30 April 2025
As the founder of an organisation rooted in the narrow lanes of Ambedkar Nagar, Mumbai, I never imagined I’d one day be in Vancouver, Canada, attending TED 2025 as a guest of Acumen India. I had to read the invitation email twice to believe it. TED has long inspired me and now, I was going to be part of it.
I was thrilled to meet global leaders and changemakers, though nervous to speak for one minute about the OSCAR Foundation to over 100 leaders. I practiced a lot; it was a big moment to share our story in such a powerful space.
The energy at TED was electric. This year’s theme, “Humanity Reimagined,” focused heavily on Artificial Intelligence (AI). Though relatively new to me, I was struck by how AI is being used to solve real-world challenges, from early disease detection to assistive robots, medicine creation and even filmmaking. A conversation between TED’s Chris Anderson and OpenAI’s Sam Altman explored AI’s risks and the need for safety. It left me reflecting deeply on our shared responsibility in this rapidly changing world.
I loved Vancouver, its vibrant streets, parks and waterfront. A city of nature, warmth and movement.
A true highlight was meeting the Acumen 15 cohort, fierce, committed leaders solving tough challenges in their communities. Our conversations were energising and full of purpose.
Thank you to the TED and Acumen teams. Your belief in me means everything. I return home filled with energy, ideas and renewed purpose for OSCAR.
Special thanks to Jacqueline, Bhavindra, Kome, Mahesh, Nivritti, and Faheem. You turned a once-in-a-lifetime chance into a lifelong memory.
If we stay rooted in purpose, keep learning and act boldly, anything is possible.
With love and gratitude, From Team OSCAR to the world.