The Untold Story of the Qualifying Round of TEDxYouth@PennSchool 2025

Listen to #HomeOfTheEagles reveal their groundbreaking ideas and inspiring stories from the Qualifying Round of TEDxYouth@PennSchool 2025.

For Ngo Nguyen Hai Thien, a Grade 6 student, the Qualifying Round of TEDxYouth@PennSchool 2025 was an emotional journey filled with valuable experiences. This event presented challenges that helped him learn more, push his limits, and connect with others through powerful ideas. Reflecting on his experience at this annual event, Hai Thien shared, “I went through a wide range of emotions since joining TEDxYouth@PennSchool 2025, including excitement, nervousness, pride, and a sense of inspiration. The excitement stemmed from the chance to share ideas, passions, or personal stories with an audience, potentially impacting the lives of others. However, the pressure to deliver a meaningful, polished, and powerful speech naturally brought on nervousness. Despite that, speaking in front of an audience, especially when sharing my thoughts and ideas, led me to feel vulnerable. Looking back at the moment I stood confidently on the stage, I felt immense pride, not only from the work I had put in gathering information and practicing public speaking but also happy to realize that I had possibly inspired others and contributed to an important conversation. It was a reflection of my personal growth and confidence.”

Hai Thien enthusiastically added, “TEDxYouth@PennSchool is centered around ideas that can inspire and change the world. Both for me and the audience, these events often spark a sense of inspiration. When I shared my experiences and ideas with the audience, I could feel that I may have motivated them to take action, try something new, or think differently. My ideas not only inspired me, but I hope that they also have inspired others.”

The Qualifying Round of TEDxYouth@PennSchool 2025 has officially concluded, leaving behind many meaningful stories and unique ideas from our #HomeOfTheEagles. The School hopes that students have gained valuable experiences to confidently and strongly conquer the upcoming Final Round, which will take place in early 2025.