The 2021 TEDxAmadorValleyHigh event, featuring many well-versed speakers and hardworking performers, was hosted by Erik Scherer on March 17th.

Erik Scherer, one of Amador’s librarians, worked tirelessly in creating the yearly event that has become a staple in the Don Community.

The background team consisted of many people from the Media class who helped out with cameras and lighting so that the event could run smoothly without any hiccups.

The event required many background helpers, but a few were instrumental on stage as well. Jessie Chan (’23) was an Emcee who led the event.

Molly Wildy started the event off with her talk about the struggles that she faces living with epilepsy. Her talk was a reminder that everyone is able to still move forward, even through their struggles.

Hiya Shah (’22) describes the need for code in our modern world and urges everyone to learn the languages. She touched briefly about how people of all ages and genders could still help move the technology industry forward, and how simple it is if one just learns to code.

Kaviya Raja performed a poem talking about human connections throughout lockdown.

John Lester (’21), a cross country and track and field runner, explains how having a positive mindset has helped him increase his times in running. He also talked about how thinking optimistically helped him move forward from his not-so-good days.

Amala Rao (’21) was the second Emcee, and she also helped make sure that the event ran smoothly from the backend.

Rachel Zhang (’21) touched on her experiences working in the Wheelchair Foundation, and how her trip to South America opened here eyes to the struggles that many people face on a daily basis. Her speech was about the right to mobility for all humans.

David Qiu (’21) performed an energetic number where he used his jump rope to perform diverse tricks for motivation around Amador.

While describing her experiences getting a black belt in Taekwondo, Avery Kuo also talked about the importance of mental strength, and how it grows with physical strength.

Aishwarya Krupashankar (’24), performed a traditional South Indian dance called the shabdham, where she dances with emotions along to traditional music.

Yash Maheshwaran (’21) described his experience working with kids with special needs through basketball. He talked about how no one realizes that everyone has disabilities and that it is important to respect everyone, and their uniqueness.

Ishmeet Dhillon performed an Indian Classical piece in the raaga Kirwani, incorporating both traditional and western influences to create a fusion piece.

Nick Jiang spoke about his experiences with kids who stutter, and how he grew from his respect and empathy for people who are unique.

As the last performer, Niko Macario performed an original rock piece which he coined the Drive. It was truly the best way to end the program!

From the left to right: Andrew Harper (’21), Esha Shah (’21), Rut Bansal (’21), Sonali Carumbaya (’21), Madison Charbonneau, Amala Rao (’21), Erik Scherer