Theme: Breaking the Script

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).

TEDxLAHS
201 Almond Ave
Los Altos, California, 94022
United States

Arush Garg

Student

Arush Garg is a student at Los Altos High School, president of the AI and Machine Learning club, as well as a member of the robotics team. In addition, he plays badminton and enjoys working out. He grew up in India, and Singapore after that, coming to the US last summer. He chose the topic of video games as a light-hearted way to introduce a new mindset to life.

Daria Rodova

Student

Daria Rodova is currently a sophomore in Los Altos High School. She has been recognized for her dedication to both artistic sports and poetry. From a young age, Daria discovered a passion for movement and expression. Over the years, she has been a rhythmic gymnast, ballerina, and artistic swimmer, earning awards that reflect her hard work and commitment. However, her journey has not been without challenges. Grappling with the pressures of perfectionism has often impacted her mental well-being and performance. In her talk, she explains how her performances were met with the fear of not meeting expectations, overshadowing her love for the sport.

Francis Ruan and Nickaan Heidari

Student

Francis Ruan, a 18-year-old senior, is the current Student Body President at Los Altos High School in CA, is a passionate student and plays Varsity Football and runs Varsity Track and Field during his free time. He is in his fourth year of Student Government (ASB) at school and has taken initiative as Class President Of The Class Of 2025 two consecutive years. Nickaan Heidari is a student with a passion for basketball, filmmaking, and leadership. He enjoys the challenges and teamwork that come with playing basketball, as well as the creativity involved in producing videos. As a co-founder of a media agency, he works with startups to create content that helps bring their ideas to life. Beyond filmmaking, Nickaan has been involved in volunteering and student leadership, dedicating time to helping his community through tutoring, coaching, and various school activities.

Harshini Nagappan

Student

Harshini Nagappan is a sophomore at Los Altos High School. She is a member of the Youth Advisory Committee and the Teen Ambassador Program, where she actively advocates for issues that affect teenagers, such as mental wellness and equal learning opportunities. Throughout her two years at LAHS, Harshini has been recognized as Tutor of the Week, named Mock Trial MVP, and served on Class Council. From participating in speech competitions since the age of 4 to now being Vice President of the Podcast Club, she has learned the essential role that effective communication plays in everyday life.

Iha Rastogi

Student

Iha Rastogi is a second-year undergraduate at UC Davis studying neurobiology. As a member of Gen Z, she has grown up in the midst of the internet-age, witnessing profound impacts of social media on cultural trends and mental wellbeing. Utilizing a background in neuroscience, she seeks to unpack how social media has impacted our brain development, cognitive processes, and behavioral patterns by bringing in specific examples relevant to a youth audience.

Li Cui

Tech professional

Li is a high tech professional with over a decade of success at Fortune 500 enterprises. She is a late bloomer, a lifelong learner, and a community builder.

Linuki Ekenayake and Joanne Lin

Student researchers

Linuki co-leads Science Olympiad and is President of the Future Health Professionals club (formerly HOSA). She has worked on synthetic organic chemistry research through developing small-molecules inhibitors and immunosuppressants. Joanne has a passion for science both within and outside of school, from co-running the Biotechnology Club to conducting genomics research on the weekends. Joanne also helps lead the USA Biology Olympiad Club and Chemistry Club, promotes disaster preparedness and response in her community, and plays violin in the Golden State Youth Orchestra. Both are students in their school’s research class, where they design a capstone project, conduct experiments, and ultimately present their findings. By speaking about the mistakes and successes they experienced along the way, the two reflect on the role of high schoolers in the scientific community, why it’s worth diving into research at this stage, and how others can create their own meaningful contributions.

Lucy Meyer

Entrepreneur

Guest speaker Lucy Meyer is a self-made entrepreneur in real estate and home remodeling. She is also a life coach, and published author.

Shakti Ann Kanyal

Student

Shakti Ann Kanyal, a Junior at Los Altos High School, has faced bullying firsthand, shaping her mission to help others build confidence and self-worth. Understanding the impact of social environments and social media, she empowers others to overcome negativity and develop resilience. At school, Shakti Ann is a varsity athlete, actively involved in leadership, and adds innovation to all the fields she joins. She served as the President of Blue Crew and currently leads the Investing Club and a Tennis Club that provides lessons to children with disabilities. Her commitment to inclusivity and support is evident in all she does. Beyond school, Shakti Ann runs the TikTok page @shaktianntalks, where she shares insights on bullying, academic pressure, personal growth, and confidence-building. Her logical approach helps others challenge criticism and comparison, fostering self-assurance.