnikov, and I am currently in my first year at Old Scona. While not doing schoolwork, I like to think about mathematics, philosophy and history. I also enjoy reading books.

Hajira Penukonda

Student

Hajira Penukonda is a grade 10 student at Old Scona Academic and is involved in various activities, both at school and in the community. She has a love for reading, and listens to all sorts of music in her free time. Whether it's participating in Reach for the Top or engaging in Debate, she enjoys tackling new challenges and developing her skills. With a strong interest in leadership and STEM, Hajira is always curious to explore new ideas and is passionate about making a positive impact through both learning and innovation. In her speech, she emphasizes that adventure doesn’t have to be ‘grand’ or ‘risky’, but can be personal and local, shaped by individual interests. She explores adventure as a mindset of pursuing exciting, new challenges, whether big or small and presents a method for success in pursuing adventure.

Sofia Ala Vargas

Student

Sofia Ala Vargas is a dedicated and intellectually curious student from Alberta, Canada, with a strong passion for critically engaging with complex and thought-provoking issues. She actively nurtures this interest at Old Scona Academic, where she works hard both academically and in various other commitments, such as debate. Beyond her academic pursuits, she channels creativity in activities such as the art of pastry-making, a deep appreciation for French culture and language, and extracurricuars such as competitive fencing. When not immersed in her studies or extracurriculars, Sofia devotes much of her time to her true passion: physics. Through research, reading, and a keen interest in exploring the intersection of physics and philosophy, she continually seeks to broaden her understanding of the world’s most profound concepts.

Sristuthi Kammar

Student

"Sristuthi Kammar is a dedicated Grade 10 student at Old Scona Academic. She has a deep passion for all things STEM and a true love for reading novels. Among the many novels and stories she has read, The Wizard of Oz remains particularly impactful. A key element of the story that resonates with her is the Yellow Brick Road, which she will be discussing in relation to the importance of stepping outside one’s comfort zone. As a high school student herself, she understands firsthand the hesitation that often accompanies new experiences and challenges. She also enjoys writing speeches and stories, playing the guitar, and tutoring students. Having lived in three continents (Asia, Oceania, North America) she also loves going to new places!"

William Ye

Student

"William Ye is an enthusiastic and driven Grade 10 student at Old Scona Academic. A dedicated athlete, he has played on both the Varsity Men’s Volleyball and Varsity Men’s Basketball teams, where he has learned the value of adaptability and resilience. His passion for public speaking has led him to attend numerous speech and debate tournaments, where he developed a deep appreciation for the power of communication in connecting people.

Zidaan Virani

Student

As a tenth grade student at Old Scona Academic, Zidaan spends most of his time debating and public speaking at a provincial and national level, as well as playing competitive basketball. With a keen interest in world affairs and pluralism, Zidaan enjoys sharing ideas that inspire and challenge perspectives. Throughout his talk, Zidaan will explore how the way we communicate with babies holds the key to bridging divides and strengthening human connection; because when our differences are respected and valued, our societies thrive.