Aliyah Jaffer: How has being in TED-Ed helped you learn about your identity?

Being part of the Encounters TEDEd group has been a powerful journey of self-discovery. It has helped me better understand who I am and how I see the world by encouraging me to look at life and its challenges through many different perspectives, like looking through a kaleidoscope.

Each class gave me time to reflect and truly listen to others, and that has opened my mind in ways I never expected. I no longer see the world through such a narrow lens. Instead, I have been exposed to new realities that have deepened my understanding and helped me grow.

Encounters TEDEd helped me realize what is in my water by pushing me into moments of deep reflection and necessary growth. It challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, and even though it was not always easy, I have come out stronger and more self-aware.

One of the biggest things I have learned is that I am capable of doing hard things, like writing my own TED Talk. Through the writing process and my TED journal, I discovered the values that matter most to me: kindness, respect, equity for all, and self-care. This experience has shaped how I see the world and reminded me of the strength I carry within.