MEET THE SPEAKERS

Ideas. People.

Great ideas begin with people willing to look beyond what already exist. Through their unique experiences, our speakers invite us to look towards new horizons and discover oppurtunities we may have never considered.

Limitless horizons

Get to know the voices behind the ideas...

Nawal Ntsele is a second-year Biomedical Science student at Victoria University of Wellington, a writer, creative, and previous Head Girl. Originally from South Africa and now based in Wellington, she is passionate about volunteering, storytelling, art, poetry writing and all outdoor activities. Nawal believes deeply in putting yourself out there, even when the outcome is uncertain, because the right opportunity often comes from taking brave chances. In her TEDxPaparangi Youth talk, “What If Your One Life-Changing Yes Is Hidden Behind 1000 No’s?”, Nawal explores how failure can become the pathway to success. She challenges the common perception of failure as something to fear, and instead reframes it as a necessary part of growth, resilience, and becoming limitless. Through her talk, she also confronts the fear of being different and being seen, encouraging young people to embrace what makes them stand out rather than shrink themselves to fit in.

Nawal Ntsele

“Habang may buhay, may pag‑asa.” While there is life, there is hope, and Betty carries that hope into their mahi. Betty is a young, passionate creative and advocate. Whether they are behind the camera, speaking in different settings, or volunteering in the community, Betty aims to lead conversations and carry their story. Currently a Year 13 student at Taieri College, this changemaker is actively involved in several initiatives that centre on and are led by young people. Betty also co-hosts Unboxed Identities, a podcast on OAR FM Youth Zone amplifying the voices of diverse rakatahi across the motu.

Betty Pagulayan

Aditi Tiwari is a youth advocate, community organiser, and change maker. A first-generation migrant wahine, her work spans youth advocacy, governance, climate action, and community development across Aotearoa. She currently works in the not-for-profit sector as a Youth Engagement and Project Coordinator, designing initiatives that empower rangatahi, particularly those from migrant and refugee backgrounds. Alongside her community leadership work, Aditi is completing a Master of Business Analysis, applying analytical thinking and strategic problem-solving to complex social and organisational challenges. Aditi serves as Regional Liaison for the Oceania-Caribbean Climate Alliance, is an incoming Vice Curator of Global Shapers Wellington Hub, an initiative of the World Economic Forum, and is a Central Area Councillor for New Zealand Red Cross. In 2025, she ran as one of the youngest candidates in the Porirua City Council elections and the only South Asian wahine candidate. Passionate about representation and creating pathways for young people to thrive, her leadership is guided by the principles of decolonise, democratise, and decarbonise.

Aditi Tiwari

Ronan Melville grew up between Scotland and New Zealand, which gave him an early instinct for navigating spaces he didn't quite belong in, and for leading without a fixed foundation. That instinct has taken him far. At 21, Ronan is completing a Bachelor of Global Studies at Victoria University of Wellington. He has served as a Political & Economic Affairs Advisor at the Embassy of Mexico, a Public Diplomacy Advisor at the U.S. Embassy in Wellington, and a member of the British High Commission's Kōtare network. He co-chairs International Development Young Professionals NZ and has been named a TheirWorld and HundrED Global Youth Ambassador. He has also crewed a tall ship, tutored English to speakers of other languages, and coached basketball to Special Olympics athletes; experiences he considers at least as formative as any of the above.

Ronan Melville

Hi, I'm Sean Fernandez, a Year 13 student at St. John's College in Hastings, New Zealand. I am passionate about debate, theatre, public speaking, and medicine, and I hope to pursue a career as a surgeon in the future. Growing up across different cultures and countries has shaped the way I see the world, inspiring me to question assumptions and explore new perspectives. My TEDx talk is inspired by the Greek myth of Icarus. While many people remember Icarus as a warning against ambition, I believe there is another side to the story that is often overlooked. Through this speech, I explore our relationship with ambition, dreams, and the fear of failure, asking why society is often so quick to discourage those who dare to reach beyond what seems possible. By re-examining the story of Icarus, I hope to encourage others to embrace their aspirations and recognise the value of pursuing horizons that may seem just out of reach.

Sean Gerard Fernandez

Mitchell McJorrow is a Year 13 student studying the IB Diploma at Scots College. He is involved in a wide range of pursuits, from mathematics competitions to captaining the Scots College rowing team. Alongside his studies, Mitchell works as a mathematics tutor, Kumon instructor, and rowing coach, and is passionate about helping others reach their full potential. Through his TEDx talk "The Myth of Being Naturally Gifted", Mitchell aims to challenge the belief that success is reserved only for those born with exceptional talent. Drawing on personal experiences and insights from education, sport, and mathematics, he explores how limiting beliefs about ability can prevent us from pursuing our goals. His message encourages audiences to break free from fixed mindsets, embrace growth, and realise that extraordinary achievement is often the product of persistence rather than natural talent.

Mitchell McJorrow

As Year 12 student at Wellington College, James van der Zouwe is driven by a passion for leadership, communication, and community. A confident public speaker and dedicated footballer, James represents both school and club while also contributing to the school choir and pursuing a strong interest in acting and film. Beyond the classroom, James is actively involved in shaping the school community through leading the Volunteer Club, peer tutoring, Tuakana Teina mentoring, and coaching football. His love of the outdoors is reflected in a passion for tramping and skiing, balancing academic and extracurricular commitments with adventure. Following a three-month exchange in the Netherlands, James developed a broader global perspective and a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures and ideas. This experience now informs a TEDx talk that aims to challenge perspectives, spark meaningful conversation, and inspire young people to think differently about the world around them.

James van der Zouwe

We spend so much time chasing the opportunities we can see - but what about the ones we don't even know are there? That's the question driving Aarthi Kannan's exploration of this year's theme. Growing up across Finland, New Zealand, and the United States taught her that every new perspective has the power to open a door she never knew was there. With a background in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence from Victoria University of Wellington, she now works as a graduate consultant in PWC's Digital & Data Transformation team. Beyond her professional career, Aarthi is a passionate community leader, having served across numerous university and community organisations, including as Executive Producer of the inaugural TEDxYouth@Paparangi in 2022. She's fascinated by the hidden opportunities that reshape the way we see the world - and by the possibilities that emerge when We begin questioning the assumptions we've always taken for granted.