Last week, the St Catherine's British School Theatre came alive with ideas, creativity, and confident student voices as we hosted TEDx StCats Youth, a dynamic two-evening event led by our Upper School students.

Students from Years 7–12 came together across both evenings to celebrate the power of student voice, inviting the audience to explore new perspectives and engage with ideas that matter. The event was organised by students, with the support and guidance of Ms Athina Feteri and Ms Sophia Tzellos, whose guidance and mentorship helped shape the students’ ideas and ensured the success of the event.

Across Wednesday 11 March and Friday 13 March, students explored a wide range of thought-provoking topics — from artificial intelligence and neuroscience to identity, justice, creativity, and the future of our world.

Wednesday 11 March – Ideas that Challenged Perspectives

The Wednesday evening programme brought together a diverse group of speakers who invited the audience to examine society, technology, and human behaviour from new perspectives.

Talks ranged from Carolina A. (Year 11) exploring “Are criminals born or made?” to Aren K. (Year 10) considered the impact of pride in “Be Humble: How Pride Drowns You.” Audrey F. (Year 7) examined the identity of today’s generation, while Eva J. (Year 10) shared a powerful journey through neuroscience and autism in “The Story My Brain Tells.”

Technology was a strong theme throughout the evening. Andreas L. (Year 9) questioned the limits of artificial intelligence, Alexandros T. (Year 8) questioned whether we are approaching a technological apocalypse while Constantinos P. (Year 9) explored the relationship between humans and robotics in “The Steel Mirror: Why the Future of Robotics is Human.”

Other talks addressed broader societal questions. Vivien K. (Year 9) challenged assumptions about progress, Carolina P. (Year 12) reflected on the oversights of justice, and Foteini V. (Year 12) explored the debate around inheritance tax. Nicole V. (Year 11) examined how our environment shapes who we become, Ino T. (Year 7) spoke about the role of sport in shaping character, and Athina Z. (Year 11) delivered a powerful talk titled “Stolen Futures.”

Ms Feteri mentioned about the event:

“TEDx StCats Youth provides a platform for students to explore complex ideas and communicate them with clarity and confidence. What stood out this year was the depth of thinking and the willingness of students to challenge perspectives in a meaningful way.” 

The first evening set a powerful tone, sparking curiosity and engagement, and building anticipation for the further ideas and perspectives explored in the second event.

Friday 13 March – Exploring Identity, Innovation, and the Future

The Friday evening programme carried this energy forward, with students exploring themes of technology, human behaviour, creativity, and personal growth.

A strong thread throughout the evening focused on the human mind, behaviour, and personal growth. Talks explored how we think, learn, and develop, from Alan S. (Year 8) reflecting on how we can prepare our brains for the future, to Michaela D. (Year 10) examining ADHD and the nature of “hobby hopping.” Leo M. (Year 10) explored the idea of focus and discipline in “locking in,” while Paul Z. (Year 9) added a scientific dimension, exploring how music shapes the brain.

Students also engaged with technology and its influence on society, raising important questions about the future. Minje K. (Year 9) examined the limits of authority in creating artificial intelligence and Sicong S. (Year 9) explored the complexities of anonymity in the digital world.

The evening also highlighted themes of identity, creativity, and expression. Siming S. (Year 9) reflected on the hidden realities of performing, Alisa S. (Year 12) explored the power of not conforming, Charalampia C. (Harly, Year 11) reflecting on how perspective shapes our experience of life and Cecilia P. (Year 12) offered a unique perspective in “Why Einstein Was a Novelist,” connecting science and creativity.

Alongside these themes, individual talks brought distinctive perspectives to the programme. Alex G. (Year 7) explored the psychology behind our fascination with the Rubik’s Cube, while Chloe K. (Year 10) reflected on the idea of generational optimism.

Ms Sophia Tzellos mentioned about the event:

“These talks reflect not only creativity and individuality, but also the courage to express ideas that matter. It was inspiring to see students take ownership of their voice and engage the audience so thoughtfully,”

Each talk represented many hours of preparation, reflection, and dedication. Standing alone on stage can be both exciting and daunting, yet our speakers embraced the challenge with confidence and courage.

Our IB CAS students played a central role in bringing this year’s TEDx event to life. Acting as mentors and coaches, they supported speakers throughout their journey, while some also stepped onto the stage as presenters themselves. Their leadership ensured that the event was a true celebration of collaboration, creativity, and student initiative.

The evenings were further enriched by a vibrant programme of performances, including piano pieces, voice solos, the Jazz Dance Club, and our Rock Band, creating a dynamic and celebratory atmosphere throughout both nights.