TEDxSunbeam College Varanasi Women

Speakers

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

• Akansha Jain

  Indian Forest Service Officer

  She is a dedicated Indian Forest Service Officer (2023 Batch)born on the Uttar Pradesh Cadre, currently serving as the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Azamgarh. With a rare blend of scientific acumen, social awareness, and deep compassion for the planet, she stands as a shining example of India’s new generation of environmentally conscious civil servants. She graduated as an Electronics and Communication Engineer fromRGPV, Bhopal, and went on to pursue her Post-Graduation in Social Work from Delhi School of Social Work (University of Delhi) — a combination that reflects her belief in integrating technology with human development. Her pursuit of knowledge continued with an M.Sc. in Forestry from the Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun, one of India’s most prestigious environmental institutions, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Law from National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore.

• Ankit Sahni

  Founder & CEO The Hazelnut Factory

  He is a visionary entrepreneur and creative innovator best known as the founder of The Hazelnut Factory (THF)— a brand that has redefined the way India experiences indulgence. Guided by a passion for culinary artistry and an unrelenting drive to innovate, Ankit has transformed the country’s traditional dessert landscape by blending the nostalgia of Indian mithai with the sophistication of modern craftsmanship.Under Ankit’s leadership, The Hazelnut Factory has grown into a name synonymous with quality, innovation, and emotion. His approach goes beyond product development — he designs experiences. From digitized outlets and personalized gifting to immersive dessert bars, every THF touchpoint reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and creativity. For Ankit, food is more than nourishment; it is an expression of culture, artistry, and connection.

• Divya Chaudhary

  Content Editor & Writer

  She is a passionate writer, editor, and educator who blends intellect with creativity to give words both power and purpose. An alumna of Sunbeam Women’s College, Varuna (Batch 2018–21), she served as the Head Girl, leading with empathy, excellence, and vision — qualities that continue to define her professional journey. Currently, she works as a Professional Content Editor and Writer at City Montessori School, Lucknow, where she curates impactful educational and creative content for one of India’s most distinguished learning institutions. Divya completed her Master’s in Political Science from Banaras Hindu University , where she developed a keen interest in governance, democracy, and social justice. A storyteller at heart, Divya believes that every word carries weight — and that writing is not just communication, but creation. Her work reflects sensitivity, thoughtfulness, and a deep understanding of human narratives.

• Dr. Sangeeta Shankar

  World Renowned violinist Founder & Director Legendary Legacy Promotions Pvt.

  She is a world-renowned Indian classical violinist, daughter and disciple of the legendary Padma Bhushan Dr. N. Rajam. A torchbearer of the Banaras Gharana, she epitomizes the Gayaki Ang — the art of emulating the human voice on the violin. Her mesmerizing performances, profound improvisation, and unmatched left-hand technique have captivated audiences worldwide. A scholar with twin gold medals (B.A. & M.A.) and a Ph.D. from Banaras Hindu University, she bridges tradition and innovation through education and media. Creator of the acclaimed TV series Swar Sadhana and founder of the Rajam School of Violin, she also headed the School of Music at Whistling Woods International (2015–2021) with visionary filmmaker Subhash Ghai. As a performer, educator, and motivational speaker, Dr. Shankar continues to inspire generations, nurturing the soulful legacy of Indian classical music.

• Sagnik Lahiri

  Singer , Song writer

  Sagnik Lahiri is an indie singer-songwriter from Bengal, known for his soulful vocals, evocative lyrics, and contemporary acoustic sound. Originally from Hugli-Chinsurah, his music draws inspiration from artists like John Mayer and Steven Wilson. As the founder and frontman of the Bangla band **Crossroads**, he has carved a distinct space in the regional indie scene with releases like Chole Gele Dureand Lokkhyo Bohu Dur. Through themes of longing, reflection, and human connection, Sagnik continues to create music that lingers as emotion long after the song ends.

• Shivani Mehta

  Designer & Entrepreneur- Daakroom

  She is a designer and entrepreneur whose work bridges creativity, sustainability, and the preservation of human connection in an increasingly digital world. Her journey is rooted in the belief that design can be a powerful tool to slow down, reconnect, and inspire meaningful engagement — both with ourselves and with one another. Her story began in 2013 at the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, where she was pursuing Product Design. What started as a small experiment — a charming postcard stall in the college canteen — soon grew into something extraordinary. The project was born from a simple desire to revive the joy of handwritten communication, and that experiment became Daakroom, a platform dedicated to celebrating letters and tangible creative experiences.Over the years, Daakroom evolved from a student initiative into a full-fledged movement.