Undergraduate students at Duke Kunshan University organized a TEDx conference, featuring a diverse lineup of speakers sharing inspiring messages about creativity, transformation, and improving the world.
Seven original and engaging talks on the theme of “Sparks” were given to a live audience at the CCT Theater on Nov. 23 and will soon be posted online for everyone to watch. The conference was the second student-led TEDx event of 2024.
Ilias Mouhboub, a DKU sophomore from Errachidia, Morocco, spoke about the adaptability of the human brain in his talk, “Out-brain your brain.” Drawing from his experience in filmmaking, music production, and public speaking, Mouhboub explained how the brain’s flexibility can be used to build better habits and unlock potential.
“Your brain can trick you,” he said. “But if you outsmart it first, you can unlock new possibilities.”
Cong Li, a language educator at DKU, discussed innovative methods for teaching languages in his talk, “Gamifying language learning.”
“Learning a new language is like playing a game,” Li said, explaining how game mechanics –such as rewards and challenges – can motivate learners and improve retention.
She Rewires co-founder Jill Tang shared her journey from a finance career to social entrepreneurship in her talk, “Igniting your spark: Unleashing your potential for lasting impact.”
“Your journey is unique,” Tang said. “When you amplify your spark, you not only light up your path but also inspire others to do the same.”
In his talk, ” The lies we tell ourselves to live, ” junior philosophy student Krishna Thiagarajan delved into the stories people tell themselves to bring purpose to their lives.
“These narratives are hidden lies we invent to create meaning,” Thiagarajan said. “When we confront and challenge them, we can open the door to self-transformation.”
Graduate student Menglu Jiang explored the health benefits of sauna therapy in her talk, “The sauna use, your potential health spark.” Jiang, a student in the global health program, examined claims about sauna’s impact on blood circulation, stress relief, and overall well-being.
Matej Cačik, a Slovakian advocate for rural development, discussed bridging the urban-rural divide in his talk, “Breaking boundaries: Empowering rural voices in a globalized world.”
“Our education system needs to allow students to learn through failure and exploration,” Cačik said. He emphasized the importance of fostering curiosity and creating lifelong learners.
Filmmaker and DKU visiting professor Crystal Kwok, in her talk “Finding Your Voice,” reflected on her experiences in Hong Kong cinema and her documentary work.
“Finding your voice is about taking a stand,” Kwok said. “By telling your story in your way, you can challenge norms and redefine perspectives.”
The latest TEDxDKU event was led by undergraduate student Noah Caplan, from the Class of 2026. Key team members included Colden Johnson (Curator and co-founder), Mateja Bokan (Technical Director), Alessia Barreca (Event Manager), Michael Cornell (Director of Design), Gavin Huang (Webmaster), Ethan Deal, and Laura Liu. TEDx events are independently organized under the guidance of the TEDx program, which provides a platform for sharing ideas through short, impactful talks.
“We chose the theme ‘Sparks’ to inspire change and ignite action,” Caplan said. “I’m incredibly proud of the effort from both our organizers and speakers.”
The event began with opening remarks by Scott MacEachern, vice chancellor of academic affairs at DKU. Undergraduate students Lucas Chacko and Ayusha Koirala acted as hosts throughout the conference. Videos of each talk will be published on TEDx and TEDx-DKU platforms. For updates and more information on TEDx-DKU 2024, visit the website and follow @tedxdku on Instagram.
