On April 29, seven student speakers took the stage for LWHS’ 4th Annual TEDxLick-Wilmerding HS, to share stories centered on the theme of Belonging: Identity, Power, and the Stories We Carry. Through their deeply personal presentations, the students encouraged reflection, challenged assumptions, and sparked meaningful dialogue. 

Each year, TEDx LWHS invites students to share an idea or perspective that is important to them. Students combine their writing and public speaking skills with a topic they are passionate about, resulting in a night of compelling and heartwarming stories. It's always a special night for LWHS, and this year was no exception.

The 2026 student lineup featured Arman A. ’27, Artemis B. ’27, Siddarth C. ’26, Sachin D. ’27, Sonia G. ’27, Raya M. ’27, and Emma R. ’28.

Arman examined neurodiversity at LWHS, confronting myths and misconceptions while advocating for stronger understanding and belonging for neurodivergent students. Artemis reflected on the often unseen art of stage lighting and the role theatre plays in creating community at LWHS. Drawing from years of work behind the scenes at school productions and past TEDx events, Artemis connected stage lighting to the larger power of inclusion and visibility, sharing the idea that “illuminating others lights me up.”

Emma spoke candidly about “the reality of imposter syndrome at LWHS and other communities that can feel intimidating or demeaning,” encouraging students to recognize that struggles with belonging are often shared more widely than they seem. Though giving the talk felt “scary,” Emma explained that “there were things about it that genuinely had to be said and I didn’t want to let any fear prevent me from voicing them.” Afterward, hearing from students and parents who connected with the talk reminded Emma that “my feelings weren’t just my own but something others shared as well.”

A number of speakers linked their personal experiences to systemic structures of inequity and social justice. Raya called upon insights gained from teaching English in Bulgaria to reflect on the roots of prejudice and stereotyping, highlighting the inherent danger of false narratives in shaping our understanding of others. Sachin explored disparities in access to green spaces across San Francisco and the health inequities that follow, highlighting how environmental inequality shapes daily life and well-being. Meanwhile, Siddharth reflected on borders, immigration, and family separation, grounding global political issues in lived experience and personal history.

Sonia examined gender inequality and the power of first-person narratives in addressing sexual violence. Inspired by personal experiences within Sonia’s own family, the talk focused on how stories and literacy can shape empathy and challenge harmful rhetoric. Reflecting on the process, Sonia shared that “sharing stories is a form of resistance and a preventative tool,” adding that stories “actively contribute to the way the people around you move through the world.” Sonia also described a meaningful moment during the event, recalling that “every time I looked out at the audience I could see Dr. Wall smiling, nodding, and fully listening to me.” That support, Sonia said, was “very grounding” and served as a reminder that “our community extends far beyond the people who happen to be in your classes.”

Christy Godinez, Director of the Center for Civic Engagement and organizer of the event, has seen TEDx LWHS grow: “We are seeing an increase in students interested in sharing their stories and in being involved in the planning process,” Godinez noted, reflecting on the event with gratitude for the speakers and the behind-the-scenes team alike. “I’m proud of so many moments from TEDx, especially the dedication and passion our speakers brought to their talks.”

Special thanks to Christy and student leaders Ativ M. ’26, Jacqueline S. ’26, and Ivana M. ’26 for organizing this year’s event, as well as to the seven courageous and compassionate student speakers who transformed the TEDx stage into a space of vulnerability and connection. Together, their work demonstrates the power of storytelling to build community, increase empathy, and inspire optimism.