The talk explored how personal success can be redefined through (KPI) "Kind Performance Indicators" values like empathy, integrity, and inner growth rather than external accomplishments. It highlighted the importance of using one’s inner compass to make meaningful choices and lead with authenticity. By sharing experiences of navigating work and life challenges, the speaker emphasized that true strength comes from staying grounded in one’s values amidst pressure. Asst. Prof. Dr. Vildan Esenyel is a leadership expert, business consultant, and faculty member at Bahçeşehir Cyprus University. She is the founding coordinator of GETI (Global Expertise Training Initiative), an initiative of BAU Cyprus that bridges academia and the business world through strategic training and consultancy. With over 25 years of practical experience in Turkey, North Cyprus, and the UK—including more than a decade in senior management roles—she brings real-world insight into everything she teaches and builds. She has published articles and book chapters on leadership, strategy, and organizational behavior. Passionate about empowering future leaders, she is dedicated to helping individuals and institutions grow with purpose, vision, and impact. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

In his TEDxYouth@DAA talk, Lucas will discuss why it is important to protect our oceans. By talking about his personal experiences as a diver, he will explore how humans disrupt and kill many marine species with the use of a deadly material, plastic. Lucas also shares the dark truth of what happens to our oceans if we continue down this path. He asks why we need to protect our oceans? Why must we all care about this vital, life-sustaining part of our planet? His message is clear; our oceans need us now more than ever, we must act now! Lucas is 13 and from Lebanon. He is passionate about diving and cares about the oceans. He is an experienced diver of a year and a half, and he has seen many marine animals with plastic on them and in their mouths. It isn't a great sight to see. He has seen everything in diving. The good, and the bad. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

In this talk, the idea that progress is only measured by numbers and outdated benchmarks was challenged. Too often, the systems we trust overlook the most vital element in any learning environment the human being. It's time for educational institutions to rethink what success really looks like. It’s not just about grades or ticking boxes in a classroom. It’s about recognizing the voices, the efforts, and the real contributions of students beyond the four walls." Prof. Dr. Esra Hatipoğlu is the current Rector of Bahçeşehir University and an esteemed academic in Political Science, International Relations, and European Studies. A graduate of Kadıköy Anatolian High School, she earned her Bachelor's from Marmara University, completed Master’s degrees in Economics (Anadolu University) and European Studies (Marmara University), and specialized in Post-Soviet Studies at the London School of Economics. She holds a Ph.D. in European Studies from Marmara University. Prof. Hatipoğlu has represented Türkiye in international election observation missions in countries like Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova through the OSCE. She has coordinated numerous national and EU-supported academic projects and taught the Jean Monnet–funded course “EU Enlargement and Eurasia." Her work has earned her prestigious scholarships and awards, including the Jean Monnet Scholarship, UN Nippon Fellowship, and Marmara University Excellence Award. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Women face a surplus of avoidable challenges every day. This TEDxYouth@DAA talk presents this major current issue with a metaphor about a dream, a dream all women have; to overcome the confines that limit space for women, their ambitions, and their goals. Referencing powerful female figures such as Kamala Harris, Michelle Obama, and Mindy Kaling, she explores the commonality of obstacles and societal expectations due to gender. Drawing on Social Learning Theory and Judith Butler’s concept of Gender Performativity, she examines how deeply ingrained narratives can be challenged through the science of neuroscience and neuroplasticity. Srinedhi reimagines a future where women are not only allowed to dream, but are empowered to reshape the world through them. Srinedhi Suresh is an 8th grader who has an interest in exploring the depth of society, identity, and equality. As she has been surrounded by many cultural experiences throughout her life she has developed a curiosity on equality especially regarding the roles and expectations placed upon women. Her experiences have shaped the way she sees the world and wants to remove the societal norms that dim our potential. She is grounded in finding the freedom for our dreams and hopes to ignite others' potential. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

In their TEDxYouth@DAA talk, Rayan and Faris delve into the ongoing debate between combustion engines and electric vehicles (EVs). As car enthusiasts, they highlight the performance of combustion engines and acknowledge the environmental benefits of EVs. Exploring how innovations like synthetic fuels and hybrid technology are transforming traditional engines, arguing that evolving, not abandoning, the combustion engine offers a more balanced and sustainable path forward. This debate is evolving; the ‘right’ choice may not align with the majority's beliefs, but what best evolves to fit today's needs. Rayan Mian is a 9th grader from Pakistan, who is interested in research-based projects about cars, and was inspired by his brother to begin learning about these fascinating vehicles at age 5.Faris Foroutani comes from a Lebanese-Iranian family, carrying down the interest of cars from his dad. He is interested in mechanical engineering in the field of electric and fuel-powered vehicles. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Throughout Madalena’s TEDxYouth@DAA talk, she explores the abstract concept of time, investigating how our lives would look like 'If Only We Had More Time'. She challenges the common idea that "we don't have enough time", accentuating its power. Madalena claims that while the idea of having more time seems attractive in the short run, essentially, in the long-run, having more time would not solve our problems. Ultimately, she argues that the lack of time allows us to (1) work more efficiently, (2) value our surroundings and people around us more, as well as (3) develop our brain. Maria Madalena is a Senior at Dubai American Academy taking the full IB Diploma. Although she is Portuguese, she has lived in several countries around the world. Madalena aspires to be a Biomedical Engineer, however her life extends far beyond her academics. From being a Varsity Athlete to President of the Math Honors Society, she is often faced with the challenge of managing her activities and academics, while remaining connected (daily) to her family - something she deeply values. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx