TEDxYOUTH@DAIS

Innovation is reshaping our world every second, and these changes are not only inevitable but also essential to creating a better future for all. From advancements in technology and artificial intelligence to social movements and healthcare breakthroughs, evolution weaves through every sphere of life, connecting us all. This year, TEDxYouth@DAIS returned to explore the changes—big and small—that define our reality through our chosen theme of “(r)Evolution.” Whether in thought, society, or science, "(r)Evolution" challenged us to reflect on the forces that drive progress and the ideas that disrupt the status quo. This fusion of the bold spirit of revolution with the steady force of evolution, “(r)Evolution” captures the dynamic balance between ideas that wish to transform the present and gradual changes that shape the future. As TEDxYouth@DAIS2024 unfolded, seven inspiring speakers took the stage, each igniting their own (r)Evolution.

Some speakers recounted powerful memories of personal and professional evolution, revealing how they overcame challenges and defied the odds to reach where they are today, while others shared bold visions for the future and the transformative ideas driving their work. The audience was enraptured listening to talks on topics such as reaching goals that others deemed impossible, overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship through adaptation, and exploring the ethical consequences of cutting-edge technological advancements. Through these incredible talks, TEDxYouth@DAIS2024 reminded us that revolutions don’t only exist in history books—they can be sparked by the actions we undertake every day.

Student Heads

Drishti Agarwal and Arushi Bhandari

Anand Gokani:

Author and a Renowned Physician

Dr Anand Gokani, an author and a renowned physician in the field since 1986, has a speciality in Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases. Recently, he published his debut novel titled 'A Fistful of My Sky’ which follows his journey in medicine, specifically his experience with the Adivasi people. With a deep passion for his specialty, he has conducted numerous lectures, seminars and workshops on diabetes and lifestyle management. His dedication to the medical field is visible from his association with the Bombay Hospital & Medical Research Centre for a remarkable 36 years! Beyond his clinic, Dr Gokani has also been instrumental in fostering personal and professional development through residential camps focused on Socially useful and productive work, leadership, ethical practices etc. As Mahatma Gandhi’s great-grandson, he has continued Gandhi’s legacy of secularism by registering his religion as "Compassion” on official documents for the last 20 years.

Anupriya Acharya:

Chief Executive Officer

Anupriya Acharya is the Chief Executive Officer of Publicis Groupe South Asia, a leader in media and advertising with nearly three decades of experience across India and Southeast Asia. With 18 years in senior executive roles, she has built client-centric structures that foster innovation and growth. As CEO, she leads a team of 6,000 professionals and oversees several renowned agencies, including Leo Burnett, MSL, Starcom, Zenith, and Digitas. Recognized for her outstanding leadership, she has been listed in Fortune magazine’s Most Powerful Women in Business for three consecutive years and in Forbes’ W-Power Trailblazers. However, she also has an eclectic set of hobbies- this trailblazing alumni of IIT Roorkee is also a fitness enthusiast and regularly participates in high-altitude adventure trips.

Avantika Ahuja:

Vice President of Marketing at CocoCart

A DAIS alum and NYU graduate, Avantika is the Vice President of Marketing and Brand Communications at CocoCart, a family-founded venture she co-created. She blends her love for fun and chocolate into her work, helping launch "Rhine Valley," one of CocoCart’s best-sellers. Avantika shares insights on branding and product development at various forums,including panel discussions and interviews, inspiring others with her entrepreneurial spirit.

Cawas Billimoria:

Gym Teacher

Cawas Billimoria—our favorite gym teacher with a secret identity! Lesser known as an Olympic judo competitor, he represented India at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, where he fought more than just opponents; he took on the complete lack of infrastructure, funding, and recognition that often plagues lesser-known sports in India. Despite all that, he still made it to the Olympic stage, proving that with grit and determination, you can make a big impact, even when the odds are against you. Cawas Sir’s journey has made him a true role model for aspiring athletes, showing us that you don’t need fame or fortune to make history.

Harsh Jain:

Founder of Dream11

Founder of Dream11, India’s leading fantasy sports platform and the first gaming unicorn, Harsh revolutionized fantasy sports in the country. An alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia Business School, he combined his passion for sports, technology, and gaming to transform the industry. His partnerships with major leagues like the IPL cemented his status as an industry leader. He is also an avid sports, technology and gaming enthusiast, as well as a lifelong Manchester United, Mumbai Indians and Indian Cricket Team fan! Under his leadership, Dream 11 has become India's leading fantasy sports platform and the first Indian gaming unicorn. He transformed fantasy sports in India into a lucrative industry and forged key partnerships with major leagues such as IPL.

Keshav Mohta:

Student

One of our most talented students, 17-year old Keshav Mohta in grade 12, has been working with robots since he was 10 years old, participating in numerous national and international competitions. Keshav is the captain of our school’s robotics team, and an international World Champion in robotics. He is a technology enthusiast and aspires to eventually build a career around cutting-edge technology. Apart from robotics, Keshav is also involved in various school activities like the annual magazine INSIGNIA, the Student Council and DAIMUN.

Rahul Gupta:

Managing partner of ValuAble

Rahul Gupta is the managing partner of ValuAble, a $100 million venture debt fund. He has a distinguished career in wholesale banking, spanning 18 years in India and the UK. After graduating in Economics from St. Stephen's College and Delhi School of Economics, he rose quickly through the ranks, becoming one of the youngest Senior Vice Presidents at a top Indian bank. He was recognized in Business World's 40 Under 40 list for his disruptive initiatives and led multi-billion dollar financing deals across various sectors. He has also contributed to global partnerships in climate, healthcare, and supply chain, and participated in the Carbon Disclosure Program in London. Outside of work, he enjoys audiobooks and writing, aiming to inspire others with his belief that "one candle can light a million."- and after his speech, we are convinced he succeeded!