Swastikaa Issar

Activist, Brainstormer, Concerned citizen, Event planner, Idea generator, Philanthropist, Student

Visionary student leader at Jumeirah College and changemaker with a dynamic blend of academic excellence and a strong passion for public speaking, sustainability, education, and youth advocacy.

Literature (analysing versatile perspectives), Languages, Ever-Evolving Technology and Innovation.

Sustainability and how it shapes our daily lives, as well as its positive impacts and innovations that will benefit our planet.

Communication, Event Organisation, Leadership, Mentoring, Public Speaking, TEDx Speaker

My TED story started with curiosity. I’ve always been drawn to ideas that make you pause, rethink, and see the world a little differently. Watching TED and TEDx talks showed me how powerful one idea can be—how it can cross cultures, languages, and generations when it’s shared with conviction. When I had the chance to step onto the TEDx stage myself, it wasn’t just an event—it was a turning point. Standing there, I realised that TED isn’t just about giving a talk, it’s about creating a connection. It’s about turning thoughts into actions, stories into experiences, and people into possibilities. In that moment, I discovered that storytelling isn’t a performance—it’s a way to spark change. Since then, I’ve carried that lesson into everything I do—whether it’s leading committees, representing my school, or engaging in debates. I’ve learned that the real magic of TED lies not only in the speakers but in the team that brings those voices forward. Behind every impactful talk is a group of organisers who believed in the power of ideas and created the space for them to thrive. For me, joining the TED organising team is about giving back to the platform that shaped me. I want to help others step onto that stage with the same courage I once found, and to build an event where the audience doesn’t just listen, but leaves transformed. TED has been part of my journey of finding my voice—now I want to be part of helping others find theirs.

1. Blending Humor with Seriousness 2. Seeing Multiple Perspectives 3. Making Complex Things Sound Simple