Past TEDx event

TEDxGIIS Dubai

The Third Space

Took placeOctober 11, 2025
LocationDubai, Dubayy, United Arab Emirates
FormatYouth
"In the silence between black and white, your voice could be the spark that brings The Third Space to light." - TEDxYouth GIIS DUBAI In a world that often sees things in black and white, we invite you to explore the space in between — the grey area, or as we call it, ‘The Third Space’. This is where boundaries blur, ideas collide, and entirely new perspectives emerge. At TEDxYouth GIISDubai, we dive into conversations that challenge the norm and embrace the complexity of modern life. From startling science to stirring success stories — bold breakthroughs to brilliant artistry, The Third Space is where it all intersects. We welcome you to explore a theme that speaks to everyone, from youth to millennials. It’s a space full of untapped potential, unasked questions, and unexplored truths. We talk about it, we feel it—but have we truly understood it? The talk should speak to the unexplored perspectives that push boundaries, question convention, and reflect the layered world we live in. Whether you're challenging societal norms, introducing futuristic ideas, or simply offering a story that lives in the “in-between,” your voice belongs on our stage. Join us at GIIS Dubai as we step beyond the obvious and uncover ‘The Third Space’.

Speakers

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

  • Ajitesh Veeramachaneni

    Ajitesh Veeramachaneni is the Head Boy at Global Indian International School (GIIS), Abu Dhabi and established the school’s first TEDx conference and Model UN program during his tenure. Selected as one of four students across the UAE for Expo 2024’s Next Gen World Majlis, he engaged in discussions on emerging technologies with global policy experts. Driven by curiosity for how innovation can solve real problems, he is currently researching with a PhD mentor on cost-effective IoT wearables that could help reduce heat-related health risks for outdoor workers. A Harvard MUN awardee and mentor to 150+ delegates, Ajitesh finds purpose in creating platforms for others to share their voice.

  • Asmii Sundoja

    I’m Asmii Sundoja, a high school student passionate about exploring ideas and stepping beyond my comfort zone. I speak about the “Third Space” — the in-between where certainty meets doubt, and where growth, creativity, and real learning happen. Drawing from my experiences navigating challenges and uncertainties, I aim to inspire others to embrace these moments, transform challenges into opportunities, and discover the potential that lies in the unsure areas of life.

  • Devapriya Vinayan

    A passionate leader and aspiring journalist, Devapriya currently serves as the Deputy Head Girl of her school, aiming to leverage the impact of spoken words to merge purpose with action. She is also an avid public speaker who isn't afraid of asking difficult questions, earning her top accolades in various speech, debate and MUN events. An accomplished dancer, guitarist, photographer and writer, she balances artistic talents with academic excellence. In her TEDx talk, Devapriya explores anti-intellectualism in an age flooded with information. She examines how we process knowledge, questions whether our opinions are our own, and highlights the importance of curiosity and deeper understanding, encouraging us to embrace complexity and resist oversimplification.

  • Harini Prem Anand

    Harini, at just 14 is already a writer, award-winning painter, competitive chess player, karate practitioner, occasional basketball player & public speaker. Currently working on her first book, she combines creativity and rational thinking to challenge the way people see the world. From writing poems to tackling complex debate questions, Harini believes that change begins when we start to question the 'way it's always been done.' With a voice that's both fearless and thoughtful, her aim is simple- to leave people thinking differently than they were 12 minutes ago.

  • Harshni Ramakrishnan

    Harshni is a student at Delhi Private School Dubai and a TEDx speaker passionate about blending science, art, and storytelling to spark fresh perspectives. Her latest talk explores the “third space”—the creative intersection where ideas from different fields collide to inspire innovation and growth. As the founder of a student-led robotics organisation and a science podcast, she thrives at the intersection of creativity and innovation. Harshni constantly seeks new ways to make complex ideas engaging and relatable, inspiring audiences to see the world differently and experience that “I’ve never thought of it that way” moment.

  • Maréva Koulamallah

    Ms. Maréva is the Founder and CEO of MarévaK Consulting, an award-winning tech leader, and a strategic marketing expert whose work bridges innovation, communication, and social impact. A passionate mentor and connector, she empowers brands and individuals to drive meaningful change across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.

  • Rethesh Pradeep Kumar

    Rethesh Pradeep Kumar, 18 year old student entrepreneur who enjoys building things, solving problems and asking questions mostly avoided. He believes that we are growing in a world where every choice, emotion and doubt sits beside a screen, a world where AI isn’t just a tool but is beginning to influence who we are becoming. In this talk, Rethesh explores AI as our “second brain” and the fears, dependencies and hidden comforts we rarely acknowledge but experience.

  • Rithwik Krishna

    Rithwik Krishna is an 11th grader who advocates that you don’t have to fit into just one box to excel. A seasoned MUN debater, Trinity-level pianist, lead in a school musical, and Secretary of his school’s Cultural Council, he channels his passion for the arts toward a greater calling to heal as a future doctor. In his talk, “Is a Jack of All Trades Better than a Master of One?”, he opens up about the struggles and surprising strengths of being a “generalist”. Through his own story, he’ll reveal why exploring different passions can be your biggest advantage, and why it’s not too late to diversify your skills.

  • Sanchay Gupta

    I am an inquisitive 15-year-old coming from GEN-Z, interested in everything about science, satellites and the human mind. My speech focuses on my observations about people and ongoing trends, specifically on the rise of over-obsession/craze, show-off culture and how it affects the different stakeholders in society. Moreover, I will also discuss about how setbacks are a strategic advantage towards living a more meaningful life.

  • Subharna Suruthi

    We’re told belonging is everything. But what if the most powerful growth happens when we don’t belong? In this talk, Subharna takes the audience into “The Third Space” — the strange, electric territory between identities where you’re neither this nor that… and yet more than both. Through stories of silence, sport, loss, and leadership, she reveals a surprising truth: the people who don’t fully fit anywhere often become the ones who create what didn’t exist before — and become most fully themselves.

  • Vandana Deshpande

    Ms Vandana is an inspiring entrepreneur, educator, and advocate for women’s empowerment. As the co-founder and Director of the Samsotech Group, she has helped build a global IT solutions company while championing digital education for young girls. A lifelong learner, marathoner, and proud mother, she embodies the belief that the best is always yet to come.

  • Watfa Abdulkarim

    Ms. Watfa the Head of Human Resources at Habib Bank AG Zurich, a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in shaping inclusive workplace cultures and driving Emiratisation efforts. Passionate about empowering people, she believes that true success begins where talent and purpose align.

Organizing team