Past TEDx event

TEDxGCT

The WHY Factor

Took placeMarch 14, 20269:00 AM - 5:00 PM (GMT+5:30)
LocationCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
FormatUniversity
TEDxGCT| March 14, 2026 Government College of Technology proudly presents TEDx, happening on 14th March 2026, a day dedicated to ideas that challenge, inspire, and ignite change. This year’s theme, “THE WHY FACTOR,” explores the questions that shape our thoughts, actions, and choices. From big life decisions to everyday habits, every action begins with a why. The event celebrates curiosity in its simplest and most unexpected forms—where even topics like “Why you should sleep,” “Why failure matters,” or “Why small habits create big change” are not just questions, but powerful conversations. Featuring a diverse lineup of 8 speakers from science, technology, art, wellness, leadership, and social impact, TEDxGCT 2026 welcomes thought-provoking talks that make you pause, reflect, and rethink the obvious. No idea is too small, no question too simple—because sometimes, the most ordinary why leads to extraordinary insights. Join us on 14th March 2026 at Government College of Technology for an experience where curiosity is celebrated, perspectives are challenged, and why becomes the spark for change.

Speakers

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

  • Chris Jason

    Musician

    A Session Guitarist and Bassist from Chennai who has worked with remarkable composers like A.R. Rahman, HipHop Thamizha and Vishal Chandrashekar. Some of his works include "Teri Nazar" from the movie 99 Songs, "Enjoy Enjaami composed by Dhee and Arivu, and the entire album of "Sitha Ramam".

  • Gowtham Kannan

    Social Activist

    Recognized as the first person in Tamil Nadu to actively educate tribal communities and promote learning among them. Brain tumor survivor. Co-founder of Village Bells Foundation, an NGO dedicated to improving the lives of tribal and underprivileged communities through education and social support. Organic farmer and traditional lifestyle trainer promoting sustainable living.

  • Iyan Karthikeyan

    Mission Director of Fact Check Unit

    A Fact-Checker and Digital Misinformation Researcher from Tamil Nadu who leads the Tamil Nadu Government's Fact Check Unit as Mission Director. He is also the co-founder of YouTurn, a fact-checking platform that investigates viral misinformation and promotes media literacy online.

  • Madhusoodhanan P

    Former Wing Commander

    A Former Wing Commander of the Indian Air Force who has played a key role in India's aerospace and defense ecosystem. He currently serves as Vice President (Aerospace & Defense) at TIDCO and Managing Director of TANCAM, contributing to the development of the Tamil Nadu Defense Industrial Corridor.

  • Meenakshi S

    Quality Engineering and Assurance Leader

    Associate Vice President (AVP) at Cognizant, specifically acting as the Global QEA (Quality Engineering and Assurance) Delivery leader for Insurance and FSI (Financial Services and Insurance), and A proud alumna of GCT Coimbatore. She is known for her collaborative leadership, she believes in building strong teams and creating meaningful impact through technology.

  • Nisha D

    Student

    Talented, bold, and hardworking second-year Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering student from GCT, takes the stage as student speaker to share her inspiring journey and experience.

  • Radha Subramaniyan

    Dermatologist

    Dr. Radha Subramaniyan is a consultant dermatologist and Founder–Medical Director of Spade Skin & Aesthetics. A gold medalist and recipient of the Young Dermatologist Award 2025, she is recognized for training dermatologists internationally in injectables, lasers, and advanced aesthetic procedures, combining clinical practice, teaching, and innovation in modern dermatology.

  • Vishal Naveen

    Wildlife Photographer

    Dr.Vishal Naveen, a 24-year-old wildlife photographer by passion and a doctor by profession. With an experience of 11 years, in the field of Wildlife photography. Recognition/ Awards - 1st Indian photographer to be the Top 15 finalists in MOTION CATEGORY from more than 4.3 lakh + entries, from 200+ countries and territories in the SONY WORLD PHOTOGRAPHY ORGANISATION AWARDS in the year 2026 Also Shortlisted as TOP15 finalists in WILDLIFE CATEGORY in sony awards, the same year. Won the special mention award in 2023 '' Indian nature and wildlife awards " Featured in 50+ online publications.

Organizing team