TEDxGEMS UIS Youth

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Chitra Seshadri

  Supervisor

  Chitra has a career in the field of teaching and learning, spanning 27 years (20 years in GEMS and 7 years in India), and acquired PD training in pedagogy series and leadership program in 2011-2012 and 2012-2013, respectively. She was the recipient of the ‘Best Teacher’ award for the year 2010-2011, ‘Gems Core Value Award’ for the year 2012-2013, and the ‘Teacher of the Month’ award in 2015. Also, she was nominated for the prestigious ‘Mariamma Varkey Award’ in 2016. Over the years, Chitra has proved her versatility as a curriculum developer, resource provider, instructional specialist, mentor, panel member, PD champion, and organizer of school events. She is an effective communicator and a resourceful educator with proven ability to enhance students’ performance, promising to shape a better world for students and empower them with knowledge and skills.

• Deborah Thankam Ciju

  Student

  15, fearless, and not waiting for the future to start, Deborah Ciju is already making her voice heard. A certified Toastmaster, she captivates audiences with a mix of wit, curiosity, and bold storytelling. Don’t be fooled by her height—she may be short, but she is no less of a giant when it comes to ideas. With passions spanning music, dance, and debates, she carries her achievements lightly, leading with kindness, clarity, and a down-to-earth charm that sets her apart. Deborah has a deep-rooted passion for expressing her thoughts and ideas to others and making her words count.

• Emaad Feroz

  Student

  Emaad Feroz is 17 and already chasing something bigger than a win- he’s chasing change. As captain of his school’s football team and a fierce debater, he thrives in high-pressure moments, where passion meets precision. Off the field, he’s a storyteller at heart: writing, editing, and building magazines and newspapers that speak louder than headlines. His goal isn’t just to join the sports industry- it’s to unlock it, reshape it, and make space for new voices. With every game, every word, every stage, Emaad isn’t waiting to be handed a future; he’s carving one out for himself, one bold step at a time.

• Hari Ganesh Babu

  Student

  Hari Ganesh Babu is a high school student whose journey is defined by curiosity, leadership, and a relentless drive to explore the unknown. From an early love of dinosaurs to a growing fascination with space, sustainability, and the sciences, he has always approached the world with wonder and a hunger for answers. In school, he channels this spirit into action, spearheading environmental initiatives, leading student governments, or shaping narratives as a Model UN Crisis Director. Beyond academics, he is a passionate advocate for youth voices and the environment, believing that young people can, and must, play a role in shaping the future. His work spans research on energy systems for space exploration, sustainability audits for schools, and representing EAD's Sustainable Schools initiative at COP 28. With each step, he is proving that curiosity is not something to be outgrown, but something to be carried forward, as both a compass and a spark.

• Indravati Pandey

  Assistant Supervisor

  With two decades of teaching experience, Miss Indravati Pandey is a passionate History educator known for her patriotic spirit, traditional values, and warm connection with students. Friendly and approachable, she has a unique gift for bringing the past alive-making history not just a subject, but a lived experience that inspires learners to see themselves as future global citizens. A dedicator, mentor and hardworking guide, she has shaped generations. Beginning her journey as a history research enthusiast with a passion for journalism, she seemingly wove both the pursuits into her teaching, transforming the classroom into a space of inquiry, storytelling and inspiration. She seemingly blends humour and teaching, creating a vibrant space where knowledge is both meaningful and memorable. She firmly believes in Khalil Gibran’s timeless words: ‘If he is indeed wise he does not bid you to enter the house of his wisdom but rather leads you to the threshold of your own mind.’

• Mirana Gabin Mathew

  Student

  Mirana is a visionary 11th grader with an unwavering passion for service. She is an inquisitive student, a compelling public speaker, and a thoughtful collaborator. She is enthusiastic about the environment and literature and is a passionate debater. With a blend of a dreamer’s ambition and a leader’s resolve, she draws inspiration from the potential within her community, always ready for the next challenge.