Stefina Manoj

Student

Stefina Manoj is an ambitious and community-driven student leader currently studying Business with Economics at the University of Birmingham. As a passionate advocate for student wellbeing, representation, and engagement, Stefina is deeply involved in campus life and is running for Student Body President. Known for her strong communication skills, extroverted personality, and ability to bring people together, she thrives in collaborative environments and enjoys listening to diverse perspectives. Beyond academics, Stefina is actively involved in dance, sports, and creative expression, and is committed to making a positive impact wherever she goes. Her long-term goal is to build a meaningful career in business and eventually launch her own venture, helping others and creating spaces that inspire hope and connection.

Stefina Manoj is deeply passionate about people, connection, and creating spaces where others feel seen and supported. She is energised by meaningful conversations, community engagement, and opportunities to uplift those around her. With a love for creativity—through dance, performance, and expression—and a growing interest in leadership, business, and personal growth, Stefina channels her enthusiasm into making a positive impact wherever she goes. Her passions reflect a commitment to learning, helping others, and building vibrant communities rooted in empathy, collaboration, and joy.

Vitality isn’t something we’re born with — it’s something we generate between each other. Human energy is contagious, and when shared intentionally, it can transform communities, empower individuals, and create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and alive. In a world obsessed with productivity and achievement, we often forget that our real strength comes from our ability to build connection, spark joy, and lift each other up. Vitality is not an individual trait — it’s a collective force.

Art, Business, Dance, Leadership, Public Speaking

I used to think vitality was something I had to create inside myself — by working harder, pushing through, showing up with a smile no matter what. But the moment that shaped my TED idea didn’t happen on a stage or at a big event. It happened on an ordinary day at university. I was exhausted — mentally drained, academically overwhelmed, running from one responsibility to another. On that day, I didn’t feel like the “energetic Stefina” people expected. I was sitting alone, waiting for a class to start, trying to catch my breath. Then a first-year student walked in. I didn’t know her, but she walked straight to me and said, “I’m so glad I found you. People told me you’re someone who listens.” She started talking — fast, nervous, overwhelmed — about how she felt lost, invisible, unsure she belonged. And even though I had nothing left in my own tank, I listened. Really listened. I asked questions, encouraged her, shared what I wish someone had told me in my first year. By the end of that conversation, she smiled. A real, relieved smile. And strangely — I felt energised too. That’s when something clicked: Vitality isn’t an individual resource. It’s a shared one. Energy doesn’t come from being strong alone — it comes from connection. From giving someone your presence. From making them feel seen. That day taught me something simple but life-changing: People don’t recharge by isolating — they recharge by belonging. And maybe my real strength isn’t just being “high-energy,” but being able to spark energy in others. That became my idea worth spreading: Human connection creates vitality. And every one of us has the power to ignite it.

…bringing energy into a room and lifting the mood without even trying.