About
TEDxFLAME University 2025 is a program of locally self-organised events that brings people together to share a TEDx-like experience. Having organised seven editions, we are on a mission to discover and spread ideas that spark imagination, embrace possibilities and catalyse impact.

Mission
TEDxFLAME University is on a mission to seek those with insights brimming with potential, and inquisitive ears to listen. By being a catalyst for interdisciplinary dialogue and community engagement, we are inclined to leave behind a lasting legacy for the driving force of growth amongst the participants and attendees.

History and About the Team
TEDxFLAME University is a locally self-organized program designed to bring people together for a TEDx-inspired experience, and has garnered attention in the media channels like the Pune Mirror. Over the years, we have successfully hosted 7 TEDxFLAMEUniversity events, and our upcoming eighth edition is set to be our largest yet, with over 1,800 attendees expected on campus, organized by 83 individuals from diverse walks of life.

Theme
Inspired by the concept of a synapse-where two neurons connect to communicate-the theme for the seventh edition of TEDxFLAME University symbolises the bridge between thought and action, and idealises our own hidden potentials. Aiming to be an apt portrait of our vision for TEDxFLAME University'25, this theme represents our passion to ignite impact from ideas, and transform our reality, starting with the power of the stage.

“Get your access to a one in a life-time experience”: https://forms.gle/gEYaQ3Th9Q8phj5j9

Other Socials: LinkedIn | Instagram | TEDxProfile | 2022-23 Page | TEDx 2024-25 Page

About Speakers!

Dr. Ganesh Natarajan
Designation: Executive Chairman and Co-Founder, 5F World, GTT Data Solutions Ltd., and Lighthouse Communities Foundation; Chairman, Honeywell Automation India
About: Dr. Ganesh Natarajan is a distinguished leader in technology-driven innovation, with over 25 years of experience, including two successful CEO tenures. He has chaired NASSCOM and NASSCOM Foundation and served on various national and industry boards. Recognized for his contributions to entrepreneurship and leadership, he is a sought-after speaker, author of 14 books, and an advocate for digital success and sustainability in corporate and social sectors.

Dr. Samir Parekh
Designation: Director, Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, Fortis Healthcare
About: A leading psychiatrist, Dr. Parekh is renowned for his work in promoting mental health awareness and providing accessible mental health care across India. Dr. Parekh was instrumental in launching India’s first National Adolescent Mental Health Program, bringing the conversation on mental health to schools and colleges nationwide, and helping young people access the support they need.

Ms. Anu Vaidyanathan
Designation: Triathlete, Author, and Founder, PatNMarks
About: An accomplished endurance athlete and entrepreneur, Ms. Vaidyanathan inspires through her experiences in sports and business. She made history as the first Asian woman to complete the Ultraman Canada, one of the world's most gruelling endurance races. Her venture, PatNMarks, not only helps startups and companies protect their intellectual property but also works with inventors from underserved communities, empowering them to secure patents and trademarks, making innovation accessible to all.

Dr. Abhilasha Gaur
Designation: CEO, IT-ITeS Sector Skills Council
About: Dr. Abhilasha Gaur brings 22 years of expertise in business development, government projects, and skill development to her role as CEO of IT-ITeS SSC. Formerly associated with Electronics SSC, she has worked closely with MSDE, NSDC, and MeitY. Known for her leadership and Lean Six Sigma proficiency, she is poised to advance the council’s mission of driving India’s skill development charter.

Mr. Sandeep Rai
Designation: CEO and Founder, The Circle India
About: Sandeep Rai is an education reformer dedicated to eliminating educational inequity. After starting his career as a Teach For America corps member, he helped launch Teach For India in 2008, a movement impacting millions of children through Fellows and Alumni. In 2022, he founded The Circle, which has launched 18 programs serving 5,000 students and worked with 8,500 educators to uplift low-income communities. An author of Grey Sunshine, Sandeep also serves on advisory and governing boards of organizations transforming education in India.

Ms. Amita Deshpande
Designation: Founder, reCharkha - The EcoSocial Tribe and My EcoSocial Planet; Project Designer and Lead of Project - Zero Waste Tadoba, Know How Foundation
About: A social entrepreneur, Ms. Deshpande leads efforts in sustainability by creating eco-friendly products from recycled plastic, turning waste into beautiful, handcrafted lifestyle items. Amita's initiative has helped upcycle over 10,000 kilograms of plastic waste, creating a positive environmental impact while providing livelihoods to marginalised communities.

Dr. Ali Khwaja
Designation: Founder, Banjara Academy
About: Dr. Ali Khwaja is a renowned counselor, educator, and founder of Banjara Academy, an institution dedicated to personal development, career counseling, and life skills training. With over four decades of experience, he has empowered thousands to make informed career choices, overcome personal challenges, and enhance emotional well-being. A strong advocate for mental health awareness, he is committed to reducing the stigma around counseling and fostering holistic growth through his programs and motivational workshops.