Theme: Foresight in Education

The theme Foresight in Education emphasizes the urgent need to reimagine learning in a rapidly evolving world. This event will delve into the ways technology reshapes how knowledge is shared, explore the creation of flexible and inclusive educational environments, and present solutions to the global challenges of our time. Speakers will offer diverse perspectives on leveraging technological advancements, designing spaces that nurture innovation, and implementing systems that prioritize sustainability and equity. These forward-looking ideas aim to prepare young minds to thrive in an increasingly complex global landscape.

TEDˣ Questfield Intl College Youth also reflects our commitment to holistic education, which goes beyond academics to nurture social responsibility, adaptability, and lifelong curiosity. Questfield’s philosophy of learning celebrates the unique potential of every student and encourages them to explore both local and global perspectives. Hosting this TEDx event reinforces our dedication to equipping young individuals with the skills and mindsets needed to contribute meaningfully to society. Through an engaging mix of talks and performances, participants will explore the intersection of education, technology, and social impact, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas.

This TEDx event is not just a conference but a celebration of the transformative power of ideas. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with inspiring speakers, network with like-minded individuals, and gain insights that challenge conventional thinking. Questfield International College envisions this day as a stepping stone for its community to embrace bold visions and actionable strategies for the future. TEDˣ Questfield Intl College Youth is more than an event—it is a call to action for educators, students, and innovators to shape an education system that is inclusive, forward-thinking, and prepared for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

ARCUB Gabroveni
Str. Lipscani nr. 84 – 90
Bucharest, București, 030037
Romania

Alexandru Duică

Student

Alex is a Year 8 student at Questfield International College – a fast thinker, curious mind and detail-seeker who never settles for easy answers. With top academic results, he’s passionate about science, math, and technology, and is equally energized by a good debate or a spirited cycling race or basketball game.

Ana Maria Goilav

Architect

Is a practicing architect and researcher, associate professor at the Ion Mincu University of Architecture and Urban Planning. Together with Petre Guran, a researcher at the Romanian Academy’s Institute of South-East European Studies and Doctor in the history of civilizations at EHESS Paris, she co-founded 17 years ago the School of Buneşti, a college of architecture and liberal arts, where they apply principles of green architecture and sustainable development aligned with the rural cultural landscape. She also cofounded Arheia (2020), a project offering classical education to pupils aged 6 to 18. Ana Maria has published scientific articles in national and international journals and co-authored the book Acasă. Şcoala de la Buneşti. Oameni, cărţi, case (Home. The School of Buneşti. People, Books, Houses), published in 2017 by UAUIM. She holds a PhD in Church Architecture (2011, UAUIM).

Ana Maria Pălăduș

Sustainability expert

Ana-Maria Pălăduș is an economist with a Master’s in International Economic Relations from Sciences Po, Paris. She co-founded REPER21 in 2006 to promote sustainable development in Romania, focusing on projects like climate education and green procurement. Since 2023, she has managed the European Climate Pact in Romania. Ana-Maria also co-founded GAL Turnu21, an urban Local Action Group, and advocates for "climate parenting," raising awareness about climate change's impact on child-rearing. She has trained over 1,000 individuals on sustainability topics nationwide.

Andrei Bălan

Communication strategist and data scientist

Sociologist, Anthropology PhD and an internationally awarded communication strategist and data scientist having designed campaigns for some of the biggest global brands. Founder of Romania’s first Communication Strategy Studio. Also a Master’s teacher of Digital Consumer Behavior, awarded 2024 Associate Professor of the Year at the University of Bucharest. Photographic explorer of some of the farthest places in the world, from Tibet to Amazonian jungles and Patagonia, and also a curious explorer of digital worlds and late-night gamer. Passionately in love with psychology and neuroscience, and soon-to-become Psychologist. Having practiced sports pretty much daily for the past 25 years.

Andrei Lascu

Game Tech Executive

Andrei Lascu is a tech executive with 18 years of leadership experience in the game development industry. Having managed large, multicultural teams across four countries for game development & publishing companies such as Gameloft and Voodoo, he brings a deep understanding of gamification, user experience design and operational excellence. Andrei is a passionate advocate for gamification in learning. His experience in game development and mobile apps has shaped his belief that education should be as engaging and immersive as the best-designed games. At TEDx Questfield, Andrei will explore how principles from game design and UX can revolutionize education, making learning more effective, relevant, and fun.

Andruni Baciu

Student

I have always surrounded myself with the arts, whether through poetry, music, or theatre. As a high school student, I have chosen to pursue this passion by embarking on a journey meant to prepare me for the fascinating world of cultural management. I therefore consider it part of my purpose to raise awareness about the role the arts play in our lives, as well as their impact on each and every one of us.

Annabelle Vinatoru

Student

As an 8th-grade student at Questfield International College, I am eager to embrace new challenges and opportunities. Currently 14 years and 11 months old, I will turn 15 in April 2025. Born and raised in Bucharest, I have always been passionate about communication, which is why TEDx felt like the perfect opportunity to explore this passion further. Throughout my school experience, teachers and peers have consistently recognized my strengths in presentation, oral communication, and argumentation. These skills define me, and I am determined to refine them even further as I work toward my goal of becoming a trial lawyer. Beyond academics, traveling, meeting new people, reading, drawing, and mathematics bring me great joy. I also deeply value the time spent with my loved ones and actively seek opportunities for self-discovery and growth.

Carmen Pungă

Global Growth Strategist

Carmen Punga is dedicated to driving data-driven and human creativity for global growth. With over a decade at Google, she has empowered Romanian entrepreneurs, supported startup innovation, and partnered with top tech brands to expand their reach. As Sales Lead of RO LCS, Carmen leads a team of consultants working with advanced businesses in retail, global tech, and regional hubs. Her focus is on fostering strategic partnerships and growing Google’s business in Romania and Bulgaria under the motto “g[RO]w to glow.” Known for sensing trends and creating opportunities, Carmen thrives at the intersection of insights and ingenuity to unlock growth potential.

Charlize Maalouf

Student

Charlize, at 15 years old, has achieved remarkable artistic performances. She was a finalist at Sanremo Junior, won the silver medal at the World Championships of Performing Arts in the USA, and, more recently, was the only child from outside the U.S. selected for a Broadway training program, where she also earned a solo. Following this experience, she performed a solo at His Majesty’s Theatre in London. In Romania, she has played lead roles in all major children’s musicals, including School of Rock, The Sound of Music, Annie, and Madagascar. Other Notable Events: 🎤 Performed with Tom Odell and Nikos Vertis 🎭 Sang at the Buna Vestire Gala at the National Opera 🏆 First place at the Cezar Ouatu Festival (FICCO)

Ciprian Stănescu

Social Entrpreneur

Ciprian Stănescu is a Romanian social entrepreneur and President of Social Innovation Solutions (SIS), an organization focused on empowering individuals and organizations to navigate future transformations and develop sustainable solutions. With 12 years of experience in global organizations like Ashoka and the Aspen Institute, Ciprian is also a Global Shaper Alumni of the World Economic Forum and a Board Member of Rethink Romania. He teaches foresight and sustainability at The Entrepreneurship Academy in Bucharest and has completed executive programs in sustainable finance and circular economy at Harvard Business School and Cambridge Judge Business School. Ciprian holds an MA in Political Science from Central European University and frequently speaks on future trends, sustainability, and social innovation. Since 2023, he has hosted the “Pro Verde” sustainability talk show on Stirile Pro TV.

Diana Stafie

Foresight and Strategy Consultant

Diana is a Strategic Foresight consultant and founder of Future Station, a foresight and strategy consultancy agency that helps organizations to understand changes, spot new trends, spark innovation and prepare for the future. As part of her work as strategist, Diana undertakes solid research and is part of various think tank groups on Future and Transformation topics (such as Certified Coach and Ambassador within the Open ExO Community). She has also been part of the 2019 cohort of International Certified Future Strategist program commissioned by European Commission, and also in the pilot program of Design Futures of the Institute for the Future in Palo Alto. Diana graduated from Professional Foresight program at University of Houston, US. She mentors startups, speaks at conferences and contributes articles to publications interested in the Future.

Dragoș Matei

Student

Dragos’ high school life has been defined by academic debating, a passion that offered him the opportunity to speak about history, politics, geopolitics, and philosophy in a competitive environment. He has been representing the Romanian National Team at international debate competitions for three years, managing to yield his nation the Vice-Champion title at the Euopean Schools Debating Championship for two years in a row, along with other results such as reaching quarters, semifinals and top speaker awards at other tournaments. Nationally, he has won 3 national debate competitions and the National Olympiad. Amongst the subjects that he has debated, one of the most intensely discussed ones has been A.I. and its future impact upon humanity, one that he’ll try to paint a bright picture of in his speech at TedXQuestfield. titlul discursului: “A.I. is replacing us, so what?”

Elena Giavasoglou

Student

Elena is a very kind and friendly person. She is speaking fluently Romanian, English and Greek, studying also French. Elena loves maths and science, being also talented in crafting. She likes swimming and karate. She enjoys travelling, discovering new places, cultures, local food, and flavours. If she had had a magic power, she would make all people happy.

Florin Alexandru Stan

Author, Composer, Professor, Member of the Romanian Writers’ Union

Author of scientific literature in the economic and educational fields, Member of the Romanian Writers’ Union, PhD candidate, and researcher at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies, with over eight years of experience in education within Romania’s leading public and private institutions: University of Bucharest, Bucharest University of Economic Studies, British Council. Currently, he serves as a Global Perspectives professor at Questfield International College. He holds an MBA from the University of Bucharest, as well as degrees in economics and education.

Ingrid Ciurea

Student

Ingrid is an enthusiastic and sociable girl, fun and easy going. She likes to get involved in all sorts of projects and activities that challenge her to demonstrate her great sense of observation, her ability to solve problems, and her leadership skills. She can put great effort when something motivates her in order to achieve the expectations. She is fun, motivated, passionate and not the least competitive. She likes sports, mostly swimming and volleyball and she likes spending time with her friends inventing all sorts of games. Ingrid is still trying to figure out what career to pursue, most likely medicine as her favorite subjects are biology and chemistry.

Ioan Vladimir Brezniceanu

Student

"What if the key to unlocking critical thinking, empathy, and leadership lies in the art of debate? I’m Ioan-Vladimir Brezniceanu, and through years of debating on international stages and coaching national teams, I’ve seen how structured dialogue transforms minds. Whether you’re an educator, student, or simply curious about the future of learning, join me as I will challenge you to rethink the role of debate in education.".

John Antonios

Certified Personal Branding Strategist & Executive Coach

John Antonios is a leadership assessor, speaker, and holistic performance coach who helps individuals and organizations unlock their potential across business, emotional, and physical domains. With expertise in leadership development, behavioral assessment, and personal branding, he empowers professionals to enhance decision-making, influence, and impact. Passionate about human potential, John integrates strategic performance, emotional intelligence, and physical resilience into his coaching. As a fitness enthusiast and advocate for plant-based living, he explores veganism's role in addressing climate change, public health, and sustainable food systems. He also examines how AI and adaptability shape the future of work and leadership. John believes the next era of human potential will be defined by integrating performance, emotional intelligence, well-being, and technology—creating a future where people and the planet thrive.

Karina Jianu

Actor

Karina-Andreea Jianu, born on November 16, 2002, in Botoșani, is a rising star in theatre and film. A 2024 graduate of U.N.A.T.C. I.L. Caragiale Bucharest, where she trained under Professor George Ivașcu, Karina has already made her mark with roles in productions such as Double Fiesta, Iubiri Senile, and Dreptate pentru un Criminal. She has also appeared in short films like Blocada and Noaptea de vineri a Milenei. Currently starring as Ana Popa in the Antena 1 TV series, Karina recently debuted in cinema as Sofi in Hoții de Subiecte (The Subject Thieves), a film about four teenagers navigating the consequences of selling SAT subjects online. Beyond acting, she is passionate about horseback riding, contemporary dance, basketball, and yoga. At TEDx Questfield Intl College Youth, Karina will share her insights on education and ambition, offering a fresh perspective on the skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Miruna Chivulescu

Student

Driven by AI’s game-changing impact, I’m on a mission to spark real change in the world. As Lukas Graham once said in his song “ I know the smallest voices, they can make it major ” that’s my ultimate goal – making the smallest voices impossible to ignore. 2022 – won 1st place in the Script Competition ,, Buftea Studios’’ movie camp June 2022 – 16th place in National Fencing Championship February 2022 – leading role ( Damiana ) in a short film produced by ,,Buftea Studios’’ Academy

Natalia Bolchis

Student

Hi, I’m Natalia, and I’m grateful to be here today to talk about AI in education and my relevance to it as a rising artist. Music has always been a big part of my life. I spent the last five years playing piano, and at the age of 7, I had the chance to perform on Next Star, a TV show that gave me my first taste of performing. That passion for expression led me to new opportunities, like being invited to speak on Radio 7. But beyond music, I’ve also been drawn to exploring big ideas and new perspectives. That’s what led me to attend two CWMUN events in Rome, where I engaged in discussions about global issues and the future. I believe creativity and learning are deeply connected, and AI is shaping both in exciting ways.

Răzvan Duică

Tech Business Leader

Razvan is an experienced business leader with a passion for emerging technologies and their impact on work and education. With international expertise in IT&C across fintech, telecommunications, and national security, he has guided organizations through technological transformations. Holding dual Bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics & Computer Science and Business Economics, along with postgraduate studies at Bucharest Polytechnic University, Razvan continues to expand his knowledge through leadership programs at Oxford University and the University of York. Known for his practical approach and focus on building meaningful relationships, Razvan inspires leaders and students with insights on technology, AI, skill-building, and responsible innovation. At TEDx Questfield Intl College Youth, he will explore “Hyper-Humans,” revealing how curiosity, creativity, and ethical technology adoption can empower the next generation to thrive in a hyper-technologized future.

Sara Irina State

Student

Sara is a multi-talented performer and academic achiever whose passion for music, drama, and learning has earned her national and international recognition. A gifted actress, she won Best Supporting Actress at the 2024 National Student Drama Competition, showcasing her ability to bring characters to life with depth and emotion. Her musical talents further highlight her artistic versatility, allowing her to captivate audiences both on stage and beyond. In addition to her artistic excellence, Sara is a dedicated scholar, earning the prestigious COBIS Student Achievement Award 2024 in recognition of her outstanding academic performance and contributions to her school community. Her ability to balance creativity and intellect makes her a true inspiration to her peers. As a TEDx speaker, Sara brings her unique perspective, passion, and talent to the stage, aiming to inspire others with her journey of perseverance, creativity, and achievement.

Ștefan Iancu

Actor

Ștefan Iancu, born on December 26, 1997, in Bucharest, began acting at the age of four. He appeared alongside Oscar Isaac in PU-239 and Abraham F. Murray in The Day of the Siege 1683. His career includes roles in notable Romanian and international productions, such as Amintiri din Epoca de Aur, Nașa, and Kira Kiralina. Ștefan made his theatre debut at Metropolis Theatre before finishing high school and later studied at the National University of Theatre and Film “I.L. Caragiale.” In 2018, he won the Gopo Award for Best Young Hope for his performance in Un Pas în Urma Serafimilor. He captivated audiences for four seasons in the ProTV series Vlad and gained international recognition as Felix in Killing Eve, earning the Best Newcomer award at Subtitle Talent Festival. Currently a full-time actor at Toma Caragiu Theatre, he starred in Libertate (2023) and will appear in the much-anticipated movie Hoții de Subiecte (The Subject Thieves), directed by Tudor Petremarin.

Ștefan Alexandru Brădianu

Student

Stefan Bradianu is, first and foremost, a curious and enthusiastic learner, that seeks to grow a bit every day. His fascinations include law – which he is studying right now -, economics, politics and just about any social science. He’s always exited to share his passion with the people around him. A dedicated debater, Stefan has spent a good part of his high school years debating at national and international levels, eventually getting second place, alongside his team, at the European Debate Championship and first place at the Romanian Academic Debate Forum. He is now eager to use his oratory skills in a less contradictory, more uplifting environment – ted talks.

Virgil Stănescu

Sports in Education Advocate

Virgil Stănescu's basketball career spanned top international leagues, including EuroLeague and EuroCup. He studied General Management at the University of South Alabama and earned a Master's in European Economic Integration. Stănescu served as Romania's National Basketball Team captain for a decade during his 15-year tenure. In 2014, he was inducted into the University of South Alabama's Hall of Fame. After retiring from professional play, he transitioned to leadership roles, including President of Steaua Bucharest Basketball Club and Vice President of the Romanian Basketball Federation. His focus shifted to integrating sports and education, establishing a youth center of excellence at Steaua Basketball. Stănescu's latest project, Go Scholarship, supports young athletes' holistic development across various sports. He advocates for the values gained through sports training and competition, believing they apply universally to sports, economics, and education.