TEDxArbutus Ridge Youth

Speakers

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

• Alice Zhang

  Speaker

  I am an 18-year-old student originally from Suzhou, China, who recently moved to Vancouver to continue my education. Adjusting to a new city and culture has brought both challenges and opportunities, making me more independent, adaptable, and open to new experiences. As I begins this new chapter, I continues to reflect on what “home” means and how the places and people we leave behind remain part of who we are. Outside of school, I enjoys listening to musicals, particularly The Phantom of the Opera, and is fascinated by the way music and performance can communicate powerful emotions. I also loves fashion, photography, and video production. As a YouTuber, I record moments from her daily life, using videos as a way to preserve memories, express myself, and share my experiences with others.

• Camille Zhao

  Speaker

  I’ve always been curious about why we think and behave the way we do, especially in our relationships with others. My own experiences with overthinking have taught me how easily we can create stories around things we don’t understand, and I’m passionate about learning how to approach those uncertainties with more empathy.

• Candan Lu

  Speaker

  In 2019 when Candan was 6 years old, he moved from Hong Kong to Vancouver, starting a new chapter of his life. Growing up in this new environment gave him the chance to experience different cultures, languages, and new communities, which shaped his view and identity. Now Candan is a Grade 8 student studying at West Point Grey Academy who enjoys practicing Taekwondo, connecting with others and trying all kinds of activities.

• Cynthia Gong

  Speaker

  Hi, I’m Cynthia! I’m someone who loves balancing my creative side with my active side. Two of my biggest passions are drawing and singing, which let me express myself and explore new ideas. Sometimes when I feel sad or emotional I love to listen to music! My goal this year is to go do TED talk. In school, you will definitely find me most excited about P.E. and science. I love learning how things work, but I also love to move. When I’m not studying or working on my art, I’m usually playing sports. Badminton is my absolute favorite, but I also love hitting the basketball court to shoot some hoops whenever I get the chance.

• Lucy Hao

  Speaker

  Nice to meet all of you, my name is Lucy, and I am a grade 10 student from Prince of Wales Secondary school. I came to study in Canada last year, which was a big change for me. In my free time, I play badminton, golf, and I spend time playing the piano, too. Aside from my hobbies, I also like to attend volunteer work. In my opinion, volunteering doesn’t only mean helping others, but it also represents the kindness you are giving out, whenever you noticed that someone needs a hand. What I found interesting is that doing all these activities can actually build a closer connection with the community and make more friends. As I just mentioned, I just came to Canada, so the topic "How Young People Carry Where They're From While Learning How To Leave” really suits me well. In my speech, I will talk about the challenge I have faced, the progress I made, and some physiology that guide me through my journey.

• Mila Wen

  Speaker

  Hello everyone, my name is Mila, and I have hobbies I really enjoy, such as playing the piano, badminton, reading, skiing, and building Lego. After a tiring day, I like to relax with books, and skiing downhill at high speed always feels like a thrilling adventure to me. At school, I am one of the leaders to young children. Twice a week, I guide my small buddies through different activities and enjoy the time I spend with them.

• Owen Qin

  Speaker

  Owen is a Grade 10 student interested in economics, entrepreneurship, and how technology shapes everyday life. In his TEDx talk, he shares his experience of choosing a flip phone in 2026 and explores how our environment can influence our habits, attention, and choices. He hopes to encourage others to think more carefully about which habits they want to keep and which ones they are willing to leave behind.

• Simon Gong

  Speaker

  My name is Simon. I go to OLPH and I like being involved in school. I have a leadership role at school and I also go to Scouts. I like playing games, hanging out with my friends, and trying new things. I also enjoy helping people and being part of different activities. One of the things I’m doing this year is TEDx, which is something I’m really excited about.