Media Release
Mangaluru, Feb 9: TEDxStAloysius is an independently organised TED event that centres on celebrating ideas that are truly worth sharing and amplifying. Hosted by St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), the event brings together a diverse and dynamic line-up of speakers from a wide range of fields, offering them a platform to share their inspiring journeys, powerful ideas, and unique perspectives.
The event actively promotes the exchange of knowledge while fostering creativity, collaboration, and meaningful engagement among participants. Through a series of thought-provoking talks and interactive sessions, TEDxStAloysius creates space for impactful conversations that inspire positive change and help strengthen bonds within the community.
About TED
TED is a non-profit organization devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading. Started in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design converged, and today covers almost all topics from science to business to global issues, in more than 100 languages. The two annual TED Conferences invite the world's leading thinkers and doers to speak for 18 minutes or less. Meanwhile, independently run TED events help to share ideas in communities around the world.
About TEDx
TEDx is a grassroots initiative, created in the spirit of TED’s overall mission to research and discover “Ideas worth Spreading.” TEDx brings the spirit of TED to local communities around the globe through TEDx events. These events are organized by passionate individuals who seek to uncover new ideas and share the latest research in their local areas that spark conversations in their communities. TEDx events include live speakers and recorded TED Talks, and are organized independently under a free license granted by TED. These events are not controlled by TED, but event organizers agree to abide by our format and are offered guidelines for curation, speaker coaching, event organizing and more. They learn from us and each other. More than 3000 events are now held annually.
St Aloysius (Deemed To Be University)
Established in the year 1880, nestled on top of the Idgah hill, boasting over 7,000 students, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University) is a cornerstone of academic achievement in Mangalore serving as a vibrant centre of talent, creativity, and ambition. With a rich 145-year Jesuit heritage, it shines as a symbol of comprehensive education and values. The renowned St Aloysius Chapel, embellished with stunning frescoes, remains a significant draw, attracting visitors with its artistic and spiritual beauty. The university continues to motivate generations through influential events, cutting-edge facilities, and a dedication to excellence.
Through its Motto, Lucet et Ardet, (Latin for 'Shine to Enkindle') the Institution churns individuals who become men and women for and with others.
Theme
Every idea begins quietly, a spark, a whisper, a thread weaving itself in the corners of our mind. Some remain unspoken, others grow into stories we share, and a very few become powerful enough to move the world. These silent threads, though fragile, carry the potential to shape our lives, our choices, and the future itself.
This year’s TEDx theme, ‘Unwritten Threads of Thoughts,’ gathers us to explore those unseen connections of imagination, curiosity, and reflection that guide human creativity. It is a reminder that every breakthrough, every innovation, and every transformation begins as an unwritten thought, waiting to be voiced, shared, and woven into reality, into Life.
As we come together, we celebrate not only the stories already told but also the countless ones yet to be written, the invisible threads that connect us to possibility, to one another, and to the boundless futures that are still being woven by our hands.
Speakers
1. Hritik Sharma
Hritik Sharma is an entrepreneur, educator, and podcaster dedicated to advancing India’s education landscape. He founded GK’s Institutions and Eduholik, platforms committed to academic excellence and holistic development. Hritik serves as a counselor and operating officer for CBSE-affiliated schools and is an associate of the National Education Policy board. Through his Eduholik_Hritik podcast, he shares insights on education and personal growth, inspiring youth to drive meaningful change.
2. Simrun Chopra
Simrun Chopra is a certified nutritionist, fitness coach, and entrepreneur dedicated to redefining holistic wellness for women in India. She founded Nourish with Sim, promoting sustainable health through science-based nutrition and fitness. Using her own experiences with overcoming health challenges, she empowers thousands with practical wellness education. Recognized as one of YourStory’s 100 Emerging Women Leaders, she advocates for women’s strength and self-care.
3. Mariyam Hussain
Mariyam Hussain is a prominent fashion stylist, influencer, content creator, and designer from Mumbai. Renowned for her creative vision and trendsetting style, she has built a strong Instagram presence centered around elegance, individuality, and bold fashion. She gained widespread recognition for styling the Sharks on Shark Tank India, showcasing her credibility in the industry. Mariyam inspires others to express themselves fearlessly through fashion, blending luxury vibes with innovative editorial looks.
4. Dr P P Devan
Dr P P Devan is a veteran ENT specialist in Mangaluru with over 42 years of experience at A J Hospital. He is a highly respected MS degree holder and former professor who uses the latest medical tech for patient care. A battle against a stroke that almost cost him his life pushed him to turn towards a path that was focused on turning challenges into opportunities. His approach is to provide patients treatment that is accessible and in line with advancements in current healthcare technology, thereby displaying commitment and diligence to his profession.
5. Leeza Kiran Rodrigues
Leeza Kiran Rodrigues is an educator, wellness practitioner, media host, and community speaker with an MBA in marketing. She is the co-founder of Jai’s Health House, a natural therapy clinic dedicated to holistic healing and well-being. Formerly a credit analyst in the UAE, she returned to India to focus on wellness, education, and social impact. Leeza hosts the Konkani podcast Carmel Café and the television talk show Namaskar Mesthri, where she explores conversations around humanity, relationships, and redefining success through balance, meaning, and happiness.
6. Advika Shetty
Advika Shetty is a nationally recognised dancer, actor, and Yakshagana artiste, popularly known as the ‘Little Princess of Tulunadu’ and a ‘Tuluvasiri’ title holder. From a young age, she has been closely connected to the performing arts, representing regional culture with commitment and grace. With over 1,500 performances to her credit, including 200+ Yakshagana shows, and several awards, she gained national recognition through reality shows and the Best Child Artist Award at the Coastal Film Awards (2022), reflecting her talent and dedication.
7. Zabi Khan
Zabi Khan is an Indian animal rights activist, a United Nations awardee, and a Padma Shri nominee, widely recognised for his work in rescuing and rehabilitating animals. After gaining national recognition through MTV Roadies, he has used his platform to advocate strongly for animal welfare and protection. His desire to protect animals led him to establish an animal shelter at a young age. Contributing to the development of one of the country’s earliest animal-friendly educational environments, Zabi Khan continues to inspire young people across India to take compassionate action and stand up for voiceless beings.
8. Prashanth S Nayaka
Prashanth Nayaka, founder of ChaayaArtLight, is an award-winning filmmaker, photographer, cinematographer, and storyteller, celebrated for his powerful and impactful visual storytelling. He is a recipient of the prestigious JacksonWild Green Oscars, making it the first Kannada film to ever receive this honour, the highest recognition in the world of wildlife filmmaking. Through his craft, Prashanth continues to inspire audiences by beautifully bridging art, nature, and human emotion.
9. Colonel Arun Iyer
Colonel Arun Iyer is a decorated Indian Army veteran. With decades of distinguished military experience, he has led several challenging operations across India’s borders and served in some of the most demanding environments. After his military tenure, Col Iyer transitioned into leadership development and corporate training, where he now mentors professionals, students, and entrepreneurs on resilience, teamwork, and decision-making under pressure. His sessions blend military precision with emotional intelligence, offering rare insights into courage, adaptability, and the human spirit.
10. Hemant Sharma
Hemant Sharma, co-founder of Claygrounds by Plaza, is a multifaceted sports entrepreneur, influencer, and creative professional based in India. Claygrounds by Plaza is a platform that merges sports, culture, and community engagement. Additionally, he is associated with The Base, an initiative linked to global sportswear brand Adidas. In 2021, he was honoured as the ‘Sports Entrepreneur of the Year,’ a testament to his impact and dedication to the field.
Dr Melwyn D’Cunha, SJ, pro vice-chancellor, St Aloysius (Deemed to be University); Dr Dinesh Nayak, convenor, TedxStAloyius; Aldrina, co- convenor, TedxStAloyius; Chandrakala, PRO; Rayyan Zahi Khan, student co-ordinator, TedxStAloysius; and Aavya A, student, PR head, TedxStAloysius, were present at the press meet.