Pupils from Years 8 to 10 spent a memorable day at TEDx Truro, immersed in a programme of speakers whose stories, experiences and ideas left a lasting impression.

The talks ranged widely, touching on belonging, resilience, creativity, neurodiversity and the courage to embrace change, but were united by a common thread: the power of personal stories to spark new and creative ways of thinking. Pupils heard honest, moving accounts of overcoming health challenges, changing career paths, learning to celebrate individuality, and discovering that it’s never too late to find what gives life meaning and purpose.

Professor Musarrat Maisha Reza spoke movingly about belonging and the importance of meaningful connection, while Lerryn Clare offered a fresh perspective on ADHD and neurodiversity, showing how the right environment can help people truly thrive. Jessica Chantler challenged the audience to rethink the old “left-brain versus right-brain” myth, making a compelling case for analytical thinking and creativity as natural partners rather than opposites.

A particular highlight came from Nikita Thakrar, whose talk wove together personal reflection, movement and dance. Her performance brought her message vividly to life, offering a striking reminder of how creativity can support self-expression, wellbeing and personal growth.

There was plenty of laughter too. Rujuta Singh’s celebration of silliness and everyday joy was an instant favourite, and a surprise serenade from Titan the Robot added a wonderfully unexpected and memorable touch to the day.

Perhaps the most valuable part of the experience came after the talks, when students had the chance to meet the speakers. Generous with their time and refreshingly honest about their own journeys, the speakers encouraged students to reflect on their own ambitions, challenges and strengths, turning inspiration into something personal. Pupils left full of ideas, eager to share their favourite moments and already thinking differently about their own futures.

A big thank you to the organisers of TEDx Truro for curating such a thoughtful and uplifting event. It was a fantastic day that encouraged curiosity, creativity and confidence, and clearly one that our pupils will be talking about for a long time to come.

Thank you to Ms Daemi-Rashidi for the wonderful write-up.

TEDx Truro Reviews – Pupil Reflections

Verity, Year 10
In the first group, I liked Professor Musarrat Maisha Reza, who talked about how small actions can be used to make a positive difference to others, as it was a positive message and showed how easily people can make others feel more welcome and included. I liked Jamie Honeybourne, who explained how people should not be judged based on appearances, as behind the humour there was a serious message. I also liked the final speaker, who gave a talk on the importance of silliness, as it was quite a contrast from the previous speakers and challenged many commonly held opinions and beliefs, whilst remaining humorous throughout.

I think the messages delivered by the speakers will have influenced people to think more carefully about how their actions may affect others, which was a common theme of the talks throughout the day.

Caitlin, Year 10
The speaker who stood out to me the most had to be Rujuta Singh, who spoke about being silly and how it can save you. I love the concept of having fun doing pointless things, and her manner and word choices made the entire speech all the more entertaining! Nikita Thakrar, who had to give up her dance career, definitely inspired me. As a dancer, I figured that if anything like that were to happen to me, I would push through anyway so as to not give up, but the speaker gave me a new perspective that I found very helpful!

Rickie, Year 9
The speaker who particularly stood out to me was Rujuta Singh, and her talk about silliness, what stood out because of the different approach and humour in her presentation. It was different compared to earlier speakers, and she definitely entertained more than just talking to us about creativity and personal anecdotes. The idea of silliness made me consider humour more than a serious tone, as it is a unique way to approach work. The highlight of the day was the silly content of the last talk, which consisted of a metal plaque someone took time to pin onto a tree, stating “The tree,” which seemed to bring a positive end to the day. TEDx 2026 has influenced me to think beyond what I believe is the limit and look for different ways to approach tasks.

Arthur, Year 9
Rujuta Singh stood out to me the most because she talked about silliness, how it can affect you and why we do it. It made me rethink how I view silliness and helped me understand it in a new way. The way they structured the TED talk will help me write and speak in the future in English.

Eddie, Year 8
Lerryn Clare, who talked about ADHD, stood out to me the most because it was very interesting to learn about how our brains work, the difficulties of ADHD and how to overcome them with different methods and tactics.

The message from Rujuta Singh about how just doing random silly things could save the world made me think in a new way because it shows that positive change can come from unexpected places and that playfulness and creativity are very powerful. My favourite moment of the day was when I was completely captivated by the speeches, and I was fully engaged in what they were all saying and their life stories. What I learned has influenced me in the future to be more creative and focused on my goals, and to do my best and to always try to fit fun in even when I am doing other things.

Sam, Year 9
I think my favourite speech was Rujuta Singh’s. I really enjoyed the comedy, and the way she used her PowerPoint was effective. The classification of a random act of silliness, I think, is really important.

Daz Stephens’ idea of ballet enhancing bodybuilding interested me, as I thought they were mutually exclusive. My favourite moment was when I got my question answered, and what I learned might help me understand how to try and be more creative. I thoroughly enjoyed the day and look forward to other scholars’ trips.