Past TEDx event

TEDxTous

From Ancient Roots to Future Minds

Took placeOctober 31, 2025
LocationMashhad, Khorāsān-e Razavī, Iran
FormatStandard
In today’s rapidly evolving world, societies find themselves standing between the deep roots of tradition and the dynamic forces of modernity. Tradition carries the wisdom, identity, and cultural memory that shape who we are, while modernity opens pathways to innovation, progress, and new ways of thinking. “Bridging Tradition and Modernity” invites us to reimagine the relationship between these two realms, not as opposites in conflict, but as partners in dialogue. It is about discovering how timeless values can inspire creative solutions, and how contemporary ideas can gain strength and meaning when grounded in heritage. This bridge is not just a passage between past and future; it is a space where ideas spark, stories connect, and visions for a more meaningful tomorrow are born.

Speakers

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

  • Arash Soruri

    Entrepreneur, Innovation & Tech Ecosystem Builder

    Arash Soruri is a prominent technology communicator, entrepreneur and startup facilitator based in Tehran. With a background in computer engineering, he has built his reputation as a media-savvy event host, founder of platforms such as TechnoGram and Picsam, and a key figure in Iran’s startup ecosystem. He is widely recognised for bringing together innovators, venture-builders and tech-enthusiasts through dynamic workshops, media productions and curated events.

  • Elnaz Sakhaeian

    CEO of Nestlé Iran

    Elnaz Sakhaeian is a visionary business leader and the first Iranian CEO of Nestlé Iran, bringing over two decades of experience in the pharmaceutical and FMCG industries. Known for her strategic leadership and commitment to innovation, she has played a key role in shaping organizational culture and empowering women in leadership across multinational environments.

  • Hamid Safaei Niko

    Senior banking executive and university professor

    Hamid Safaei Niko is a senior banking executive and university professor with decades of experience in Iran’s financial and economic sectors. As the former Secretary of the Coordination Council of Banks in Khorasan Razavi, he played a key role in shaping regional banking policies and promoting financial literacy. Today, he continues to share his expertise with students and professionals, connecting theory and real-world economics with clarity and passion.

  • Mani Ghassemi

    CEO & Founder of Digiato

    Mani Ghassemi is an Iranian digital media entrepreneur and strategist who founded influential platforms such as Digiato, Vigiato, and Rooziato, shaping modern tech and culture journalism in the Persian-speaking world. With over a decade of reporting and ecosystem analysis, he has helped document Iran’s emerging innovation landscape and build media infrastructures that give global visibility to overlooked markets. His current work spans digital content, cross-border ventures, and the intersection of technology, storytelling, and entrepreneurship, driven by a belief that impactful narratives can expand opportunity and connect isolated ecosystems to the world.

  • Milad Dokhanchi

    CEO & Founder of Jivegi School

    He is both an academic and an entrepreneur with a background in television production. He holds a PhD in Cultural Studies from Queen’s University (Kingston, Ontario) and has resided in Tehran since 2020, where he founded and directs Jivegi.school. He closely follows Iranian cinema and is active in Iran’s intellectual circles, promoting social justice and egalitarian practices.

  • Mohammad Yaser Tayebnia

    CEO of Entekhab Group

    Mohammad Yaser Tayebnia is a dynamic industrial leader currently serving as CEO of Entekhab Group, one of Iran’s largest diversified investment holdings. Previously, he headed Mobarakeh Steel Company, the country’s flagship steel producer, where he oversaw large-scale sustainability and value-chain initiatives. With a PhD and extensive board experience across major industrial firms, he now focuses on driving innovation, vertical integration and sustainable growth across home appliances, petrochemicals, construction and energy.

Organizing team