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Students inspire at TEDx JPC
5 May 2025
At the inaugural TEDx JPC event, eight students, as well as Deputy Principal Michael O’Keeffe, from John Paul College, Frankston, used this unique platform to speak about issues they are passionate about.
TEDx was an incredible opportunity to share our passion for empathy and human connection on a global stage. It was both nerve-racking and exhilarating, but we learned the power of vulnerability in creating real connections. Seeing the audience react and knowing our words sparked thought were deeply rewarding. TEDx boosted our confidence, proving that our voices matter and our ideas can make an impact (Sydney and Nadia, Year 9 speakers).
The topics covered by the speakers ranged from neurodiversity and empathy to AI and teacher shortages. Their unique perspectives engaged the audience and raised thought-provoking questions.
Despite my nerves and lack of confidence as a speaker, I learned that people will listen if you take the chance to speak up. My advice to future TEDx speakers: don’t be afraid, be confident and HAVE FUN (Emily, Year 8 speaker).
The speakers spent months preparing their topics, developing their communication skills and gaining the confidence to use their voice.
Hosting TEDx JPC reflects the college’s commitment to empowering voices, fostering curiosity and embracing innovation in education. The event was initiated and coordinated by Michael O’Keeffe, who was particularly committed to walking alongside the students and delivering his own TEDx talk.
Michael wanted to experience the same process the students did – to plan, write, rehearse and share something meaningful. As a teacher and leader with lots of public speaking experience, the TEDx style of presenting pushed him further than any presentation he has done before and gave him real insight into how the students were navigating this format of presenting.
Through these opportunities, students at Melbourne ÃÛÌÒÊÓÆµ Catholic Schools (ÃÛÌÒÊÓÆµ) schools are able to challenge themselves, to be courageous, to use their voices and to flourish.
The TEDx JPC event was filmed by the college’s media students, who have also edited the videos and uploaded them to the TEDx Talks YouTube channel. Watch the speeches via the following links or refer to the program:
- – Eleanor McCraith
- – Rahul Subramanian
- – Nicholas Armstrong
- – Sydney Dave and Nadia Hadjiloizou
- – Emily Swannie
- – Abigail Arms
- – Blake Livera
- – Michael O’Keeffe.