Dastan Khdir

Brainstormer, Business adviser, Business leader, Connector, Consultant, Investor, Project manager, Startup

I’m a visionary community builder with a passion for empowering youth, nurturing innovation, and creating spaces for meaningful dialogue and development. As the founder of the iTALK Foundation, I lead initiatives that spark inspiration, encourage bold ideas, and equip young minds to take action toward a better future.

I’m Passionate About Diplomacy Diplomacy, to me, is the art of building connections that bridge divides and create lasting solutions. I’m passionate about using diplomacy not just as a tool for negotiation but as a means to foster understanding, collaboration, and positive change. Whether it's empowering youth to engage in global conversations or facilitating cross-cultural partnerships, I believe diplomacy is about listening, empathizing, and finding common ground. I’m driven by the belief that meaningful dialogue can solve problems, break barriers, and open up new possibilities. In my work, I aim to bring people together, inspire mutual respect, and use diplomacy to create a space where diverse voices are not only heard but truly valued. For me, diplomacy isn’t just about politics—it’s about people, ideas, and the future we create together.

Youth aren’t just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the changemakers of today. Too often, young people are seen as a future investment, but I believe their creativity, courage, and energy are exactly what the world needs now. When we listen to their voices, fund their ideas, and trust their leadership, we unlock solutions that are bold, fresh, and deeply rooted in hope. Through platforms like iTALK, Sulaimani Toastmasters, and Diplomacy Talk, I’ve seen what happens when youth are given the mic and the means—they rise, lead, and uplift others. My idea worth spreading is simple: invest in youth leadership today, and we won’t just prepare for a better future—we’ll build it now.

My TED story begins with a simple belief: that powerful ideas have the potential to change everything. As an attendee, I was captivated by the way speakers could shift perspectives, spark action, and bring new ways of thinking to life. It inspired me to see beyond the surface and look for ways to connect people and ideas in meaningful ways. That inspiration led me to organize TEDx events in my community, where I could provide others the same opportunity to share their ideas and inspire change. Each event became a platform for voices that had something valuable to say—stories that were raw, real, and full of potential to make a difference. Through my TED journey, I’ve learned that it’s not just about spreading ideas—it’s about creating spaces where ideas can grow, thrive, and connect with those who need to hear them the most. And that’s something I’m passionate about every single day.

People don’t know I’m good at finding the hidden potential in people and ideas. I have an instinct for spotting talent, even when it's not obvious, and for turning challenges into opportunities. Whether it’s guiding a startup through a tough spot or helping someone find their voice, I’m great at seeing the bigger picture and connecting the dots in ways that others might miss. I also have a knack for making complex things feel simple, whether that’s breaking down leadership strategies or making diplomatic conversations feel accessible to everyone. It’s this blend of creativity, patience, and problem-solving that I bring to every project I take on.