Have you ever seen a nest made by a weaver bird? It is one of the most intricately crafted homes designed by a living being. A perfectly woven nest, it captures our attention and makes us wonder about its sheer dexterity. We can see that the beauty present in nature is profound and has a vivid effect. From the bright petals of a flower to the spread of a rainbow, each entity exhibits its charisma. Pretty to look at and soak it in, on close look, all the beautiful objects in nature express a level of creativity in their design. Incorporating a degree of ingenuity, nature rises above and beyond to be the most alluring of all. So, while beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, its essence lies in ingenuity. Combining the different aspects of an idea, it can lead to a world of innovation with impact. Unleashing the inner potential, one can build on revolutionary concepts, advancing human lives. Consequently, the world is not a constraint but an opportunity to play around with new forms of creativity. It all comes down to the power of imagination. So, the beauty of ingenuity is what makes us feel alive and whole. It’s the force that propels us to action, learn, and explore, ultimately driving us to create something that might be even more beautiful than what we were initially inspired by. Our speakers have touched the lives of millions of people through the power of their ingenuity, leaving us with a memorable journey. In these times when people often give up their aspirations in self-doubt, many individuals, just through their absolute perseverance and presence of mind, balance various aspects of life thereby contributing to the world. We at TEDxKIITUniversity believe that 'Beauty of Ingenuity' lies in pursuing what your heart believes in most. Through our ideas, we aim to inspire people to look beyond the skin to pursue problems with simple and original solutions.
Starting his journey of conservation at the tender age of 9 years to being the first Indian Biologist who won the Behler Turtle conservation award, considered to be the 'Nobel Prize' in its field, Dr. Shailendra Singh has made his mark in this era. Bringing sweeping transformation in the biological landscape by bringing three critically endangered turtles back from the brink of extinction, rescuing 35,000 turtles, and protecting 18 of India's 29 turtle species, he has proved that as long as one persists with ingenuity, one can bring a difference in saving the world.
Aquatic Wildlife Biologist
Melodious voice behind 'Chaap Tilak' to unplugged version of 'Jashn-e-Bahara', Indian Bollywood singer, Namita Chaudhary has enthralled one and all. With over 402K monthly listeners on Spotify and over 20M views on YouTube, she is the epitome of grace, elegance and perseverance.
Playback Singer
Pioneer of cryogenic rocket science and Padma Shri awardee, Dr. Vasudevan has proved that minds, like rockets, can go far and beyond. Having worked as a rocket scientist at ISRO and in the field of rocket propulsion for last 38 years, he has massively contributed behind the development of booster liquid stages of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle and the uprating of the VIKAS engine. Honoured with the Aeronautical Society of India Award, he is currently working as senior VP at the private aerospace company "Skyroot Aerospace". With his resilience and ingenuity, he has uplifted the community and likewise nation, exhibiting that anyone can reach for stars.
Senior Vice President at Skyroot Aerospace | ex-ISRO Scientist
Chemical engineer turned entrepreneur, Ms. Nidhi Pant is a dedicated and inspiring woman. From co-founding S4S Technologies under her belt to being conferred the Women Transforming India Award by NITI Aayog in collaboration with the United Nations (UN), she has become a force to reckon. Specially mentioned on Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia, she is the key drive in the entrepreneurship movement. Her work with over 3700 women farmers and serving over 550 food industry clients including Nestle, IRCTC, etc. is one that has left an imprint ushering in a new era. Her resolve to transform lives whilst working hard is heartening and appreciated.
Entrepreneur
Born in Southern Kenya, Patrick Kilonzo Mwalua had become quite familiar with animals and felt the message in their eyes to his core. His interest in animals led him to acquire training in animal healthcare and work in a conservation organization where he continued to work towards his vision of helping them. His dedicated efforts to ensure water supply to animals by even purchasing water for the equivalent of 32$ per 10,000 liters and digging water holes, all at his personal cost is a great act of selflessness. His interview with K24 (Kenyan television station) has helped him spread his message of preserving wildlife and caring for our fellow animal friends.
Water Man of Africa
Ms. Pankaja Sethi is an Indian textile designer and researcher who has worked with indegenous women and weavers of India. Being the founder of "Kala Aur Katha '' and "Pankaja Sethi Studio '' she aims to revive indigenous designs and educate and inspire younger generations. Glimpses of her creative vision can be seen in her textile artwork "The Flaming Womb" which gained a spot at the ‘Fabric of Being‘ exhibition at the Nairobi Summit, ICPD supported by UNFPA in 2019. Her designs also gained spotlight at the 'Lakme Fashion Week' in 2018. Her work continues to fascinate and influence people's minds and her will to preserve these traditional designs to save an art form from dying is truly breathtaking
Textile Designer
Hailing from Paritewadi Village in the Solapur District of Maharashtra, Ranjitsinh Disale had decided to be an IT engineer to fulfill his visions yet fate had another tale in store for him. Through relentless effort infused with ingenuity, he transformed the educational landscape for rural girls in Western India. His ingenuity of first QR-coded textbooks culminated in being recipient of Global Teacher Prize 2020. Juggling between different roles like World Bank Education advisor to environmentalist, he has manifested the power of a common man who can build bridges, buildings and sometimes the lives of millions.
Educationist
With 40+ years of experience at CERN and being the co founder of the CERN Physics Teacher Programme he has encouraged an entire new generation to keep the fire of curiosity alive and channel their inner scientists and inspired them to seek knowledge to contribute to the society in their unique ways. Currently , an Honorary Fellow of the Universities of Birmingham and Brunel his dedication and perseverance towards his work truly proves that the magic is still alive. With this, we present to you Dr. Mick Storr.
Hon. Fellow, University of Birmingham | Former Head, CERN Teachers Programme and Visits Service
Kolkata born Shataf Figar is an actor who has left a mark in the film industry with his charming portrayal of countless characters and personas. From making his debut in the film “Kolkata Calling” in 2014 to starring in “Brahman Naman”, a 2016 Indian comedy film directed by Qaushiq Mukherjee that was shown in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition section at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, he has come a long way. He is recognized for playing incredible characters in films like 'Shershaah', 'Khoj', 'Cockpit', 'Made in China', 'Breathe: Into the shadows', 'Aarya' and the Hollywood film 'Extraction'. We can certainly say that his hard work and passion for acting is something that influences minds and is inspiring to the masses.
Actor
James Combo Marino is a globally acclaimed dancer and choreographer based in Los Angeles, who has worked with some of the world's most influential artists like Camila Cabello, The Weeknd, Backstreet Boys, and big brands like Nike and Adidas. He has tasted success due to his determination and passion, coupled with immensely persistent hard work, hours of rigorous practice, and years of sore and aching feet. With entrepreneurial skills and a purpose that exceeds just dancing, his philosophy of self-awareness about one's own creative potential makes him the trendsetter of our theme for this year, Beauty of Ingenuity.
Professional Dancer and Choreographer
Jason Suran is a New York based mentalist and mind-reader whose psychological illusions have been featured on major global networks, radio, and in venues ranging from Carnegie Hall to the United States Pentagon. His virtual show "Reconnected" has become a smash hit inspiring hundreds of performers worldwide. Currently serving as artist-in-residence at the Norwood Club in Chelsea and in 2021, he was featured on NY1, NY Public Radio, Forbes, and as a New York Times "Up Next" artist to watch. His work continues to fascinate people’s minds and let them slip into a different world of ingenuity altogether.
Mentalist
Pioneer of cryogenic rocket science and Padma Shri awardee, Dr. Vasudevan has proved that minds, like rockets, can go far and beyond. Having worked as a rocket scientist at ISRO and in the field of rocket propulsion for last 38 years, he has massively contributed behind the development of booster liquid stages of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle and the uprating of the VIKAS engine. Honoured with the Aeronautical Society of India Award, he is currently working as senior VP at the private aerospace company "Skyroot Aerospace". With his resilience and ingenuity, he has uplifted the community and likewise nation, exhibiting that anyone can reach for stars.
Recipient of ‘Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award’ and an Indian representative to the UIAA, the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (as member of the Access and Expedition Committee), he has a vast experience of adventures in his belt right from scaling five 8,000 metre towering peaks of Everest, Cho Oyu and Annapurna to undertaking a skiing reconnaissance expedition to the South Pole. His unwavering resolution and fervour to go beyond and push the limits is inspiring for the masses. His story aptly reminds us that with grit and determination anyone can conquer mountains.
Mountaineer
As Cristina Zenato takes yet another dive into the oceans, she comes across the 'nature's masterpiece'- the sharks, flourishing around thanks to her more than 23 years of shark diving experience which oversaw removal of more than 300 hooks from the shark’s mouth. Her fascination and action of preservation on the sharks has won applause from all sections of the people and got her featured in the BBC,CNN to Nat Geo. Her organization 'The People of the Water' is making an effort to contribute to the shark protection along with spreading awareness about the oceans.
Shark Behaviorist
With an unwavering will to provide a better living standard to the shunned HIV positive members of the society, Kallol Ghosh relentlessly works towards a fixed goal of empowering them. The founder of the OFFER organization, hand in hand with the UN, he seeks to prevent ostracism of these helpless innocent individuals.
Watch him breaking all stereotypes and setting new standards for a better tomorrow.
Social Entrepreneur
Being the first physically handicapped person to circumnavigate the globe on a yacht, AK Singh is no less than a symbol of strength and resilience. From standing first in merit in NDA and being awarded the President's Gold Medal to being the Sword of Honour at IMA, Maj AK Singh, KC was always destined for greatness.
Watch him as he describes his real-life adventures that were not any less dangerous than those of the fictions
Kirti Chakra
Lucknow-born Priyanka Srivastava is a committed and diligent woman who has travelled miles to fulfill her childhood dream. With her job as a system engineer at NASA-JPL, she has worked on three NASA flight missions from design to operation process. She was a part of the recently landed mission of Mars 2020 Perseverance Rover operating and analyzing DMCA system of the flight . Her resolve and belief in reaching for the stars whilst working hard is inspiring en masse. With her persilience, she is poised to go far making India proud all along.
System Engineer at NASA (JPL)
Usharani Naik is a woman with a strong sense of conviction and unparalleled determination rising from the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. Her will and zeal to become financially independent is admirable as she spearheads the profitable Sabai handicrafts venture minting profit of Rs.19 lakh in 2019. The journey from employing 20 women to now empowering over 1000 tribal women and being recognized all over India emerges as a success story for rural development. Her vision for traditional arts of Odisha coupled with people participation is creating ripples in the entrepreneurship scene of India.
Sabai Grass Handicraft Designer
Transatlantic female electronic music duo Christina Wood and Cicely Goulder, became famous as Kaleida. Together they accumulated more than 101 million online streams. They are redefining creative dynamics of music and soundtracks like Picture You, Long Moon, Other Side, and many more. They said "Think of Me, I will never break your heart" in their song Think which got featured in the classic action thriller John Wick. Rightly said, for their audience never turned their faith away from them ever since.
Electronic Duo
The voice behind popular Bollywood songs such as ‘Mahi Ve’ from ‘Kal Ho Na Ho’, 'Tum Bin Bataye' from ‘Rang De Basanti’ and 'Kabhi Neem Neem' from Yuva, she is well known for various multilingual hits as well. Madhushree got her name bestowed to her by none other than the renowned music composer A R Rahman From receiving the Sony Stardust Award as the Best Female Sensation (Playback Singer) to appearing as a judge on Zee Bangla Saregamapa (2017), her journey has been full of challenges, hardships and an unshattering will to overcome them.
Playback singer
The founder of the social enterprise MATR, Praveen Chauhan is a saviour of both the environment and the unemployed women of Gaya, Bihar. His initiative, the Happy Hands Project, was conceived with the goal of bringing sustainable employment to the local women by re-purposing discarded floral waste from the ancient Mahabodhi temple to make natural dyes for the Khadi products.
Environment Activist
A pragmatist of the elite tier, who did not settle down after a major setback but stood up and continued fighting against the socially accepted standards of normal. Dr Aggarwal was working as a dentist when partial visual impairment put a stop on his medical career at the age of 32. He then founded the Sarthak Educational Trust that dedicated their work for thousands of Divyangs who went on to find a new life in the corporate world. The foundation brings employers and disabled people looking for jobs at a common place.
Educationist
Varshita Ramesh is a singer-songwriter from Bengaluru who with her passion for music and love for jazz is creating waves in the indie genre. Her debut song ‘Is it you?’ under the stage name Huyana has been covered in major platforms like Apple, Spotify, YouTube and SoundCloud. She has extensively toured for music festivals performing with the band of veteran AR Rahman , all at the tender age of 20 years. With her poised demeanour and strings of achievements, she is bound to be an upcoming force to reckon with in the world of independent music.
Singer - Songwriter
With every beat of his Tabla, Pranshu Chatur Lal is charming his way into the hearts of his audience all over the world.Coming from a famed household of legendary tabla wizards,he has carved his own unique path with intricate rhythm patterns. A recipient of ‘Tabla Ratna Award’, his strings of achievements include accompanying noted musicians like flute maestro Pt. Hari Prasad Chaurasia and sarod legend Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, to name a few and recently performing for Hon'ble Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi & President of Sri Lanka His Excellency Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaska.
Percussionist
A field epidemiologist by profession and a leader in medical research. With his life-changing work on economical care for rabid dog bite, he has turned the table for thousands of people. Recognized by the WHO and the Govt. of India with the Padma Shri in 2019, he is everything a doctor and medical researcher aims to be.
Epidemiologist
A man with vision and at the pinnacle of creativity, Walter Volpatto’s industry credits include 2019 Academy-Award Best Picture Winner Green Book, directed by Peter Farrelly; Dunkirk, directed by Christopher Nolan; Star Wars: The Last Jedi, directed by Rian Johnson; Independence Day: Resurgence, directed by Roland Emmerich; Bad Moms, directed by Jon Lucas and Scott Moore; and, most recently, Amazon Studios’ critically-acclaimed series Homecoming.
Coming from a family of farmers, he had to fight tooth and nail against the vagaries of life before he could make it big in the industry. The 15-year industry veteran has been appointed to the leadership of The Colorist Society International as a Fellow and is a member of Academy Of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Senior Colorist
Company 3 Hollywood
Student Activity Centre
Campus 13
KIIT (Deemed to be University)
Bhubaneswar, Odisha - 751024