Past TEDx event
TEDxEarl Marriott Youth
Rethinking the Common
Speakers
Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.
Adam Lenk
Student at Earl Marriott Secondary
Adam Lenk is a Grade 11 student at Earl Marriott Secondary School and is interested in science, music, and technology. He is the Co-Founder of the Indigenous Student Society at his school where he advocates for Indigenous culture and identity throughout. He is also an executive member of the Music Council and member of the in Model United Nations Club and Speech and Debate Club. Through his talk, Adam hopes to challenge the common perspective of “having potential.” He examines how potential is only meaningful when paired with action and why people are constantly waiting for the right moment to start. He hopes to spark reflection in his audience on how society views the possibility of success rather than success itself, and wants to inspire others to take action in their goals rather than waiting for the right moment to begin.
Alveera Wahi
Student at Semiahmoo Secondary
Alveera Wahi is a Grade 11 student at Semiahmoo Secondary with an interest in law, public speaking, and community involvement. Growing up in South Surrey inspired her to stay involved in the community that helped shape her. Over three years, she has participated in Model United Nations, winning awards and staffing at some of the largest conferences on the Canadian west coast. Through MUN, she has developed skills in leadership, collaboration, and public speaking. Alveera serves as Co President of the BC Youth Council Semiahmoo chapter, Co President of the Semiahmoo Psychology Club, and Vice President of Teens Teach Tech. She is also a member of British Columbia Youth Parliament and serves as a Princess of White Rock 2025/2026. Alveera has received recognition for her writing, including 3rd place in the Surrey Youth Writing Contest and the Best Essay Award in the White Rock Youth Ambassadors Program. She hopes to pursue a future in law and make an impact through leadership and advocacy.
Bella Endersby
Student at Earl Marriott Secondary
Bella Endersby is a grade eleven student at Earl Marriott Secondary. She is the President of the Earl Marriott Music Council, where she leads her team in multiple activities, fundraisers, and events. Bella is also the co-founder of the high school jazz group The Jazzy Cats, plays the trumpet in two school ensembles, and plays three other instruments on the side. Since her early childhood, Bella has done an incredible amount of volunteer work, from being a daycare teacher to acting as a Crew Member for Variety the Children’s Charity, an event to support children with developmental delays. Finally, Bella is the founder of Music for the Minds, a student-run initiative that works with different individuals, using music to create bonds and improve the quality of life, where she blends her love for music and passion for helping others.
Leah Wang
Student at Glenlyon Norfolk School
Leah Wang is an IBDP student from Victoria and an experienced speaker, having previously spoken at TEDxVictoria. As the Director of Operations for the BC Youth Council and a member of the federal Constituency Youth Council, she focuses on translating abstract political awareness into tangible youth participation. In her upcoming TEDx talk, Leah explores the critical disconnect between online political content and local institutional reality, advocating for a shift from distant frustration to active proximity.
Michelle Liu
Student at Earl Marriott Secondary
Michelle Liu is a student, athlete, and active volunteer in her school community. She is passionate about personal growth and understanding how life experiences shape who we become. Michelle received an Excellence Award in Social Studies and placed first in the female 14-and-under category in a 5 km race last June. Drawing from her own experiences, she explores how pain, while often uncomfortable, can play a meaningful role in building resilience and shaping identity. Outside of school, Michelle enjoys staying active and challenging herself through athletics, and music.
Thenuli Ruwanpura
Student at Earl Marriott Secondary
Thenuli Ruwanpura is a Grade 10 french immersion student at Earl Marriott Secondary with a strong interest in science and health. She is actively involved in her school and community through student council, Relay for Life, and her work with non-profit organizations. Thenuli is also a Rec Leadership student and is a member of her school band, where she plays the saxophone and flute. Outside of school, she is involved in Air Cadets and studies ballet. She is also passionate about supporting others through tutoring and collaborative learning. Through her involvement and interests, Thenuli strives to make a positive impact and inspire those around her.
Zohra Khawaja
Student at Grandview Heights Secondary
Zohra Khawaja is a youth activist and founder of the non-profit Hearts Against Homelessness, an organization working towards destigmatizing youth homelessness. Her work has led to over $20,000 in funds being raised to support her programming, a volunteer team that spans 10 countries, and partnerships with 18 community organizations. She has spoken with the Minister of Education along with many district professionals to advocate for increased education on homelessness. Since founding Hearts Against Homelessness, Zohra has been named one of Surrey’s Top 25 Under 25, an Ingenious+ Regional Winner, and a Terry Fox Humanitarian Award finalist.
