TEDxKMCT

Speakers

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

• Dr. Achuthsankar S. Nair

  scholar, professor, author, cultural activist

  Achuth Sankar is a renowned multi-disciplinary scholar, professor, author, and cultural activist whose work spans engineering, bioinformatics, and music with two doctorates. He has pursued his education at IIT Bombay, the University of Cambridge, and the University of Kerala. The author of 20+ books, he has made a significant impact as Senior Professor & Head of Bioinformatics at the University of Kerala and as Director of C-DIT, mentoring over 30 PhD scholars and shaping institutions through his leadership. A celebrated speaker and musician, he has delivered lectures at prestigious platforms including the Madras Music Academy, Kalakshetra, and IGNCA. His contributions have been recognized with several honors, including the INSA National Teacher’s Award (2013), Vakkom Maulavi Foundation Award (2014), and the Mar Gregorious Memorial Guru Shreshta Award (2024). Through his scholarship, cultural engagement, and visionary leadership, AchuthSankar continues to inspire generations.

• Dr. Arif Kandoth

  professional theatre artist, prosthodontist

  Dr. Arif Kandoth, a distinguished theatre artist and Dental Specialist, has excelled in acting since his school days. He has performed in over 15 theatre productions across India and the UAE, directed several plays and appeared in three Malayalam movies. He has won multiple awards including Best Actor award in 3 theatre festivals in UAE and a nomination for Best Actor in a Lead role (Male) at the Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards-META 2020 and for Best Actor in a supporting role (Male) in 2025.

• Dr. Hana Abdul Kareem

  Dentist, author, researcher

  Dr. Hana Abdul Kareem is a dentist-intern at KMCT Dental College, a poet and a published author of three books, including two poetry collections and a debut novel. Recipient of the ICMR Studentship Grant and featured in Gulf Madhyamam, she has also earned accolades in writing, research and public speaking. Through her works, she explores resilience, faith, and healing, inspiring others to find strength in life’s trials.

• Dr. Hiba Abdul raoof

  Ophthalmologist, digital artist, singer, entrepreneur

  Dr Hiba Abdul Raoof is a Senior Resident at the Department of Ophthalmology at KMCT Medical College ; A powerhouse of energy and creativity; a talented digital artist and entrepreneur. Creative mind behind the Instagram page “Pixpressions”. She has also gained commendation at National and State conferences as a “Teacher of Tomorrow”. She aims to be an empowering teacher and make Ophthalmology an interesting subject through her creative modes of education. She sets herself as an example for young medical students to excel in their careers as well as carry forward the ignition of creativity in their lives.

• Dr. Poornima Raman Ngomdir

  sports physiotherapist

  Dr. Poornima Raman Ngomdir is a distinguished sports physiotherapist and sports science expert with over 15 years of experience working with India’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes across multiple disciplines. From grassroots talent to the world’s biggest sporting stages, she has played a pivotal role in helping athletes navigate setbacks, recover from injuries, and return stronger — turning moments of pain into stories of inspiration. Her journey is deeply intertwined with theirs; while she guided athletes through their toughest battles, she also fought her own health challenges with quiet strength and determination. Through her talk, “Small Steps, Bold Journey – From Injury to Inspiration,” she shares powerful lessons from the sidelines — where resilience is built, dreams are reignited, and transformation begins.

• Dr. Saji Gopinath

  academician, digital technology innovator and entrepreneurship promoter

  Dr. Saji Gopinath was the first Vice Chancellor of Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation & Technology, and a visionary leader in education, technology, and innovation. Former vice chancellor of APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University and a former the CEO of Kerala Startup Mission, he played a pivotal role in shaping Kerala’s startup ecosystem and elevating it to global recognition. With his expertise in management and technology, he empowers students, startups, and innovators to excel, inspiring the next generation to embrace digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and research with passion and creativity. He is now a professor at IIM Kozhikode.

• Mr. Abdul Basim Nalakath

  food vlogger, entrepreneur

  Mr. Abdul Basim Nalakath, widely known as the creative force behind Basim’s Plate, is a celebrated food vlogger and entrepreneur from Kerala. With his unique storytelling and passion for flavors, he has transformed everyday dining into a journey of culture, community, and connection. Beyond food reviews, Basim’s Plate has become a brand that inspires millions by blending creativity, authenticity, and innovation. His ventures, including Plan B by Basim’s Plate, reflect his vision of expanding experiences beyond the plate — into travel, lifestyle, and entrepreneurship. A true example of passion turned profession, he continues to motivate the youth to pursue their dreams fearlessly, while staying grounded in culture and values.

• Mr. Chirag Vaitheeswaran

  handpan maker and player

  Mr. Chirag Vaitheeswaran is a young innovator and a visionary leader, admired for blending creativity with purpose. He is the creative mind behind Chirp, a pioneering brand that crafts world-class handpans in India. By combining artistry with innovation, he has redefined how music is experienced — turning steel into soulful melodies. His journey with Chirp reflects passion, resilience, and a commitment to showcasing Indian craftsmanship on the global stage. Through his work, Chirag inspires young dreamers to embrace creativity, build fearlessly, and let their ideas resonate beyond boundaries.

• Mr. Fayis Asraf Ali

  International Cyclist, global peace ambassador

  Fayis Asraf Ali, an alumnus of KMCT Engineering College, is a renowned international cyclist from Calicut, Kerala. A passionate advocate for fitness, sustainability, and peace, he has cycled over 30,000 km across 36 countries and 2 continents. His monumental journey began on August 15, 2022, from Kerala, India, and culminated 450 days later at London’s iconic Tower Bridge, after which he continued to Paris in alignment with the Paris 2024 Olympics. Throughout his expedition, Fayis championed several global causes -fitness and healthcare awareness, Rotary’s “End Polio Now” mission, conflict resolution and peacebuilding, environmental sustainability (Go Green & Zero Carbon Emission), and anti-drug campaigns, addressing 39 institutions and 28 embassies. Earlier, he completed an India to Singapore ride, covering 5,000 miles across 7 countries in 104 days. For his remarkable achievements, Fayis has been honoured with Bharath Book of Records and the World Book of Records (London) in 2024.

• Ms. Rekha Menon

  media personality, anchor, corporate communications specialist

  Ms. Rekha Menon is a celebrated media personality, anchor, and professional corporate communications specialist with 25 years of experience in strategizing, planning, designing, and executing impactful communication projects across the globe. Known for her engaging storytelling and powerful presence, she was once a household name in Kerala for her unique and captivating interview style, and she continues to reinvent herself with creativity and innovation. Currently serving as the Director and Head of Corporate Communications for a leading financial institution, she balances her corporate expertise with her passion for media through television shows, her YouTube channel, and popular short videos created with her son. A strong advocate of creative expression and women empowerment, Rekha Menon remains an inspiration for young communicators to speak boldly, embrace innovation, and stay true to their roots.