TEDxSIST

Speakers

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

• Akshita Nanda Gopal

  Senior Editor & Anchor

  Akshita Nandagopal is a distinguished Indian television journalist, anchor, and Deputy Editor at India Today TV, with over two decades of experience shaping the national news landscape. Having begun her broadcasting career with Doordarshan in 2003, she went on to sharpen her editorial and analytical skills at several major networks, including Zee News, ABP News, and Republic World. Today, she is a leading prime-time voice on India Today TV—anchoring flagship programs like 6 PM Prime and Super Six—while also serving as a key authority on South Indian politics and hosting the digital cultural show Aarvam on The Lallantop. Renowned for her sharp political acumen, versatile storytelling, and dedication to bridging the gap between complex national policy and grassroots reality, she brings a powerful perspective to the TEDx stage on the evolving dynamics of modern media and communication.

• Ankita Thadani

  Founder & Chief Alchemist, Secret Alchemist

  Ankita Thadani is the founder and creative force behind Secret Alchemist, a clean wellness and fragrance brand built on a 35-year aromatherapy heritage. The story begins with her mother, Mrs. Sumi Thadani, who hand-blended healing oils back in 1990 in Mumbai with an unwavering belief in nature's restorative power, laying the roots of what would become a lasting legacy. Ankita rekindled that legacy, reimagining the family's 24 Carat Remedies into Secret Alchemist in 2022. The brand launched first as a wellness house, rooted in aromatherapy formulas refined across generations before expanding into clean perfumery, becoming one of India's first clean perfume houses.

• Mohamed Irfan

  Entertainer

  Irfan's View, established by Mohammed Irfan 7years and counting , has grown into a globally recognized influencer- and experienced youtuber with the focus on delivery high quality content for 365 days, that drives engagement and growth. irfansviewofficial is deeply committed to the art of storytelling, successfully winning the hearts of the younger generation and cultivating an enthusiastic fanbase worldwide. Irfan's View is a leading force in the realm of impactful digital narratives. lets connect and create YouTube - 4.5 Million+ Subscribers Instagram - 1.6 Million+ Subscribers. In addition to YouTube, Irfan has grown his digital presence into a full-scale media brand. He has collaborated with over 500 brands and runs a production company. His reviews heavily influence local culinary trends, making him a major influencer in the South Indian digital space.

• Rayane Mithun

  Digital Creator, Head of New Media and Podcast Host

  Rayane Mithun is a content creator, media professional, podcast host, and storyteller from Chennai. As the creator and host of The Rayane Show, she has built a platform for honest, thought-provoking conversations with leaders, changemakers, athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs, driven by her belief that curiosity is more powerful than judgment. With years of experience in digital media and content strategy, Rayane is passionate about using storytelling to challenge perceptions, foster empathy, and inspire meaningful dialogue. Through her work, she continues to encourage people to look beyond first impressions and embrace the power of authentic human connection.

• Rohini Manian

  CEO, Global Adjustments

  Rohini Manian is an entrepreneur, business leader, and social impact advocate dedicated to building businesses that create lasting economic, environmental, and social value. As the Chief Executive Officer of Global Adjustments, one of India's leading corporate real estate and relocation advisory firms, she has led the organisation in serving more than 250 Fortune 500 companies and multinational corporations, facilitating real estate and relocation solutions for over 25,000 professionals and families across India. Under her leadership, the company has earned a reputation for trust, excellence, and client-centric innovation.

• Senthil Kumaran

  Documentary Photographer and National Geographic Explorer

  Senthil Kumaran is a visual storyteller and National Geographic Explorer from South India, whose work moves fluidly between art, empathy, and conservation. For over 15 years, he has documented social and environmental stories, using a deeply personal approach to explore humanity’s relationship with the wild. His long-term projects focus on wildlife conservation, particularly the fragile spaces of human–animal conflict. For more than a decade, he has chronicled the human–tiger interface, and now turns his gaze toward human–elephant coexistence in South India, including the Kurumba tribes of the Western Ghats. His work has earned over 20 international photography awards and continues to advocate for biodiversity and coexistence.