Theme: Breaking Barriers

On 2 November 2024, TEDxUNYP will bring together 15 visionary speakers and performers to challenge the ordinary and explore what it means to break through barriers.

Join us for an unforgettable day of thought-provoking talks, bold ideas, and incredible performances that push boundaries and inspire action.

O2 Universum
Českomoravská 2345/17
Prague, Praha 9, 190 00
Czech Republic

420PEOPLE

Contemporary Dance Group

420PEOPLE is a renowned contemporary dance company based in Prague, known for pushing the boundaries of artistic expression both in the Czech Republic and internationally. With a focus on original choreography and cutting-edge performances, the company blends artistic innovation with technical mastery. 420PEOPLE engages audiences through live performances and digital platforms, creating an immersive dialogue with the public. Beyond the stage, they offer workshops, screenings, and online projects, enriching the cultural landscape through a diverse range of artistic activities.

Ard Kelmendi

AI Specialist at McCann Prague

Ard is a computer scientist and AI specialist with a background in backend development and deep-learning interpretability. Passionate about the creative aspects of technology, Ard directed the short documentary Code of Illusion, exploring social media impersonation through AI, which was screened at festivals worldwide. He has also worked on real-time image generation projects, blending the digital and physical worlds through innovative AI models. Ard views coding as a creative process, uniting technology and storytelling in new, impactful ways.

Barbora Mechúrová

Founder of MedicRise

Barbora is a physician, communication skills lecturer, and founder of MedicRise, a non-profit focused on improving communication in healthcare. Specializing in psychiatry, she also teaches at the 3rd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, while pursuing postgraduate studies in Medical Psychology. Barbora is currently training in Gestalt psychotherapy and shares her reflections on health and wellness through her blog. In her free time, she enjoys yoga, creative writing, and exploring the city on long walks.

Elmira Lyapina

Legal Expert & Researcher at UNYP

Elmira is a legal expert and researcher specializing in international law, with a Ph.D. from Charles University and an LL.M. from the University of Greenwich and UNYP. She teaches and conducts research at the University of New York in Prague, focusing on human rights and international business law. Elmira is also the co-founder of KITAP, an NGO promoting Tatar and Turkic culture in the Czech Republic. A previous TEDxUNYP speaker, she is passionate about fostering inclusivity and cultural understanding.

Eva Dreyfus

Psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health (NUDZ)

Eva holds an MSc in Clinical Psychology from Utrecht University and a BSc in Psychology from Empire State University and UNYP. She is a psychologist at NUDZ (National Institute of Mental Health), where she focuses on complex psychological conditions. Eva’s research centers on the General Factor of Psychopathology and its role in predicting mental health outcomes. With prior experience in communication at Coca-Cola, she combines her expertise to bridge clinical research and practice, aiming to redefine mental health through a deeper understanding of psychological factors.

Eyal Frayden

Lecturer at UNYP & Charles University

Eyal is a lecturer at UNYP and Charles University. With extensive experience in international markets, he focuses on growth strategies and client relationships. Eyal teaches “Emotions as a Marketing Tool,” blending theory with real-world applications in marketing, storytelling, and emotional persuasion. He holds a BA from Ben-Gurion University and an MBA from UNYP, combining business expertise with academic insights to bridge business development and marketing education.

Isabel Volava

Dancer, Performer, and Young Creative

Isabel is a world champion in contemporary and jazz dance, having won the 2024 Junior Division Championship in the Czech Republic against 850 choreographies. A member of Movement Studios, Isabel has earned multiple gold and silver medals in international competitions. Beyond dance, she’s a versatile artist, appearing in global film and TV projects, and composing her own music on piano and guitar. Known for her academic excellence as well, Isabel is always exploring new creative avenues, embodying a passion for growth and connection through all her artistic pursuits.

Jakub Henni

General Manager & Co-Founder of Nesnězeno by Munch

Jakub is the Co-Founder and General Manager of Nesnězeno by Munch, a leading app combatting food waste in the CEE region. Launched in 2018, Nesnězeno has expanded to four countries, saving over 2.5 million meals and securing partnerships with major brands like Starbucks. With over 2 million app downloads, Jakub’s innovative approach has made a significant impact. In 2024, he was recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30 for his contributions to sustainability and entrepreneurship.

Jana Kukutschová

Professor of Materials Science at VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava

Jana is a professor of materials science at VŠB-Technical University of Ostrava and leads the Nanotechnology study program. Her research focuses on the environmental and health impacts of nanomaterials, particularly emissions from non-combustion processes like automotive brake wear. Jana has presented her work internationally and is also involved in initiatives to reduce the risky use of nanomaterials, such as titanium dioxide nanoparticles, in kindergartens. Her work aims to make materials safer for both humans and the environment.

Lucie Bášová

Co-Founder of MUMDOO

Lucie is a marketer, entrepreneur, and co-founder of MUMDOO, a platform that supports professionals balancing careers and parenthood. MUMDOO connects over 450 ambitious professionals and advocates for the needs of Czech parents staying engaged in their fields while caring for their families. Lucie’s international experience and drive to challenge the status quo have earned her recognition as one of the Top 10 Innovators of 2023 by Hospodářské noviny, opening doors to major corporations and government leaders.

Petr Jirsa

Czech Content Creator

Petr is the content creator behind Česká stopa, a platform sharing stories from Czech history with thousands of followers on TikTok and Instagram. Since launching in 2022, Petr has made Czech history accessible to younger audiences, amassing over 80,000 TikTok followers. A recent graduate in International Relations from the University of New York in Prague, Petr credits his university experience with inspiring him to start his platform. He also served as Vice-President of the UNYP Student Council.

Rob Lipsett

Fitness Entrepreneur, Content Creator, and Author

Rob is a fitness entrepreneur and founder of brands like Game Plan and Fuel Cakes. Originally from Dublin, Rob has built a global platform, inspiring over 1.1 million followers through his online coaching, YouTube channel, and podcast. He combines fitness advice with a focus on mindset and well-being, helping people achieve both personal and professional success. Rob’s work has been featured in Men’s Health, GQ, and more, and he continues to motivate others through his content and entrepreneurial ventures.

Sahba Rohani

Executive Director at Roots ConnectED

Sahba is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Roots ConnectED, launched in 2017 to transform schools and workplaces through a focus on diversity and inclusion. With over a decade of experience at Community Roots Charter School in Brooklyn, Sahba is passionate about creating intentionally integrated communities. She holds an MA from Teachers College, Columbia University, and speaks widely on education and racial justice. Her work reflects her deep belief in the oneness of humanity, shaped by her Persian-American heritage and Baha'i faith.

Sean Swarner

World Record Holding Adventurer & Cancer Survivor

Sean is a world-renowned adventurer and cancer survivor, known for being the only person to summit Everest and all Seven Summits, ski to both Poles, and complete the Hawaii Ironman—all with one lung after surviving two terminal cancers. Sean is a motivational speaker, inspiring countless people worldwide through his incredible resilience and world-record achievements. His story has been featured in an Emmy-nominated Amazon film and on global media platforms, empowering audiences to break through their own limitations.

Tolu Adebekun

Data Leader & Podcaster

Tolu is a data leader, former semi-professional basketball player, and a passionate advocate for leadership, emotional intelligence, and personal development. With over a decade of experience in corporate settings, Tolu helps organizations leverage data for strategic growth. He is also a 5x podcast host, discussing topics such as leadership, emotional intelligence, and faith. Tolu draws from his diverse background to inspire others in overcoming limiting mindsets and achieving their personal and professional best.