TEDxBrummana HS

Speakers

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

• Andrew El Khoury

  Grade 10 student at Brummana High School

  TALK TITLE: EMBRACE YOUR UNIQUENESS Andrew El Khoury, born on 27 September 2010, is studying at BHS in hopes of becoming an engineer. He has been practicing fencing for four years and is very dedicated to the sport. Andrew has always enjoyed reading, especially psychology books, though fiction remains his favorite genre. From a young age, he has demonstrated academic giftedness. His ongoing journey of self-discovery involves transforming his love for books into meaningful wisdom, as he seeks to understand himself beyond his academic achievements and social efforts.

• Christopher Cherfan

  Grade 10 student at Brummana High School

  TALK TITLE: WHY “I CAN’T CHANGE” IS A LIE TO YOURSELF Christopher is a sixteen-year-old tenth-grade student who has already set forth a plan for his life, one driven by ambition and a desire to change people's mindsets. Christopher often participates in MUN conferences, which enable him to articulate his thoughts on global issues and develop skills that strengthen his character and public speaking. In addition to his strong views against injustice, sloth and impunity, he believes that perseverance and personal initiatives can break the cycle of failure and despair. In his talk, Christopher hopes to connect with the audience on a personal level and probe them to question their views about the habits that shackle them and the misconception that change is too idealistic to attain.

• Liam Andea

  IB1 Student at Brummana High School

  TALK TITLE: REFRAMING THE PURSUIT OF PASSION Liam is seventeen years old and has recently concluded his first DP year. Liam has a variety of interests, ranging from music and sports to sciences and world issues. His passion lies in uncovering the truth about critical topics that often spark controversy. Liam is a scout, therefore someone who appreciates adventure, nature, and the quest for inner knowledge. He hopes to find, through science and inquiry, answers that would help humanity and inspire people to keep looking and asking.

• Maria Charabaty

  Grade 7 student at Brummana High School

  TALK TITLE: THE MYTH OF SAFE CAREERS Maria is a passionate young pianist and debater, which highlights her dedication and enthusiasm. She loves participating in MUN conferences and exploring global issues, inspiring peers and organizers alike. Her early interest in public speaking and creative writing shows her drive and curiosity, making her a relatable and motivating figure at this event. Despite being only thirteen, Maria already has her own views on ambition, careers, and education, demonstrating her forward-thinking mindset.

• Naya Khoury

  Grade 10 student at Brummana High School

  TALK TITLE: How Young People Can Navigate the Workforce in an Era of Inflation Naya is a sixteen-year-old student who is passionate about Economics and all aspects that relate to this subject. Naya enjoys researching and discussing socio-economic topics,especially those that relate to communities that have witnessed change as a result of constitutional amendments. Naya is also fascinated by history which she reads voraciously. Apart from that, Naya enjoys singing and is a member of the school choir.

• Rama Hawilo

  Grade 11 Student from Beirut Baptist School

  TALK TITLE: HOW REALITY HAS BECOME A COMPETITION Rama Hawilo has a deep passion for international law and a conviction that borders should never limit justice. Rama aspires to work within the International Criminal Court and hopes to contribute to a future where justice is accessible to all. Her interests are public speaking, writing, and debating. Inspired by her own personal experiences, Rama believes that young people are not merely the leaders of tomorrow but agents of change today. Through her voice and advocacy, she seeks to encourage others to challenge injustice, think carefully, and help shape a more equitable world.

• Sarah Melhem

  Grade 10 student at Brummana High School

  TALK TITLE: THE PSYCHOLOGY BEHIND MUSIC Sarah is a sixteen-year-old tenth-grade student who loves to express herself in ways that give her a sense of fulfillment. Her passion for debates and participation in MUN conferences highlights her dedication and inspires peers and mentors to support her growth. Sarah enjoys researching and reading about global issues; she loves music and sports; and she finds the human mind fascinating for its ability to apprehend both the complex and the simple. Sarah has several plans for her future, but the most important is to be productive and useful to the community.

• Valeria Bcassini

  Grade 10 student at Brummana High School

  TALK TITLE: WHY SUCCESS FEELS LIKE A LIE Valeria is a sixteen-year-old tenth-grade student whose dreams and ambitions transcend curricula and ordinary activities. Just a year ago, Valeria took the TEDx stage for the first time and almost walked away. Yet, driven by a strong desire to speak and be heard, she stayed and conquered self-doubt with determination. She realized that no matter the challenges, nothing can silence ambition or impede success. Valeria has bravely ventured onto both local and international platforms at MUN conferences and explored controversial topics alongside her peers. In this talk, she pulls back the curtain on imposter syndrome, shares how she got LOUD, and invites you to do the same.

• Wassim Al Abed

  Grade 10 student at Houssam Eddine Hariri High School

  TALK TITLE: BEYOND THE REPORT CARD Wassim is a fifteen-year-old-tenth grade student. He is a thoughtful and curious person with a strong interest in philosophy, sports, and debating meaningful topics. He enjoys questioning traditional ideas and examining society’s tendency to treat grades as the main measure of intelligence and success. Wassim believes that although academic achievement is valuable, social skills, effective communication, confidence, and the ability to understand others are often more important for succeeding in real life.

• Yara Al Khateeb

  IB2 student at Rafic Al Hariri High School

  TALK TITLE: THE FEAR OF THE LABEL Yara is an eighteen-year-old student who has just graduated from high school. She is always seeking to learn more and develop a deeper understanding of the world. Yara is very intrigued by physics, philosophy, psychology, and maths. She likes ballet, skating, and martial arts, and always takes part in competitions that bring out the best in her. Her main goal is to share her voice with the world, advocate for human rights, and work towards social justice. Through her participation in MUN, she has honed her critical thinking skills and become more involved in discussions on pressing global issues.