Theme: Transformation Reimagined

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Elpro International School
Elpro Compound, Shridhar Nagar Road, Chinchwad
Pune, Maharashtra, 411033
India

Aanya Goel

Student

Aanya Goel is a 9th grader at Elpro International School. Apart from being a published author and loving horse whisperer, Aanya also thrives on reading and dancing. When you can’t seem to find her, she’s probably curled up in a nook reading or pretending to be a professional dancer in her living room. With a pen in her hand and the world at her fingertips, she’s ready to write her own destiny—one chapter at a time.

Aarya Nair

Student

Aarya Nair is a talented Grade 8 student at Elpro International School with a passion for both science and technology. Since the age of five, she has embraced the art of classical dance, blending creativity with discipline. She is a sportsman who shows her talent in the sport of basketball. She is also part of the Student council, where her leadership and enthusiasm inspire those around her. An avid reader, she loves exploring the realms of science and emerging technologies, constantly seeking new knowledge. With her unique combination of intellect, artistry, and leadership, Aarya is poised to make a meaningful impact in both the scientific and artistic worlds.

Alifya Sayed

Astrologer

Dr. Alfiya Sayeed is an internationally acclaimed astrologer, numerologist, and vastu expert known for her scientific approach and ethical practices. With over a decade of experience, she delivers impactful results without false or exorbitant remedies, integrating astrology, numerology, and vastu as logical sciences. Her trusted advice has benefited entrepreneurs, industrialists, and celebrities worldwide. Dr. Alfiya has transformed commercial spaces across the U.S., Australia, South Africa, the U.K., and Bollywood. Featured on platforms like Pinkvilla and the Rubina Dilaik Show, she has appeared on 20+ podcasts advocating for scientific astrology. Committed to philanthropy, she offers free vastu consultations on pious occasions. As a TEDx India nominee, she champions vastu and astrology as scientific disciplines, inspiring progress with integrity and purpose.

Anchal Kumawat Kumawat

Psychologist, Illusionist

Known as the international face of Indian magic, Anchal has dominated the magic scene for the last 25 years. With record breaking performances , seen by millions across the globe , both live and on TV, she enthralls audiences with her skills , charm and quick wit. Her face paced shows take the people on an incredible journey of magic, mind reading and grand illusions. She also holds a Master's degree in Psychology.

Avni Patil

Student

Avni Patil, a grade 8 student, is an avid reader, a history enthusiast and someone who loves uncovering hidden stories from the past. When she is not exploring the world through books or music, she enjoys debating and having meaningful conversations also sharing ideas that challenge conventional thinking. Through her topic she wants to share that history isn't just about what's gone; it's about what it can teach us moving forward.

Chaitanya Kashyap

Student

Chaitanya Kashyap is a friendly and cheerful Grade 3 student from India studying at Elpro International School! At just 8 years of age, he has already had the exciting opportunity to study in 3-4 different countries. Chaitanya loves making new friends, playing games, and practicing martial arts, as well as reciting Sanskrit shlokas. Chaitanya has a big dream: he wants to spread happiness wherever he goes! He loves to smile and brighten up the day for those around him. One of his favourite ways to show love is with warm, friendly hugs. He thinks his mom is the best in the world, adores his school, and considers his elder brother to be his very best friend. Chaitanya’s joyful spirit truly makes him a special person!

Darsyab Jyothish

Student

A student of grade 8, Darsyab Jyothish is a student with a passion for public speaking, always eager to share ideas and connect with others. He spends his free time exploring two of his favorite interests: the Star Wars universe and the fascinating world of aviation. Whether diving into the epic tales of galactic adventures or learning about airplanes and their mechanics, Darsyab's hobbies reflect his curiosity and love for discovery.

Devansh Deshpande

Student

Meet Devansh, a bright and inquisitive 9-year-old and a grade 4 student with a deep love for space and a dream to explore beyond our planet. His creativity shines through his Lego creations and his love for fiction, especially the Harry Potter series. Devansh's passion for nature is evident in his beautiful drawings of landscapes and his efforts to make Earth greener. With an amazing imagination, Devansh enjoys writing stories and bringing them to life with his unique style. His expressive nature helps him connect deeply with those around him, and his unwavering love for his family drives him to make them proud. Devansh is a remarkable individual whose talents and qualities shine brightly in everything he does.

Jay Shah

Architect

Jay Shah, Founder and CEO of Kaizen.ai, stands at the forefront of architectural innovation, integrating artificial intelligence to transform traditional building design and construction. His pioneering work has garnered accolades such as the Economic Times “Startup of the Year” and “AI Proptech of the Year,” and has been featured in prestigious publications like Khaleej Times and The Real Deal. His partnership with Google’s AI platform, Delve, underscores his influence in the tech-driven evolution of architecture. A passionate educator, Jay has shared his expertise at leading global institutions including Columbia University in New York and IIT Hyderabad, emphasizing the role of technology in sustainable development. He is a frequent speaker at significant forums, from the South Florida Real Estate Forum to the CTBUH Global Conference in London, discussing the integration of AI in civil engineering and architecture.

Manali Alhat

Student

Meet the dynamic Manali Alhat—always smiling, bursting with energy, and a confident 9th grader who excels in academics. With a spiritual family background, she embodies high values, compassion, and unconditional love for all. She’s an art lover who passed elementary exam, a passionate basketball player, and a Kathak dancer who cleared her Madhyama Pratham exam (4th exam). A natural leader and proud cat mom, Manali has a passion for solving mysteries and dreams of traveling the world to make it better for both people and animals. She's here to challenge and change the way we view education.

Mustafeez Siddiqui

Legal professional and CS

Mustafeez Afsar Siddiqui is a seasoned legal professional with over 11 years of experience as an in-house counsel, specializing in corporate law, company secretarial matters, governance, and business administration. A qualified Law Graduate and Company Secretary, with a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration, he brings a unique blend of legal and business expertise. He has worked with renowned organizations across diverse sectors, including Aerospace, Automotive, Shipping, Telecom, and IT, previously serving as Legal Counsel with industry giants such as Maersk Line and Reliance Jio. Currently, he leads the Corporate Compliance, Contracts, and Advisory department at a high-growth startup that achieved unicorn status in February 2022. His expertise spans contract negotiation and drafting, corporate and commercial legal advisory, compliance frameworks, and data protection and privacy laws.

Piya Mahtaney

Economist

Piya Mahtaney is an economist, author, and journalist with a Master's in Development Economics from Leicester University, England. She began her career with The Times of India as Assistant Editor and later joined The Economic Times as a Senior Feature Writer, covering socio-economic issues. Her expertise in economic development and globalisation led to authorship and contributions as a visiting lecturer at St. Xavier’s Institute of Communications and College. She is a council member of the Forum of Free Enterprise and writes a monthly column for Forum Views, published by the BSE. A trained classical Western ballet dancer since childhood, Piya balances her analytical pursuits with artistic passion.

Ruhi Arora

Student

Ruhi Arora is a charming young student at Elpro who stands out as an excellent Public speaker

Sara Kulkarni

Student

Sara Kulkarni a passionate Grade 11 student who finds joy in weaving words into poetry and engaging in dynamic debates that challenge perspectives. An avid literature and art enthusiast, Sara believes in the transformative power of creative expression and critical thinking. A devoted book lover and animal enthusiast, Sara finds inspiration in the world around her, whether through the pages of a novel or the companionship of animals. She loves expressing her creativity through art and baking, finding both to be delightful and therapeutic outlets.

Saumya Saraogi

Entrepreneur

Saumya Saraogi is the Founder of Kidiaree, a compelling Consumer Tech solution making it simple for parents to discover high-quality and meaningful learning & engagement for their children. Through robust curation as well as co-creation in collaboration with outstanding educators, across academics and extra-curriculars, covering both online and offline modes, Kidiaree is on a mission to democratize the vast but fragmented space of children's edutainment. Kidiaree is Saumya's maiden entrepreneurial venture, after 17 years in Banking including a 15-year stint with HSBC. She was inspired to take the plunge and build Kidiaree after having experienced the gap as a hands-on parent to her now 8-year-old. When taking a break, Saumya pursues her keen interests in personal growth, conservation and animal welfare.

Shriyansh Kamas

Student

Shriyansh Kanmas, a Grade 7 student, is an ambitious and curious young individual with a wide range of passions—gaming, football, and solving Rubik’s Cubes. What truly drives him, however, is his belief in a world without borders—a world where unity, connection, and collaboration replace division. Inspired by the global connections he sees through play and influenced by the works of authors like Chetan Bhagat and Dan Brown, Shriyansh dreams of a future where opportunities are endless and everyone can grow together, no matter where they come from. Today, he’ll share how his passions and vision are guiding him toward a world that is more connected and limitless.

Triti Maheshwari

Student

Meet Triti, an IBDP learner and President of the student senate here at Elpro. With her ever growing love for debate and discussion, nothing beats challenging perspectives and exchanging ideas with her peers. You would often find her at the tennis court perfecting her serves, or at the piano playing “Clair de lune”. She’s outgoing, curious and driven, always ready for a new adventure whether it's on the court, at the debate podium or in a galaxy far far away. Her immediate cure for a slow day is a cup of hot chocolate and a Star Wars marathon. She believes in learning from experience, not just her own but others’ as well. Everyone has a different story to tell and she looks forward to sharing hers about how vipassana helped her grow.

Vishvesh Moharkar

Student

Vishvesh, a fifth grader, is a dynamic blend of wit and fun, with a keen interest in technology. A natural leader, he seamlessly collaborates within teams. He is confident and driven. He thrives on independence and sets his own goals. A budding performer, Vishvesh actively engages in all events and competitions. An avid reader, he also nurtures his passions for singing, coding, and exploring the world through travel. Deeply connected to nature, he cultivates a small organic terrace garden, reflecting his commitment to environmental protection. Aspiring to be a young innovator and entrepreneur, Vishvesh dreams of launching his own startup before his sixteenth birthday.