Theme: Embracing the Uncertainty of Change

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

American International School of Bucharest
196 Bulevardul Pipera
Voluntari, București, 077190
Romania

Alexia Diaconescu

Student

Alexia Diaconescu is an 11th-grader at the American International School of Bucharest, who values empathy, transparency, and unity and is passionate about mental and physical health, environmental awareness, and humanitarian issues.

Alkyoni Kotsis

Student

Alkyoni Kotsis is an 11th-grade student at the American International School of Bucharest. She has a strong passion for law and the exploration of humanitarian issues and wishes to pursue a career in this field in the future.

Daniel Ogendo

Teacher

Ogendo Daniel Oganga, originally from Kenya, embarked on his journey abroad for studies in 2004 and has since established his career overseas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts with an Education degree specializing in English Language and Literature and has completed several professional development courses through Harvard University via EdX. He is planning to pursue a Master’s degree in Educational Management and Leadership. His career has taken him through Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Egypt, Norway, and Romania, where he has worked primarily in IB and IGCSE schools and at a publishing house. Additionally, Ogendo is a seasoned public speaker, preacher, debater, trainer, and adjudicator in the World Schools Debate Format.

Ian Edwards

Teacher

Ian Edwards is an experienced educator with over 21 years of teaching in international schools. Specializing in English, Philosophy, History, and Theory of Knowledge, he has developed a deep understanding of global education and diverse learning environments. His multidisciplinary approach fosters critical thinking and a broad world view in his students, preparing them for academic and personal growth in an interconnected world.

Ilinca Miclea

Student

Ilinca Miclea's journey with BookTok, a grade 11 student at the American International School of Bucharest, began with a modest demand from her English class: one or two books per year. However, over time, she found herself pushing her boundaries, gradually immersing into a world where reading became a passion. Transitioning from solitary reading sessions to vibrant community engagement, she experienced a transformation facilitated by platforms like Booktok. Her annual book count skyrocketed from 1 or 2 to an impressive 50 to 65 books. Through this journey, she discovered the profound impact of social media on book exploration, shedding light on the evolving landscape of reading habits and the enriching experiences it brings to individuals, whether they are seasoned book enthusiasts or simply curious about the power of digital platforms.

Kate Sorrell

Teacher

Kate Sorrell is the MYP Coordinator at the American International School of Bucharest and an English Literature teacher. Passionate about transforming education, she is committed to implementing reforms that foster student engagement, critical thinking, and long-term success, ensuring a lasting impact on their academic and personal growth.

Patrick Romanescu

Student

Patrick Romanescu is a 10th grader at the American International School of Bucharest, who progressed from one box to another on and off the basketball court.