Past TEDx event

TEDxUskudar American Academy Youth

Behind the Scenes

Took placeMay 22, 2025
Locationİstanbul, İstanbul, Turkey
FormatYouth
Not everything is as it seems at first glance—there’s always more beneath the surface. Our theme, "Behind the Scenes," invites us to uncover the hidden layers of stories, achievements, and ideas. It’s about the unseen work, the untold struggles, and the quiet moments that shape the big picture. By looking deeper, we can find meaning and inspiration in the parts of life that are often overlooked but hold the real power to transform and inspire.

Speakers

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

  • Ebru Tuay

    Psychotherapist+Author+Television Host

    I am a psychotherapist who graduated from California State University, Fullerton. As well as running my own private practice, I have worked with UN Women and staged a show about gender equality. I have also produced a TV show on self-development and am a published writer.

  • Ela Nur Halil

    Student

    Ela Nur Halil is a 9th-grade student at Üsküdar American Academy. She is enthusiastic about using technology to support underprivileged communities. As a member of her school’s debate club and Türkiye’s national debate team, she is passionate about the intersection of social sciences and data analysis in solving real-world challenges. Beyond academics, she is deeply engaged in tango and playing the piano.

  • Hande Özcan

    Student

    Hande Özcan is a high school student at Üsküdar American Academy with a passion for leadership and global affairs. She founded her school’s DECA chapter, serves on the student council, and is active in MUN. Living with Myasthenia Gravis, she draws strength and empathy from her experience while mentoring others and building her leadership skills.

  • Zeynep İyigün

    Student

    Zeynep is an 11th grade IB student at Üsküdar American Academy and a prospective economics major. She co-founded EconoFem to merge her interests in economics, politics, and social service. Outside academics, she plays libero on the volleyball team, bassoon in the school orchestra, and contributes to RoarTV through video editing and scriptwriting. Her speech focuses on global challenges and the power of individual action.

  • Zeynep Küçükmustafa

    Student

    Zeynep Küçükmustafa is a 9th grade student at Üsküdar American Academy in Istanbul, where she is deeply involved in academic and extracurricular activities. She currently serves as the president of the World Scholars Cup club and has represented her school in various international competitions. Zeynep is passionate about social issues and is actively engaged in projects like Econofem, which promotes economic literacy in Turkey. She is the new treasurer of the Student Council and also an advocate for marginalized voices through her involvement as the liaison manager in Turkey’s Unheard Voices. In addition, Zeynep participates in the MUN club, bettering her leadership and diplomacy skills while working on global issues. Through these efforts, she demonstrates her commitment to creating positive change and making her voice heard.

Organizing team