The inspirational presentation at TEDx by 14-year-old Hà Khánh Phương (9th grader at Vinschool Middle School – The Harmony) impressed many with her profound and clear arguments. As the youngest speaker at the event, Khánh Phương surprised and moved many by combining her childhood love for stars with the growing issue of “light pollution” in major cities.
TED is a nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas, usually in the form of short, powerful talks. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share ideas worth spreading all over the world.
Embodying the TEDx spirit, Khánh Phương’s shared her own ideas in her presentation, with her own idealistic, innocent views about very pressing issues. Through a logical narrative, and with an inspirational approach, Khánh Phương brought the audience back to their childhood when they first saw the stars. Since she first saw them, each of her stages of maturity has been closely linked to the stars. It is this special connection that has brought to her attention an alarming environmental problem light pollution!
Khánh Phương shared that few know that light pollution is negatively affecting 80% of the world’s population, including nocturnal animals and the ecosystem. Artificial light has brought about modern convenience but has also negatively impacted the natural environment, affecting all our lives. Khánh Phương encouraged everyone to simply change their everyday habits to limit the use of artificial light.
Videos of Khánh Phương’s presentation are made available on TEDx’s official YouTube page.
American photographer Justin Mott – who was also one of the speakers at this event – shared: “Khánh Phương gave an amazing presentation that moved many hearts. I was so surprised to hear such a young lady talk about the environment with such passion.”
From a timid girl to a talented speaker
Originally a timid and not very confident girl when faced with a crowd, Hà Khánh Phương has become the youngest speaker at TEDxHanoi 2019.
The 13 minutes on the TEDx stage was anything but a dream to Khánh Phương since she was small. This experience is now a source of inspiration for her to continue improving herself, and become a lovely, confident young lady.
“My frequent participation in debate clubs, being an MC for school events, and the assistance of teachers has helped me to shed my shyness, confidently display my strength, and pursue my dream. Today, having become a TEDx speaker, I still cannot believe it!”, Khánh Phương said.
With her sharp mind and an excellent command of English, Khánh Phương has won many recognitions at international and domestic debates. She is also one of the talented faces frequently seen at the Vinschool’s GATE Center, taking courses designed by the GATE Center for the purpose of her personal development. Among her achievements to date, one is being among the 3 youngest participants at the Final Round of the 2017 EF Challenge National Competition; Top 2 Regional in the World Scholar’s Cup Competition 2017; and most recently winning first place with her team at the Global Champions 2018.
TEDx Hanoi 2019 has just successfully taken place and has attracted such notable speakers as: Chair of Fulbright University Viet Nam Đàm Bích Thủy; American photographer Justin Mott; Ngô Di Lân, founder of VYCO; and many other notable artists and entrepreneurs.
