Nibras International School hosted its first-ever TEDx Event with the theme of “Looking Inward, Facing Forward.”
As part of their learning in English class, five high school students were selected to deliver speeches about various topics that they were interested in. The TEDx event was an opportunity for our students to talk about their passions, culture, identity, and how they relate to the future.
We interviewed Ms. Alice Nazareth, our Secondary English and Psychology Teacher about her thought process in planning for the TEDx event.
1. What was the objective of organizing the TEDx event at NIS? How does it support student learning?
The first TEDx event at Nibras brought a new opportunity to students- an opportunity to share their innovative ideas and thoughts. This was not an experience focussed only on the English class but on all students of Grades 11 and 12. Students feel passionate about so many things and I strongly believe that they can teach us a lot more about the fast-changing world if we let them. This was a golden opportunity to let them show us the world through their eyes.
2. How was the experience preparing for TEDx?
It was interesting. It definitely was hectic- from the process of acquiring the license to preparing the students and setting up everything. The whole process was nerve-wracking but infinitely rewarding. I was very humbled to see the talent that our students have and I am so happy that I got to be a part of the whole experience.
3. What can you say about your 5 students who participated in the TEDx Nibras International School Youth?
These 5 speakers were chosen for their palpable energy and the passion with which they spoke. Proud is an understatement for what I feel about them right now. They have worked so incredibly hard and have maturely taken all of the feedback and constructive criticism they were given. I could not imagine TEDx Nibras opening with stronger speakers than them.
4. What do you hope for next academic year?
I do have some big dreams for TEDx at Nibras next year. Now that we have started and have received overwhelmingly positive responses from teachers and students alike, I would like to make it bigger and better. We hope to invite even more students to get involved next year.