In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized (subject to certain rules and regulations).

Jill Solberg Performing Arts Center
1999 Prarie City Road
Folsom, California, 95630
United States

Ananya Ravidas

Student

Ananya Ravidas is a junior at Folsom High School, as well as a Speech & Debate and SkillsUSA competitor. On weekends, she volunteers at Folsom Mercy Hospital, where she enjoys interacting with patients and staff. These experiences have inspired her to gravitate toward a future in STEM or medicine. In her journey to decide which field to pursue, she has discovered how interconnected the two worlds truly are; the field of medicine is constantly evolving alongside technological advancements. She seeks to showcase this relationship and its impact on our society today. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her friends, and playing Roblox with her siblings.

Andrew Imbesi

CEO of BogeGroup LLC

Andrew’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. He went from being a broke DoorDash driver with less than $1,000 to his name to building a $25 million business in 2.5 years Andrew has helped over 3,000 clients secure $112 million in 0% interest business credit, allowing them to grow without high-interest loans or losing equity. His expertise in funding opportunities spans various industries, empowering entrepreneurs to grow their ventures without the burden of high-interest rates. His mission is to help thousands more learn how to leverage 0% interest funding to maximize profits and improve their lives. His actionable insights on financial strategy, entrepreneurship, and funding would bring immense value to everyone.

Angela Joy

Student

Angela is an ambitious, hardworking, and creative freshman at Folsom High School. She is passionate about technology and its real-world applications. She is eager to explore the countless possibilities that technology offers for the future and is committed to expanding her knowledge about the field. In her spare time you can find her reading, spending time with close ones, or being around her pets.

Dhanya Papanasa

Student

Dhanya is a current freshman attending Folsom High school. She is extremely interested in working in the medicine industry. She can be found competing at Speech & Debate competitions. Dhanya also happens to be an extremely passionate dancer. Her weekend's are filled with volunteering at her language school, hanging out with family and friends, shopping and not to mention procrastinating over her homework.

Donna Walters

Teacher & Excecutive Director of College eSports

Donna "BasicTaq" Walters is an award-winning founder and Executive Director of College Esports, a nonprofit focused on promoting project-based learning through video games. She is also a co-founder of the California Esports Association, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering educators to create sustainable, engaging, and inclusive esports and video game programs. She has partnered with organizations such as the City of Rancho Cordova, University of the Pacific, and more to develop impactful esports initiatives. A frequent speaker at national conferences, Donna shares her expertise in both esports and higher education as a speaker, moderator, panelist, and event host. Recently, she joined Folsom High School as a Computer Science teacher, using her expertise in online spaces to inspire students through career-building opportunities that connect with their interests and technology-based experiences. For more insights into her work, check out her interview on the Gamers Change Lives.

Hansi (Henry) Liam

Student

Hansi (Henry) Lin is a junior who transferred to Folsom High School from China recently. He was the grade leader and student council president at his previous school. Additionally, he has joined the volunteering program at Folsom History Museum. Henry loves golf, vocal music, and hosting; he has won over 40 championships in golf competitions and currently sings in the school chamber choir. As a student who has experienced two distinct educational systems, he has developed a unique perspective on the impact of cultural and academic environments on personal growth and ambition. Motivated by a desire to challenge traditional notions of success, he encourages others to pursue their true passions beyond scores and rankings, aiming to inspire change through self-awareness and innovation.

Junyi (Alice) Chen

Student

Junyi (Alice) Chen is a current junior at Folsom High. She is an active member and officer of the Model UN Club in FHS, an English teacher and board member of non-profit organization Eon English, a swimmer, and a pipa player. Outside of school, Alice also enjoys reading, painting, taking pictures, and doing crafts. Through TedxFolsom High Youth 2025, Alice hopes to bring to light the power of acceptance, through accepting ourselves and accepting others.

Samara Shaheen

Student

Samara Shaheen is a freshman at Folsom High School. She has been in Hands4Hope, a community service club, for three years, and has been treasurer and vice president of the club. She has earned 150+ service hours through organizing and participating in many fundraisers for non profit organizations, such as a carnival held last year for a nonprofit called WeEmbrace, and has won the National President’s Volunteer Service Award twice in recognition for her work. She was also a part of the Speech and Debate team in middle school, and has participated in many tournaments. Passionate about science, math, English, and reading, Samara hopes to do something in the future that combines her academic interests with her leadership philosophy.

Srikar Vemuri

Student

A junior at Folsom High School with a strong passion for artificial intelligence, programming, and innovation. As the founder and CEO of ThrAIve AI, a student-led organization focused on advancing AI education and nonprofit support Srikar is dedicated to using technology for meaningful impact. They are also the lead programmer at Courseforge AI, where they are building an AI-powered platform to personalize learning experiences. In their free time, Srikar enjoys running on the distance track team, playing basketball, and spending time with family and friends as well.