Past TEDx event

TEDxVandegrift HS

Ignite Innovation

Took placeMarch 29, 2025
LocationAustin, Texas, United States
FormatYouth
Humanity has been shaped by innovation. Humans have been able to accomplish so much because of our creative thinking and ability to foster innovation in the face of challenges. Innovation is a continuous process, and by identifying the driving factors and its impacts, we can foster the growth of our communities and promote creativity. Join us on the 29th of March at the Four Points Middle School theatre to hear our speakers Aashka, Anya, Charlie, Christine, Dishita, Lasya, and Shaye's takes on the topic.

Speakers

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

  • Aashka Kancharla

    Aashka Kancharla is the Founder and President of Habitat for Humanity at Vandegrift High School, driven by a deep passion for affordable housing and a strong ambition to study architecture—ideally in New York City. Beyond her architectural pursuits, she is an avid reader and writer, eager to explore the literary world. She also has a love for long-distance running, using it as a way to discover new trails, cities, and races.

  • Anya Bhandari

    Anya Bhandari is a high school senior at Vandegrift High School with a strong focus on business, policy, and STEM. She is a passionate advocate for social justice serving as a Youth Outreach Leader for the Austin Liberation Youth Movement (ALYM) and in the STEM and business world, she is the Business Operations Lead for FRC Team Valor 6800. At her high school, Anya also founded and leads the Vandegrift High School Mock Trial Team, is a state-level DECA competitor, serves as Vice President of Student Council, and is a Core Team Leader for the Leander Independent School District Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council under Dr. Bruce Gearing and more.

  • Christine Sampson

    Christine is passionate about exploring the intersection of science, ethics, and society. She enjoys researching about emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence while engaging in discussions about their moral implications.

  • Dishita Bajaj

    Vandegrift High School student Dishita Bajaj is an aspiring neurologist and medical illustrator, passionate about bringing art, empathy, and creativity into medicine.

  • Lasya Kesapragada

    Outside of her studies, Laasya Kesapragada uses her time to focus on creating her non-profit organization, baking, going to the gym, listening to music, and researching her curiosities regarding neuroscience and psychology.

  • Powell Jacob

    Powell is passionate about world languages as well as how they influence both culture and identity. He enjoys exploring the connections between linguistics, global community, and empathy.

  • Shaye Wirth

    Outside of her studies, Shaye Wirth enjoys participating in a variety of student organizations, working on her blog, and reading books about cyberterrorism and history.

Organizing team