TEDx at DCGS

In April, Dr Challoner’s Grammar School hosted TEDxDCGS Youth, a two-day independently organised student event featuring 15 speakers across a broad range of disciplines. Held in the Drama Studio, the event marked a significant milestone for the school. It was one of the only two student-run TEDx events to take place in our school.

The initiative was put forward by student Shiva, with Year 12 student Abhiraksh co-organising and serving as host across both days, alongside co-organisers Rishi and Aviral. Che and Toby were also there alongside the speakers, taking photos of what many called an engaging evening. 

Day 1 featured Kit, delivering 'The Future of Faith, Religion and Theology: And What That Might Look Like', exploring how belief systems may evolve in an increasingly secular world. Pranshi masterfully closed with 'What if Your Personality is Just a Pattern', drawing on psychology to question the assumptions we make about identity and character.

Day 2 continued in a similarly thought-provoking vein. Rishi opened with an engaging, 'Why the Long Way Round Gets You There Faster', making the case for taking less obvious paths to success. Isha closed with 'Zoom Out: How Changing Perspective Can Change Your Future', encouraging the audience to reconsider the thought processes through which they approach their lives.

A minor technical issue arose during Day 2 but was resolved quickly, proving the composure of the organising team under pressure. The event was supported by Assistant Headteacher Mr Colquhoun, who oversaw Sixth Form funding and venue management, as well as Mr Patani of the Drama Department, who assisted with the lighting and recording equipment.

TEDxDCGS Youth stands as a demonstration of what students can achieve when given both the responsibility and the resources to lead.

Writing: Abhiraksh

Editing: Luke