TEDxLas Hayas College Youth

Speakers

Speakers may not be confirmed. Check the event website for the latest lineup.

• Andrea Anell Juárez

  Student

  Andrea is a 16 year old student who is currently in her 10th grade. She is someone who enjoys learning new things and being involved in different activities at school. Over time, she has grown up as an outgoing person and committed both academically and externally. Outside of school, Andrea enjoys hobbies such as sleeping, watching movies and shows, and exercising. These activities help her relax, stay creative, and connect with other people. She also likes spending time with friends and family, listening to music, and trying new experiences. She is interested in topics related to everyday life, especially how small choices, habits, and attitudes can influence our future. Through her talk, she hopes people can relate to what she says, feel comfortable reflecting on her own life, and leave with a positive and practical idea that can apply daily.

• Antonella Bautista Aguilar

  Student

  My name is Antonella, and I am a fourth-semester student at Las Hayas School. I consider myself a cheerful and friendly person with a positive attitude and a constant willingness to learn and improve. Academically, I maintain an outstanding performance, as I dedicate myself responsibly and consistently to my studies. I am a hardworking, organized, and committed person, dedicated to each of the goals I set for myself. Furthermore, I am known for being caring and empathetic, qualities that allow me to thrive in different environments and work collaboratively. I aspire to fully develop as a person and build a solid future through effort, discipline, and values. I am always looking for ways to grow both personally and academically, as well as to contribute positively to society. I believe that education is a fundamental tool for generating a positive and lasting impact on my community.

• Azul Fernanda Carreón García

  Student

  Azul is 18 years old and in her sixth semester of high school. From a young age, she has felt a deep fascination with ideas, languages, and the ways in which people understand one another. She finds in creative writing, theater, and art a space where thought, emotions, and words converge. A lover of languages, Azul is constantly learning with the goal of becoming a polyglot and using communication as a tool for cultural and human connection. She is interested in international affairs and the power of language to build bridges, question realities, and open conversations that truly matter. Creative by nature, she writes and creates from observation and sensitivity. She believes that ideas, when expressed with intention and presence, can transform perspectives and leave a lasting impact.

• Cecilia Cai Wu

  Student

  Cecilia Cai Wu is a student living between two cultures. When she arrived in Mexico, she discovered that the challenge wasn't just learning a new language, but also understanding different ways of communicating and relating to others. During this process, she experienced moments of confusion and loneliness, and sometimes felt like she didn't fully belong anywhere. But this intercultural experience taught her to value and appreciate the people around her, and to see the world with a more open mind, accepting different cultures. Cecilia understood that living between cultures doesn't mean losing yourself, but rather recognizing the parts you can still improve. With her story, she invites us to reflect on cultural differences, not only as a challenge, but also as an opportunity to understand others and learn to be grateful

• Cheyenne Rosas Hernández

  Student

  Cheyenne is a 17-year-old born on July 20, 2008, in Athens, Georgia, USA. She is currently in her final semester of high school at Colegio Las Hayas. She recently participated in an intensive law course at St. Peter's College, Oxford University. Her major is International Law with a dual degree. She is currently learning Portuguese because she is interested in languages. At the beginning of August, she will travel to China to study the language for a year. She will already be fluent in four languages: Spanish, Chinese, English, and Portuguese. She plans to take the C1 English certification exam this year. She lives in Xalapa with her parents and is an only child. Her goal is to improve herself and take international courses to build global connections, hoping for financial and personal success in her studies.

• Constanza Leyva Fernández

  Student

  My name is Constanza Leyva Fernández, I'm 16 years old, and I'm in my fourth semester of high school. I consider myself passionate about art, science, communication, and personal growth. From a young age, I've had a great passion for speaking as a way to understand myself, connect with others, and as a form of expression. I have a strong interest in medicine, which is the career I'd like to pursue in the future. I'm also interested in languages and education. Currently, I'm the Academic Secretary for the seventh edition of HAYAS MUN, where I can express my thoughts, contribute ideas, and learn about new events in the world every day. When I speak in public, I mainly focus on the importance of awareness, empathy, and finding and defending your own voice. My goal is to create spaces where we can reflect on the fact that youth isn't just a phase, but a time when we can make a real impact.

• Constanza Michaelle González Domínguez

  Student

  I am a 16-year-old high school student at Colegio Las Hayas, currently in my second semester. I am passionate about reading and poetry, and I value critical thinking, empathy, and strong values. I also strive to raise awareness about mental health. I enjoy writing and researching both scientific and everyday topics, and I play volleyball casually with my school team, an activity I use to develop teamwork skills and stay in shape. I have several goals for the coming years, but my biggest objective right now is to gain admission to the medical school at Universidad Veracruzana. I consider this to be my academic and personal purpose.

• Diego García Moreno

  Student

  I'm 16 years old and currently a student at Colegio Las Hayas. I'm in my fourth semester of high school, and I'd like to participate in TEDx because I feel it's an opportunity that could open many doors for me in the future. It's also an experience from which I can learn a lot. I currently play soccer for the Mapaches de Las Hayas team and American football for the Zorros Dorados de Xalapa team. I play both sports simultaneously because they're two things I've been passionate about since I was little. I'm also hoping to get an athletic scholarship in college, and if not in soccer, I might try American football. The point is to have more options and not give up on any sport, since it's something that benefits our well-being and health, helps us make friends, and teaches us to work as a team.

• Dylan Efrén Pérez Cárcamo

  Student

  I'm a quiet and thoughtful 16-year-old boy. In my free time, I like to listen to music, think, and write down ideas or messages that help me express what's on my mind. I enjoy talking and connecting with people, especially when there's trust, because words matter to me. I like creating things, like writing or videos, and spending time editing or using my phone to express my thoughts. I'm in high school, and although there are some subjects I find difficult, I always try to improve and do my best. I'm a persistent person who learns from my mistakes and doesn't give up easily. I consider myself empathetic, attentive, and loyal; when someone matters to me, I'm there for them and offer genuine support. Sometimes I doubt myself, but I keep moving forward with the intention of growing, maturing, and becoming a better version of myself

• Felipe Amadeo Flores Espinosa

  Student

  At school, I have also worked in logistics for the music workshop, supporting the organization of events. I have also participated in art competitions, achieving second place at the state level. I have also been recognized in debate awards, specifically at MUN, where I recently won the Outstanding Table Attendant award. I have also supported several charity projects with the ECYD group, where we bring aid and a message of hope to rural communities. I have also ventured into the political arena after being invited to join AP Estudiantil, where we have been developing major projects that will be implemented this year to improve the lives of Xalapa residents. In recent months, I also joined QUETZAMUN. A group of young people specialized in debate where I have had the opportunity to improve my skills as a debater, as well as the great opportunity to carry out projects. I consider myself a person who likes challenges and someone who seeks to improve every day

• Fernando Velasco de la Fuente

  Student

  My name is Fernando Velasco de la Fuente. I was born on March 19, 2008, in Xalapa, Veracruz, the city where I have lived ever since. I have studied at Colegio Las Hayas since I was very young, specifically from kindergarten to the present, where I am in my fourth semester of high school. I have always done very well in school. There isn't really any subject that I find too difficult; however, I have a special interest in biology, plants, and animals. I also train in mountain biking and I am fascinated by mountains and volcanoes. This passion has led me, at the age of 17, to climb the highest volcano in my country and the seventh highest overall, from my front door to the summit by bicycle in 12 hours. I aspire to climb many more mountains and continue practicing the sport I love so much.

• Gabriela Barragán Rivera

  Student

  My name is Gabriela Barragán Rivera, I'm 17 years old and will soon be 18. I'm a junior at Las Hayas High School. To date, I've participated in 12 Model United Nations (MUN) conferences and one TEDx event in The Hague. Currently, I'm the Secretary-General for the seventh edition of HayasMUN Public speaking is something I truly enjoy. It makes me feel heard in a world where teenagers my age are often ignored or overlooked. Being heard is very important to me, and that's why I decided to speak about the importance of truly listening to others in a world so accustomed to ignoring Whenever I can, I help a friend, a classmate, or even someone I don't know very well, because you never know when you'll need help or when you'll need someone to lean on, someone to listen to you. I believe it's very important to emphasize how fundamental it is to truly listen in order to help, and not just listen in order to respond

• Gabriela Solei Cuevas Marín

  Student

  Gabriela Solei Cuevas Marín is a 18-year-old student with a deep curiosity about life, emotions, and human connection. She is passionate about science and plans to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, driven by her love for animals and her interest in understanding living beings and their behavior. Outside of academics, Solei enjoys painting, especially working with acrylics, where she expresses emotions and ideas through creative and free styles. She is also dedicated to fitness and personal growth, balancing school, training, and creative projects. Solei is particularly interested in storytelling and using personal experiences to connect with others. Through her talk, inspired by her grandmother’s experience with dementia, she hopes to encourage people to value time, relationships, and the small moments we often take for granted. She believes that sharing vulnerability can create empathy and meaningful conversations.

• Gretel Campero Hernández

  Student

  My name is Gretel Campero Hernández. I was born on December 22, 2009, in Xalapa, Veracruz, where I still live. Since kindergarten, I have attended Colegio Las Hayas, where I am currently in my second semester of high school. I have dedicated a large part of my life to sports; I currently play volleyball and go to the gym. I have also dedicated a significant part of my life to music, as I have played the piano since a young age. My academic goal is to study interior design or landscape architecture, since architecture has been present in my family life and has always interested me.

• Isabella Martínez Aguilar

  Student

  Sixteen-year-old Isabella Martínez Aguilar is in her fourth semester of high school at Colegio Las Hayas, where she developed a special interest in the rigor of mathematics and the dynamics of Model United Nations (MUN). This combination has allowed her to cultivate analytical thinking while also understanding the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing global issues. Outside of academics, tennis is her main discipline for staying focused and active. However, her most personal side lies in art; painting and clay modeling are her favorite forms of expression, as she enjoys the process of transforming ideas into something tangible. She considers herself a multifaceted person who constantly seeks a balance between logic, sports, and creativity.

• Jennifer Rodríguez Pacheco

  Philosophy Teacher

  Born on August 18, 2000, Jennifer grew up in the city of Agua Dulce, Veracruz. Later, at eighteen, she moved to Xalapa to pursue a degree in Philosophy at the Universidad Veracruzana, graduating with honors at twenty-one. After completing her academic studies, she found in teaching a space to practice philosophy. Currently, at twenty-five, she works as a Humanities teacher at Colegio Las Hayas. Passionate about literature, Jennifer sees writing as a means to reflect, share experiences, and explore ideas. A self-described polymath, she has cultivated diverse interests, including drawing and painting, learning languages such as English and German, and a lifelong affinity for sports. She views life as a continuous exploration, guided by curiosity, lifelong learning, a love of knowledge, and the search for meaning.

• Johnny Scott Sánchez Domínguez

  Student

  I was born in the beautiful city of Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico, also known as the City of Flowers. Its beautiful green landscapes and humid climate, as well as its charming streets, have been a part of my life. I am 18 years old at the time of this speech. Since childhood, I have always been fascinated by science fiction and fantasy literature and films. In my free time, I enjoy playing guitar and video games with my friends. I am a 1st Poom black belt in Taekwondo. I am currently in my sixth semester of high school at Colegio Las Hayas. I aspire to be a meteorologist and work for the National Meteorological Service after completing my studies. I believe that studying and forecasting weather conditions is fundamental to safeguarding lives, and it also encompasses theoretical concepts of physics, chemistry, and mathematics that have always fascinated me. I firmly believe in the ethical duty to help others.

• José Pablo Contreras Domínguez

  Student

  José Pablo Contreras Domínguez (17 years old) is a student from Veracruz at Colegio Las Hayas. Music, film, reminiscing, healthy living, his family, and especially his friends, occupy a central place in his way of thinking and acting. Through transformative experiences at the regional, national, and state levels in robotics, mechatronics, and Model United Nations competitions, as well as participating in numerous youth organizations in his community for student empowerment, and studying acoustic guitar, acoustic drums, and choir, he continues to build his learning and understanding of people, friendship, the power of words, dialogue, communication, the ability to lead large teams, critical thinking, creativity, and love.

• Luca Samaniego Casasa

  Student

  My name is Luca Samaniego Casasa, and I was born and raised in Xalapa, Veracruz. I am currently 17 years old and in my fourth semester of high school at Colegio Las Hayas, where I have had the opportunity to develop in various academic and social areas, such as my role as treasurer in the school's Model United Nations. Beyond my academic life, to which I dedicate myself fully, I am a music enthusiast, which has led me to practice piano for over a year, and I also enjoy film. I have a great passion for sports, training in boxing and aspiring to compete someday, although I also greatly enjoy running, hiking, cycling, and other activities. Through TEDx, I hope to continue growing as a person and developing all my skills in order to achieve my goals, one step at a time.

• Luka Martín del Campo Robinson

  Student

  My name is Luka Martín del Campo Robinson, and I live in Xalapa, Veracruz. I'm currently in my second semester of high school at Colegio Las Hayas. I enjoy playing all kinds of sports, but my favorite is tennis. I really like the school I attend and how it has helped me academically and socially. I spend a lot of time with my immediate family. I have a brother who currently lives in the state of Puebla. I'm not very outgoing, but I've always gotten along relatively well with my social circle. I'm very happy with this stage of my life, and I'm always grateful for where I am.

• María Fernanda Mejía Olvera

  Student

  She is a loving, kind, polite, cultured, sociable, adventurous, friendly, cheerful, fun-loving, authentic, intelligent, disciplined, and respectful person Her hobbies include socializing, listening to music, dancing, relaxing in her room, painting, playing sports, going to cafes and the movies, going to soccer games and exploring new places At three months old, she received a critical health diagnosis. At four, she contracted Kawasaki disease, and at eleven, she contracted COVID-19, as she was a child who got sick easily. During her childhood, an important factor that helped shape her personality was her family: her mother, her grandmother, and her aunt and uncle, whom she loves dearly and thanks for their attention, love, and support throughout the different stages of her development. Their support facilitated her life's journey, both academically, athletically, and socially. Their mission, however, is to make her happy and ensure she enjoys life with the respect it deserves

• María José Flores Ramírez

  Student

  María José Flores Ramírez was born on August 11th in Xalapa, Veracruz. She is 16 years old and has a sister named Rebeca. She was diagnosed with spherocytosis, a condition she has lived with ever since. She is allergic to ants and also to propofol, the drug that killed Michael Jackson. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, painting, singing, and spending time with her friends and family. She also enjoys playing board games and watching movies. Her favorite food is cochinita pibil (a type of Mexican street food). She does well in school and fulfills her academic responsibilities. María José balances her studies with the activities she enjoys and is very close to her family.

• María José Roldán Galindo

  Student

  My name is María José Roldán Galindo, and I am 16 years old. I was born on January 11, 2010, in Xalapa, Veracruz. I am the middle child, three years younger than my sister and six years older than my brother. I have a dog named Chata. I am a student at Colegio Las Hayas and am currently in my second semester of high school. I really enjoy going out with friends or spending time with my family, especially my immediate family. Over the years, I have played many sports, but now I do bodyweight training, which is a mix of gym workouts and bodyweight exercises. I do very well in school; I have a 9.6 GPA, and when I grow up, I want to be a doctor. I know it's a lot of work, but I know I can do it. I'm not a fan of sharing my personal life, but if it helps other people or has a positive impact on them, I'm happy to be there.

• Mariana Castañeda Sánchez

  Student

  My name is Mariana, I'm 18 years old, and I've always lived in Xalapa, Veracruz. I consider myself a very outgoing, cheerful, and sociable person. I really enjoy talking, meeting new people, and spending time with my friends because friendship is very important to me. I deeply value the people in my life and always try to be there for them when they need me, whether it's by listening or supporting them in any way I can. I also really enjoy helping people because it makes me feel good to know I can make a difference, even a small one. I'm quite emotional and empathetic; I feel things intensely, and that allows me to understand others better. I like to play sports because it helps me clear my mind and stay active. Overall, I'm a positive, approachable person who enjoys sharing time and experiences with the people I love.

• Melissa Macías Tlapa

  Student

  My name is Melissa, I'm 18 years old, and I really enjoy chatting, painting, cooking, and playing sports. I'm a senior at Las Hayas High School, and I work four days a week at a coffee shop. I love movies, animals, and exploring new things. I'd like to explore as much of the world as possible. I've had four jobs. I like being a very active person, always doing something; I don't like being idle. My favorite color is blue, and my favorite food is pasta. I live with my mom, brother, grandmother, and two dogs. I enjoy meeting new people. I don't go out much; I prefer doing other things, either with friends or alone. I don't have a partner, and I don't think I'll go to university right now. I decided to work abroad as a nanny. I'm not very studious. I'm extroverted, expressive, and a good listener. I want to do many things for my future. I'm a bit chaotic, but in a good way.

• Milena Rubio Núñez

  Student

  I'm 17 years old and currently in my fourth semester of high school at Colegio Las Hayas, where I've participated in various activities such as Model United Nations, school projects, and previous TEDx events. I'm passionate about the arts; I dance three different styles, play the flute, am starting my own handmade clothing brand, and really enjoy painting or reading in my free time. I'd like to consider myself a curious person who, to the best of my ability, always tries to resolve my questions or delve deeper into the things that interest me. I think I tend to overthink things, but that also means I can be very analytical, questioning many of the things I observe and learn. I really enjoy getting to the root of problems or situations. I decided to participate in TEDx for the second time because I have a topic I've been thinking about for a long time, and I believe it's very important to share.

• Natalia Itzel Modesti Pérez

  Student

  At 17, Natalia has blossomed into a vibrant young woman brimming with energy and enthusiasm for life. Her passion for dance has been with her since childhood and has transformed into a form of expression that reflects both discipline and joy. Currently a student, she balances her academic responsibilities with the art of moving to the rhythm of music, finding in each step a way to release emotions and connect with others. Her curious and persevering nature drives her to constantly learn, seeking new opportunities for personal and artistic growth. In the classroom, she stands out for her commitment and creativity, while on the dance floor, she exudes confidence and vitality. Natalia dreams of inspiring other young people to discover their talents and live with passion, convinced that education and art are paths that complement and enrich each other.

• Paula García Castellanos

  Student

  My name is Paula García Castellanos, I'm the youngest of three siblings, and I'm currently in my second semester of high school. From a very young age, sports have been a fundamental part of my life; I tried different disciplines until I found volleyball, a sport that not only captivated me but also became an essential part of who I am. Through volleyball, I've had many injuries that have helped me grow and improve in many ways. I've learned about perseverance, discipline, and teamwork, but I've also discovered the impact that sports can have on the mental and emotional health of young people. I've always liked getting good grades, although studying isn't exactly my favorite activity, so I've learned to balance my academic responsibilities with my passion for sports. I'm interested in reflecting on how sports, beyond competition, can influence the lives of teenagers and society today, both positively and negatively.

• Paulina Alamillo Morayta

  Student

  She is an 18-year-old student driven by curiosity, balance, and a desire for personal growth. She has always been passionate about sports, having practiced both track and field and basketball, experiences that taught her discipline, resilience, and teamwork. Sports have played an important role in shaping her character and approach to challenges. Beyond athletics, she has a deep appreciation for nature and enjoys slowing down to notice and value the little things in everyday life. This perspective influences how she views the world and her own experiences. She dreams of studying pastry arts, where she hopes to combine creativity, precision, and passion to create meaningful experiences for others. Through her journey, she has learned the importance of gratitude and perspective, values she hopes to share as a young speaker.

• Regina Burgos Landa

  Student

  My name is Regina Burgos Landa, and I was born on May 7, 2010, in the city of Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico. I live with my mom and my younger brother; my parents divorced when I was 9 years old, so my dad does not live with us, but he visits us every weekend. Since I was little, my parents enrolled me in dance classes, a sport that I have loved and practiced for approximately 10 years of my life. I have won and participated in multiple competitions, both regional and national. I also love reading; in the last three years, I have read approximately 200 books. Currently, I am studying high school at Colegio Las Hayas, a place where I have been for only four years, but I consider transferring here one of the best decisions I have made, since I have been able to make many friends over the years.

• Regina Domíngiez Cruz

  Student

  My name is Regina Domínguez Cruz, and as an 18-year-old, my most concrete lesson so far is that every experience, big or small, leaves a valuable lesson, and that true progress comes from daring to try. I deeply believe that this thought is what has led me to become the young woman I am today, as I have developed as a dedicated and committed individual, working towards my goals. I have participated in five Model United Nations conferences, a TEDx event, and I am currently the Secretary-General of the Model United Nations at my high school, Colegio Las Hayas, where I am studying for my Bachelor's degree. I also run my own flower shop. Personally, I consider myself a very cheerful and creative person, eager to learn and grow. I would like to leave a positive mark on the world, and I know that one way to achieve this is by speaking out in front of an audience and sharing positive thoughts and ideas that motivate others to make a difference.

• Sofía Sigala Ocampo

  Student

  At 17, Sofía Sigala Ocampo is establishing herself as a rising voice of her generation. Currently in her final semester of high school, she combines her academic pursuits with remarkable communication skills. Her career highlights include two TEDx talks, experiences that have solidified her passion for public speaking and sharing transformative ideas with an audience. Beyond the stage, Sofía embodies a dynamic and disciplined lifestyle. She finds the perfect balance between playing tennis and training in Muay Thai, disciplines she complements with a rich inner life dedicated to reading, painting, and video games. With an authentic personality, Sofía isn't afraid to challenge conventions: she's an avowed Nutella enthusiast and, interestingly, one of the few people who prefers to keep pizza out of her diet. In essence, she's a young, creative, and athletic leader in constant evolution.

• Valeria Dorantes Parra

  Student

  I am Valeria Dorantes Parra, a Mexican born in 2009. From a very young age, I discovered that my world gained meaning through art and reading; drawing, in particular, has led me to participate in various competitions where I have been able to put my creativity to the test. However, beyond technical achievements, my philosophy of life is simple yet firm: what is truly essential is having the autonomy to live according to our own choices. I am defined by an insatiable curiosity. I am someone who constantly seeks new opportunities and hobbies that challenge my perspective. At this stage, my priority is to collect meaningful experiences, exploring new horizons and enjoying constant learning in the company of my family. I consider myself a multifaceted person who understands life as a canvas open to exploration and change.

• Víctor Darío Hernández Martín

  Student

  I am a law student at Universidad Panamericana, Guadalajara campus, and I am interested in analyzing how ideas, language, and the environment influence the way we think and make decisions. For several years, I have been drawn to critical thinking, philosophy, and the observation of everyday social phenomena that often go unnoticed I was a member of the Speakers Toastmasters Guadalajara public speaking club from October 2023 to September 2025, where I developed communication and persuasive speaking skills. I participated in two district-level public speaking competitions: one in English, in which I won second place in February 2025, and another in Spanish, held in August 2025. I am currently pursuing a Harvard Certificate of Expertise through the edX platform, with an emphasis on rhetoric, persuasive writing, leadership, and communication. My central interest is understanding how the conditions in which we live shape the body, attention, and the capacity to develop independent thought

• Ximena Martínez Castillo

  Student

  My name is Ximena Martínez Castillo, I'm 17 years old, and I'm about to start my sixth semester of high school, a stage I'm very excited about because I feel like I'm getting closer to fulfilling my dreams. I like many things, including tennis, participating in Model United Nations (MUN), conversation, traveling, biology, and spending time with my family, who have always been my greatest support. Over the years, I've had the opportunity to have very important experiences, such as giving TEDx-style talks, which have allowed me to share my ideas, my experiences, and the lessons I've learned from each one—something I truly enjoy because I love connecting with people. When I graduate, I plan to study medicine, a decision that makes me very happy, since I'd like my work to change lives for the better and contribute something positive to the world.

• Zoë Kazemier Márquez

  Student

  Zoë Kazemier is a 17-year-old high school student with a deep curiosity about the world around here. She has always found comfort in reading, whether it’s getting lost in a novel for hours or discovering new ideas in the day’s news articles. Writing is another passion of hers; she enjoys expressing her thoughts on paper, experimenting with different styles, and reflecting on her experiences. Outside of academics, Zoë loves going on long walks, especially when she needs time to think or simply unwind. Being outdoors makes her feel inspired and grounded at the same time. She is also actively involved in school life, participating in as many events as she can grasp, both academically and socially. Zoë values these experiences because they allow her to connect with others and grow as a person. Going forward, she is especially excited about the possibility of going abroad and exploring new cultures.