7 Ideas Worth Spreading: TEDxGateway Mumbai 2024

Hrishikesh Karekar
4 min readMar 3, 2024

Amazing Stories on Innovation, Resilience, and Social Impact

The stage was set, the lights dimmed, and minds eagerly awaited the flood of ideas about to be unleashed. TEDxGateway 2024, held at the iconic NCPA Mumbai, proved to be a beacon of inspiration, bringing together a diverse array of speakers from across the globe. From poets to scientists, social workers to entrepreneurs, each presenter illuminated the audience with unique insights and endeavors. While all the speakers had stories worth sharing and inspirational, these seven definitely hit a chord with me.

1. Education Reform for Social Equity: Parmita Sarma

Parmita Sarma, co-founder of Akshar Foundation, led the creation of Akshar Foundation's model school, Akshar Forum in Guwahati. Her dedication to education reform in underserved communities reflects a commitment to social equity and inclusive development.

2. Resilience and Redemption: Avneesh Kumar

Avneesh Kumar, emerging from five years of incarceration in one of the world's most dangerous prisons, embarked on a path of social reform through Project Kunji (Prison Helpline). His journey is a testament to the human capacity for resilience and the transformative power of redemption.

Image source: https://www.secondchancefellowship.org/meet-our-fellows

3. Empowering Youth for Social Change: Revant Hemantsingka

Revant Hemantsingka, the young crusader fighting against false marketing and low-quality ingredients in food products, emerged as a symbol of empowerment and advocacy. His social media activism and legal battles against multinational corporations inspire others to stand up for consumer rights and food safety.

Image source: https://www.ndtvprofit.com/business/bournvita-row-foodpharmer-declares-victory-over-mondelez

4. Innovation for Social Impact: James Joseph

James Joseph, the inventor of Jackfruit Flour, showcased how simple yet innovative solutions can have a profound impact on public health. His patented invention aims to control blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, highlighting the potential of food technology in addressing societal challenges.

Image source: https://www.thenewsminute.com/kerala/burgers-pancakes-man-s-jackfruit-revolution-wins-him-national-award-134884

5. Resilience and Advocacy: Anurag Maloo

Anurag Maloo, Mountaineer turned Advocate for UN Sustainable Development Goals, shared his journey of resilience and advocacy. His survival story after a fatal fall into a crevasse on Mount Annapurna in Nepal serves as a testament to human perseverance and the power of collective action.

Image source: https://www.mid-day.com/sunday-mid-day/article/anurag-maloo-rescue-mumbai-mountaineers-highlight-challenges-and-risks-associated-with-mountaineering-23282244

6. Busting Maritime Crimes: Dyhia Belhabib

Dyhia Belhabib, the maritime crime fighter, highlighted her efforts in investigating and busting crimes at sea. As the co-founder of nautical crime investigation services, her work sheds light on the challenges faced in protecting our oceans and maritime resources.

Image source: https://www.tedxgateway.com/speakers/dyhia-belhabib

7. Environmental Activism in Action: Vinu Daniel

Vinu Daniel, the principal architect of WALLMAKERS, emphasized crafting architectural spaces that harmonize with the environment. Daniel's work is known for inventive and experimental materials and techniques and reflects the intersection of architecture and environmental sustainability.

Image Source: https://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/architect-vinu-daniel-on-his-sustainable-buildings/article25517583.ece

While these highlighted speakers left a lasting impact, it's important to note that each presenter at TEDxGateway 2024 shared equally inspiring stories and insights, contributing to an event filled with remarkable ideas and powerful messages.

TEDxGateway 2024 was more than just a conference; it was a celebration of human ingenuity, creativity, and resilience. Each speaker ignited a spark of inspiration, urging the audience to reflect, innovate, and take action in creating a better world. As we carry forth the torch of knowledge and insight gained from this event, let us remember that it is through collective effort and unwavering determination that we can turn ideas into reality and shape a brighter future for generations to come.

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