Organizing TEDxPORPS Youth has been one of the most intense and meaningful journeys of my life. As a Grade 12 science student at AMS P. Obul Reddy Public School, balancing academics with the responsibility of building an event of this scale is anything but simple, but it is absolutely worth it. From planning and coordination to overcoming setbacks and expectations, every step demands focus, resilience, and heart.

The purpose of this event is simple yet powerful: to create a platform where ideas spark change and young voices are taken seriously. TEDxPORPS Youth is about challenging norms, celebrating innovation, and giving students and speakers a stage to share stories, perspectives, and possibilities that can inspire others. It is not just an event; it’s a catalyst for curiosity, conversation, and courage.

This event wouldn’t exist without the people standing beside me. Our Principal and Teacher In Charge's trust gives me the foundation to bring this vision to campus. My co-organizer, Vasundhara, matches my effort and stands by me through every challenge, sharing every responsibility from day one. My parents support me through every moment of stress and ambition, and my friends continue to be the quiet force from brainstorming sessions to emotional rescue missions pushing me forward when things feel overwhelming.

I also want to acknowledge our executive team, who are working tirelessly behind the scenes to turn plans into reality. Every department lead and volunteer is putting in time, heart, and strength to ensure that no detail is left behind. Their dedication is transforming a vision into an experience.

Leadership isn’t just something I do; it’s who I am. I thrive when I’m guiding a team, solving problems, bringing order to chaos, and believing in people until they start believing in themselves too. I’m constantly learning how to listen, how to act under pressure, and how to create spaces where others can shine. These experiences shape not only how I lead today, but also the future I’m working toward.

I dream of becoming a pilot. The responsibility, precision, calm under pressure, decision-making, and discipline that the role demands are qualities I continue to build through experiences like this one. Leading TEDxPORPS Youth strengthens the same skills I hope to one day carry into a cockpit; confidence, accountability, teamwork, and the ability to stay composed even when the sky isn’t clear.
Animals hold a big part of my heart too, especially my golden retriever, Simba, who is my emotional support, stress relief, and fluffy co-pilot through it all.

This event isn’t just a project, it’s a testimony to persistence, collaboration, and the belief that young people can make things happen. TEDxPORPS Youth is a dream in motion, and I’m grateful to every person helping write this story with me.

- Chinmayee Ukkalam