Mikkah Damji: Why do you like the Encounters TEDEd Club?

My name is Mikkah Damji and I am in Grade 12 at Mulgrave School. I am a lead for the Communications and Media team for this years conference!

The Encounters TEDEd Club is a space for myself and like-minded intellectuals to share our thoughts, opinions, and ideas, as we explore wonders of the unknown and question the familiar. The comforting space we have collectively created—through warm and welcoming club culture—feels as if the screens against our faces are removed and we are all sitting next to each other, deep in conversation and argument, discussing the next big idea of tomorrow.

The range of topics discussed, from Islamic curriculum to current politics, allows me to explore several different areas of knowledge in a safe and welcoming environment. I thoroughly enjoy interacting with my peers and learning from one another through discussion and feedback. Even though I am unable to make all of the classes due to my extremely busy sports schedule, my teachers and peers—through support and endless resources—have allowed me to continue my journey as a member/participant of this club and contribute in different ways.

Having written a talk last year on the role of women in sports and having seen the endless love and support my speech has received, I now understand the power and importance of TEDEd talks. Being able to share through this medium has shown me the power of storytelling, and how even the most unexpected of topics can have curricular and faith connections. This year I have been able to receive lots of feedback and advice from viewers, peers, and teachers, allowing me to grasp this experience and learn from my journey. This year I hope to continue being a mentor to other TED students, and a role model/ambassador for our ted culture and values.

The thing I like most about the Encounters TEDEd Club is the warm and welcoming community it brings. It is an opportunity I hope everyone seeks out; not only to compose and present a TED talk, but also learn from so many other like minded students as we continue our journey exploring the unknown.