ISG Dammam Hosts First-Ever TEDx Event: “Imagine the Impossible”
On a remarkable Thursday, the International School Group (ISG) Dammam celebrated a significant milestone by hosting its inaugural TEDx event. This momentous occasion saw 11 students from grades 7 to 12 take to the stage, sharing their unique ideas and insights under the theme “Imagine the Impossible.” The event not only showcased the talents of the students but also highlighted the school’s commitment to fostering creativity, leadership, and critical thinking.
Understanding TEDx
TEDx events are independently organized gatherings licensed by TED, a global platform renowned for its impactful short talks. While TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design, TEDx events are community-driven, adhering to the same format as TED conferences that have gained immense popularity on platforms like YouTube. The “x” in TEDx signifies that the event is independently organized, yet it follows the stringent guidelines set by TED.
A Collaborative Effort
The event was meticulously organized by English teacher Nadia Iqbal and school librarian Betsey Hawkins, who worked closely with the students to prepare them for their presentations. Iqbal expressed immense pride in the students’ dedication, stating, “The students have put endless hours of work — and the scripts are original. They have really worked from articulating that idea to growing that idea and thinking what we can offer TEDx that was not offered before.”
A Stage for Young Voices
The TEDx stage was brought to life by four student hosts: Gen Grason Kitaoka-Aurelius, Safar Sultan Al-Qahtani, Ayesha Asher, and Virginia Brookshire. Their humorous commentary provided a light-hearted atmosphere between the various speakers, making the event not only informative but also entertaining. Families attended in support, and the event was recorded for those unable to join in person, ensuring that the inspiring messages reached a wider audience.
Diverse Topics and Personal Insights
The event kicked off with senior Ahmed Faraz, who spoke about the role of artificial intelligence in education. Reflecting on his experience, he noted, “We’ve learned so much preparing over the course of a few months — I’m so proud of my school.” Faraz, nearing the end of his high school journey, expressed admiration for the younger participants, acknowledging their bravery in stepping onto the stage.
Seventh grader Yeon Elizabeth Kim shared her personal journey from South Korea to Saudi Arabia, emphasizing how the experience helped her build confidence. “I felt really blessed to get the opportunity because I’m usually very quiet and introverted,” she said. Similarly, Izabela Aquino Aniversario spoke about the universal experience of rejection, encouraging others to view failure as a stepping stone to growth. “When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade,” she advised.
The event featured a rich tapestry of topics, with students offering unique insights and personal anecdotes. Haya Halaweh discussed the importance of valuing inner traits over physical appearance, while Sarah Emad addressed the impact of social media on relationships. Mohammed Hamza Jamsheed critiqued electric vehicles as a sustainable solution, and Maria Bassim reflected on the “art of procrastination.” Other speakers included Omar Majdi Hamdaan, who spoke about the concept of “grit,” and Zarmeena Awan, who encouraged the audience to chase their dreams with confidence.
Parental Pride and School Support
Parents expressed immense pride in their children’s performances, with Faraz’s father commenting on the depth of his son’s topic, stating, “The topic that he spoke about — I didn’t know about it … it was great. It was a great journey.” This sentiment echoed throughout the audience, as families celebrated the achievements of their young speakers.
The school administration also recognized the significance of the event. Principal Michael Schreider praised the students’ hard work and enthusiasm, stating, “The kids worked very hard; it’s something that we just started last year for the first time, and everyone came together, worked very hard and made this happen.” He expressed eagerness for future events, highlighting the positive impact of such initiatives on student development.
Conclusion
The first TEDx event at ISG Dammam was a resounding success, reflecting the school’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of thinkers and leaders. By providing a platform for students to share their ideas, the school has not only empowered them to express themselves but has also fostered a culture of creativity and critical thinking. As the echoes of “Imagine the Impossible” linger, the community looks forward to more inspiring events that will continue to shape the minds of young innovators.