Lead with a Purpose: Unleashing Inspiration at ATLAS SkillTech University’s First Ever TEDx Event

ATLAS SkillTech University, known for its commitment to skilling and empowering the youth of India, recently hosted its first-ever TEDx event, organised by Dr. Varsha Agarwal, Director- Student Research & Development Cell and Associate Professor at the university. The event brought together a diverse group of thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers to share their life stories and ideas on the theme, “Lead with a Purpose.” The day was filled with inspiring talks, thought-provoking discussions, and valuable insights that left the audience motivated and ready to make a positive impact on the world.

The event was a significant milestone for ATLAS SkillTech University, offering an excellent opportunity for students and participants to gain valuable insights from the eminent panel of speakers who have excelled in their respective fields. These speakers were individuals who had demonstrated the power of purpose-driven leadership, making a positive difference in their communities and the world at large.

Impressive line-up of speakers

The line-up of speakers was impressive, featuring a wide array of accomplished individuals who have made their mark in different domains shared their inspiring journey as youth advocates.

• Darsheel Safary, Actor
• Soham Wagh, Global Marketing Manager, GlaxoSmithKline
• Sanjeev Rao, CEO, Being Human Clothing
• Shipra Malhotra, National Award Winner Calligraphy Queen of India
• Saanvi Jamalpur, Youngest Podcaster of India, Asia Book of Record Holder
• Sunita Sancheti, Maharashtra State Paralympic
• Major Vandana Sharma, LinkedIn Top Voice 2019, International Woman Icon
• Sadashiv Nayak, Former CEO, Future Retail Ltd. & Big Bazaar
• Akshat Shah & Shubh Mehta, Environment Activists, Youth Advocates & Cofounders of Change is Us

Inaugural address by Dr. Indu Shahani

The event commenced with an inaugural address by the esteemed Dr. Indu Shahani, who emphasised the university’s vision of skilling and preparing the young minds of India for the jobs of the future. She also highlighted the importance of social responsibility and building humane qualities in students. “Leading not just with purpose but with passion as well” was a core message conveyed by Dr. Shahani. She spoke about the university’s commitment to honing skills that are rapidly evolving in the ever-changing landscape of the job market. Her powerful speech resonated deeply with the audience and encapsulated the essence of ATLAS SkillTech University’s philosophy.

“A house without music is a house without a soul; a house without books is a house without character; a house without art is a house without inspiration. Similarly, a university without purpose is no education at all.”
– Dr. Indu Shahani

The event provided a platform for thought leaders to share their life journeys and insights, inspiring the audience to embrace their purpose and drive positive change in the world. From the entertainment industry to the corporate world, from the realm of sports to the world of social entrepreneurship, each speaker showcased how their purpose-driven leadership had paved the way for success and impact. The event reinforced the university’s commitment to nurturing purposeful leaders who will shape a brighter, more purposeful future for themselves and their communities.

Harnessing Influence for Environmental Change: Insights from Shubh and Akshat

In a thought-provoking session at the ATLAS SkillTech University’s TEDx event, Shubh and Akshat, two remarkable environment activists and co-founders of “Change is Us,” shared their transformative journey, shedding light on the power of real and reel influence in creating a significant social impact.

The session commenced with a captivating debate on “Real influence versus reel influence.” Both speakers emphasized that combining these two forms of influence can amplify the reach and effectiveness of their endeavors, generating a much larger and more meaningful social impact.

The duo introduced the concept of the “Change Trilogy” as the foundation of their mission:

• Intention: Shubh and Akshat revealed that their journey as environment activists began when they encountered social media posts about climate change and news reports on the devastating fires in the Amazon rainforest. These incidents ignited a strong desire within them to create positive change through social media activism. It was during this time that they stumbled upon the idea of beach cleanups, which motivated them to embark on a mission of their own – raising awareness and driving action to protect the environment.
• Action: Inspired by their intentions, Shubh and Akshat took decisive action to influence and mobilize people through social media. Their efforts extended beyond virtual spaces as they took to the streets to address the urgent needs of the hungry migrant laborers. Through their “Mumbai Food Run,” they successfully distributed over 40,000 cooked meals to those in need across the city. The speakers demonstrated that real influence combined with actionable efforts can set in motion a butterfly effect, creating a significant positive change in the environment and the lives of many.
• Impact: The impact of their actions was nothing short of remarkable, akin to a snowball effect. Shubh and Akshat confidently asserted, “For social influence with the right intentions and the right effect, impact can grow exponentially and create a circle of influence.” They passionately explained how embracing their influence as a superpower allowed them to channel it for a purposeful intention – the betterment of society and the environment. They emphasized that everyone possesses influence, and with responsibility, it can be transformed into a powerful tool for creating positive change.

“Your influence is your superpower; use it to set a purposeful intention. Embrace the responsibility that comes with influence, for it presents a unique opportunity to drive meaningful change.”
– Akshat Shah and Shubh Mehta

Shubh and Akshat’s inspiring journey exemplified that change begins with individuals, especially young people, who have the capacity to effect transformative change on a global scale. Their session left the audience feeling motivated and empowered, igniting a spark of hope that a brighter, more sustainable future is within reach. Shubh and Akshat’s story serves as a testament to the potential of youth-led initiatives and the transformative power of harnessing influence for a purpose-driven cause.

Embracing Purpose: A Journey of Meaningful Transformation with Sanjeev Rao

During the TEDx event at ATLAS SkillTech University, the audience was privileged to hear the captivating journey of Sanjeev Rao, the CEO of the renowned streetwear fast fashion brand, ‘Being Human.’ Sanjeev, clad in clothes made from recycled plastic, shared his inspirational story, from his days as a national-level badminton player to his diverse career in the hospitality and retail industries. His transformative journey unfolded from pursuing an MBA at Wharton School to eventually honouring his inner calling and joining the mission of ‘Being Human.’

Throughout his insightful session, Sanjeev Rao highlighted the essence of purpose and its profound impact on individuals and organisations.

He expressed, “Reality mingled into reels is what gets your attention.” This notion emphasised the importance of authentic storytelling, where purpose-driven initiatives resonate more deeply with the Gen Z and millennial audience.

Drawing attention to a disheartening reality, Sanjeev pointed out that approximately 50% of the workforce do not believe that what they do matters. He shed light on the prevalent mindset that revolves around the self, money and personal success, emphasising the need to find a deeper sense of fulfilment.

“Having a purpose is the difference between making a living and making a life.”
– Sanjeev Rao

He then introduced the concept of the Maslow Pyramid, illustrating the progression from merely doing a job for survival, to pursuing a career for success and ultimately, honouring one’s calling for a life of significance. By finding and embracing their purpose, individuals can ascend this ladder and those who truly honour their calling tend to attract support and funding for their ventures more easily.

Sanjeev Rao shared insights into how ‘Being Human’ is not just a fashion brand but a platform that stands for a cause. The brand’s average workforce age of 30 years reflects the energy and dedication of young individuals committed to making a positive impact. He highlighted the role of AI in predicting fashion trends, pointing out the need for constant adaptation and innovation within the industry.

Sanjeev emphasised the Japanese concept of ‘IKIGAI,’ which involves finding a passion that brings value and joy to life. He cited an example of an Ivy League graduate who pursued a dream of starting a chai shop and successfully created a brand like Chayos. This example showcased that living with purpose can lead to remarkable achievements.

Sanjeev’s session left the audience with a profound understanding of the transformative power of purpose-driven living and the immense impact it can have on individuals, organisations and society as a whole.

Empowering Lives with Purpose: Sunita Sancheti’s Journey of Resilience and Advocacy

During the TEDx event at ATLAS SkillTech University, Sunita Sancheti, a disability activist, motivational speaker and sportsperson, graced the stage with her inspiring presence. Her transformative journey from a carefree childhood to her relentless pursuit of accessibility and inclusion left a lasting impact on the audience.

Sunita began her talk by sharing her own personal struggles. After a spine injury at the tender age of 16, she found herself facing new challenges and adjusting to life on a wheelchair. Despite the hurdles, Sunita’s indomitable spirit and thirst for learning led her to vocational courses and eventually a journey towards financial independence through accounting and taxation.

Her experiences led her to a resolute mission of improving disability accessibility in India. Sunita co-founded the “ADAPT Rights Group” – full form “Able Disable All People Together” – a group dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities. Through organisations like Nina Foundation and Trinayani, she offered counselling and wellness seminars to people with spine injuries, while also creating awareness about disability through innovative board games.

“Live life to the fullest, lead life with purpose”
– Sunita Sancheti

Sunita Sancheti wears many hats in her life journey. As a traveller, motivational speaker and sportsperson, she has bagged medals at both state and national para-badminton competitions. But her impact transcends the boundaries of sports, as she embarked on a 19,000-kilometer journey across India, advocating for accessibility and inclusive infrastructure. Sunita passionately believes that “it is the infrastructure that makes you disabled” and advocates for universal design, ensuring mobility and independence for all.

Through her advocacy, Sunita emphasises the importance of inclusion, urging society to “include everyone – so that everyone can enjoy.” She believes that individuals with disabilities deserve the opportunity to pursue their goals and passions, living life to the fullest and leading a life of purpose. Her journey stands as a testament to resilience and determination, proving that one’s life purpose can lead to transformative change for themselves and others.

In her closing remarks, Sunita Sancheti urged the audience to embrace life to the fullest and lead with purpose. Her powerful message resonated with everyone present, leaving them with a renewed sense of responsibility to create a more inclusive and accessible world. Sunita serves as a powerful reminder that every individual has the potential to make a difference and lead with purpose, driving positive transformation within themselves and the world around them.

Unveiling the Wild: Soham Wagh’s Journey into the Realm of Wildlife and Purposeful Leadership

At the ATLAS SkillTech University TEDx event, the audience was taken on a captivating journey into the mesmerising world of wildlife through the eyes of Soham Wagh, a wildlife enthusiast and photographer. Soham’s experiences with tigers and other creatures of the wild served as a profound analogy for leading a life with purpose.

Through riveting anecdotes and captivating photographs, Soham shared the mysteries of the animal kingdom, unveiling the intricacies of tiger behavior, territories, mating and the essence of life. He eloquently drew parallels between the animal world and the human experience, underlining the significance of purpose in shaping one’s life.

One poignant story shared by Soham Wagh shed light on the struggles of a tiger mother, who endures immense challenges to raise her cubs. He recounted a unique and heart-warming tale from Sanjay Dubri National Park, where orphaned tiger cubs were lovingly raised by their aunt alongside her own cubs. This heartening account served as a testament to the power of compassion and the unbreakable bonds in the animal kingdom.

Soham reflected on the profound influence of childhood experiences, sharing how a book titled “Our Magnificent Wildlife,” gifted to him by his grandfather, had a lifelong impact on him. This gift ignited a passion in him to explore and visit as many jungles as possible, deepening his connection with nature and wildlife.

Amidst the awe-inspiring tales, Soham also expressed genuine concern for the challenges faced in protecting wildlife, such as habitat destruction and poaching. He highlighted the fact that India harbours 70% of the wild tiger population today, emphasising the responsibility the nation bears in preserving these magnificent creatures.

“If you want to be a great leader, your story can’t only be about yourself. You will have to act against convention for the betterment of the world.”
– Soham Wagh

Soham’s words of wisdom underscored the essence of purposeful leadership, where a leader’s actions transcend personal goals and encompass a broader commitment to creating a positive impact on the world. His enthralling session left the audience with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of wildlife and the vital lessons it imparts. The parallels drawn between the animal world and human existence served as a reminder of the importance of leading a life with purpose, empathy, and a commitment to the greater good.

Saanvi Jamalpur: A Young Prodigy’s Journey of Brilliance and the Power of Reading

At the ATLAS SkillTech University TEDx event, the stage was graced by an extraordinary young talent, a 14-year old, Saanvi Jamalpur, who unveiled the enchanting world of books and the boundless knowledge they hold. Her journey as a voracious reader and her extraordinary achievements in reciting the Bhagavad Gita and Narayana Upanishad left the audience in awe.

Saanvi shared that her love for reading began at a tender age of 2.5 years. Books became her loyal friends, shaping her worldview and laying the foundation for her remarkable journey. She passionately conveyed that reading is an essential practice for good leaders, as it imparts timeless wisdom and instills qualities such as patience and perseverance.

During the lockdown, when her usual source of books came to a halt, Saanvi’s quest for knowledge led her to the Bhagavad Gita. She quickly mastered the first chapter. With guidance and dedication, Saanvi learned all 700 shlokas of the Bhagavad Gita and earned accolades and awards, including a gold medal and the Gita Gyana Jyothi title.

Saanvi’s accomplishments extended beyond the Bhagavad Gita as she set a world record by reciting the Narayana Upanishad in an astonishing 2 minutes and 15 seconds, cementing her status as a child prodigy.

Despite her tender age, Saanvi is incredibly self-disciplined. She aspires to become a space scientist. Beyond her passion for reading and academics, she excels in music, writing, drawing and poetry. Saanvi’s brilliant photographic memory and her consistent drive to learn have earned her numerous laurels in various fields.

During her session, Saanvi emphasised that reading has been her gateway to understanding life, dealing with failures and embracing timeless wisdom. She described reading as a soul-nourishing endeavour that opens new horizons of knowledge and insight.

To encourage others to cultivate a reading habit, Saanvi shared some valuable tips:

• Get started and stay motivated.
• Read for just 10 minutes daily, and soon you’ll find yourself immersed in the magic of books.
• Explore a variety of books to widen your understanding and interests.

As the audience soaked in Saanvi’s insights, they left with a renewed appreciation for the power of reading and the profound impact it can have on one’s life. Saanvi’s journey resonates deeply, serving as a reminder that anyone, regardless of age, can achieve greatness through curiosity, dedication, unquenchable thirst for knowledge and passion.

Rediscovering Art and Passion: Shipra Malhotra’s Journey of Calligraphy

At the ATLAS SkillTech University TEDx event, the audience was spellbound by the inspiring journey of Shipra Malhotra, a passionate calligraphy artist who revived the ancient art of beautiful writing. Shipra’s story of resilience, determination and unwavering passion left a profound impact on all who listened.

Her journey began as a homemaker, later becoming a divorcee and a single mom with a dream of independence. Shipra’s unwavering determination led her to seize an opportunity at her children’s school to teach calligraphy. Despite facing three significant challenges – lack of textbooks, a structured curriculum and awareness about calligraphy – Shipra fearlessly combined the art of calligraphy with education. She painstakingly wrote books that brought calligraphy the recognition it deserved in the education system.

Her first self-help book, “Calligraphy Made Easy,” faced rejection from 35+ publishers. But Shipra refused to give up and finally published the book, which later became an Amazon bestseller and left a lasting mark in Mumbai’s leading schools. Not only did she revive the art of calligraphy, but she also created job opportunities for homemakers, adding to the cultural heritage of the nation.

Shipra’s passion for calligraphy transcended beyond artistic expression. She used the art form to make a difference in the lives of special children, providing them with a creative outlet to channel their energy. She launched a book specially designed for these children, unlocking untapped potential and enriching lives for generations to come.

“Growth happens only when we step out of our comfort zone”

– Shipra Malhotra

The COVID-19 pandemic became an opportunity for Shipra to adapt and evolve. She connected individuals worldwide through online sessions, breaking physical boundaries and taking calligraphy to an international level through competitions and exhibitions.

With six published books, numerous workshops conducted across Indian schools, and state and national level awards under her belt, Shipra’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of calligraphy and the art form’s potential to impact lives.

Beyond her passion for calligraphy, Shipra is a versatile individual with a diverse range of talents. She serves on the board of directors of Sakuma Exports, is a skilled singer from Kirana Gharana and a talented musician and guitarist.

In her pursuit of spreading the beauty of calligraphy, Shipra envisions taking this art form to every city and village in the country. Her journey from struggles to growth showcases the power of finding one’s true passion through adversity.

Breaking Barriers: Major Vandana Sharma’s Journey of Purpose and Empowerment

Major Vandana Sharma, a remarkable and multi-talented Indian woman, embodies the spirit of courage, determination and breaking barriers in both military and civilian life. At the ATLAS SkillTech University TEDx event, she shared her inspiring journey, highlighting the significance of purpose, self-awareness, and empowerment.

Raised in a defence family, Vandana’s childhood was filled with admiration for uniforms, fighter aircraft, and defence personnel. Her dream of wearing a real uniform was fulfilled when she joined the Indian Army as a Major, representing women in the armed forces and challenging societal norms.

Major Vandana Sharma’s insights were both thought-provoking and motivational:

• Finding Purpose: Vandana emphasised the importance of daily self-reflection and questioning one’s actions to find purpose. She shared how her love for the uniform became her driving force, leading her to make significant contributions during the Kargil War.
• Empowerment and Demanding What You Want: Major Sharma’s journey from the Army to the corporate sector taught her the value of empowerment and self-belief. She encouraged the audience to identify their strengths, passions and purpose, and then align themselves with organisations that resonate with their values.
• Challenging Gender Stereotypes: Representing women in the armed forces, Vandana faced societal pressures and questioned the hierarchy, proving that capability knows no gender boundaries. Her experiences in the Kargil War taught her the true value of life and shaped her into a more composed and resilient person.

Beyond her illustrious career, Vandana Sharma has been actively involved in women’s empowerment initiatives and mentorship programs. She strives to create platforms where women’s voices are heard and encourages financial independence for women, especially during career milestones and breaks.

“Identify your own strength, find your purpose and believe in it”
– Vandana Sharma

Major Vandana Sharma envisions an equal world where gender plays no role in determining success, be it in business, science, arts or government. She hopes to inspire the youth of India to break barriers and embrace their purpose.

Her insightful talk left a lasting impact on the audience, inspiring them to reflect on their own life’s purpose and find the strength to pursue their dreams.

Embracing Inclusion: Unveiling the Power of Exclusion – Insights from Sadashiv Nayak

At the ATLAS SkillTech University TEDx event, Sadashiv Nayak, a retail industry veteran, enlightened the audience with his thought-provoking insights on the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion. Through compelling examples, he showcased how exclusion, when used strategically, can lead to meaningful inclusion, fostering unity and acceptance in our society.

Nayak began by acknowledging the human tendency to react negatively at first, leading to collective judgments of others. However, he emphasised that these affinities towards exclusion can ironically bring people together, seeking assurance through common judgments.

He then delved into the practical aspects of inclusion, illustrating how exclusion can play a pivotal role in driving positive change:

• Including Footprints, Excluding Footwear: Nayak shared an example of establishing modern trade in small towns like Nashik. By excluding judgments about footwear, the supermarket welcomed footfall, encouraging consumption and creating an inclusive environment where appearances do not hinder entry.
• Including the Dare, Excluding the Care: To enhance shopping experiences, a mall celebrated ‘Young Elders Day’ where senior citizens were encouraged to participate in contests and a fashion show, earning lucrative discounts. This event excluded judgments about age and money, focusing instead on the dare of enjoying life.
• Including the Pizza Box, Excluding the Size of the Pizza Slice: Nayak highlighted how offering pizza boxes without judgment about the size of the slice encourages people to enjoy the indulgence of the entire pizza.
• Including the Playbook, Excluding the Paycheck: By excluding financial motivations and focusing on the playbook, organizations can foster a more inclusive and performance-driven work environment.
• Including the Affinity, Excluding the Sympathy: Nayak praised the ‘Quiet Hour of a Mall,’ where a special hour every Tuesday is dedicated to autistic kids, including their specific needs while excluding sympathy and any judgment about their differences.

The retail industry has played a vital role in fostering inclusion by creating 30,000 jobs over the past decade, particularly for individuals fresh out of 10th and 12th grade. This inclusive approach allows young talents to find opportunities and grow within the sector, promoting diversity and equality.

Sadashiv Nayak’s insights shed light on the profound impact of embracing exclusion in the pursuit of meaningful inclusion. The examples he shared demonstrated that by eliminating judgments and preconceptions, we can create environments where everyone feels welcome and valued for their unique contributions. As the audience reflected on Nayak’s wisdom, they were inspired to seek innovative ways to create inclusive environments that celebrate individuality, promote unity, and drive positive change for a better future.

From a Child Star to an Actor with Purpose: Insights from Darsheel Safary

At the ATLAS SkillTech University TEDx event, Darsheel Safary, the acclaimed actor known for his unforgettable role in “Taare Zameen Par,” shared his journey of accidental stardom and finding his true purpose as an actor. His insightful reflections left the audience captivated, offering valuable life lessons for personal growth and self-discovery.

Darsheel began by humbly acknowledging that his career-defining role in “Taare Zameen Par” was not a result of meticulous planning or effort on his part. The opportunity serendipitously landed in his lap, setting him on an unexpected path to stardom. He reflected on his childhood as a brat, and how his parents channelled his energy towards dance, a decision that would inadvertently lead to his encounter with Aamir Khan.

He vividly recounted the story of how Aamir Khan spotted him during one of his dance performances, leading to auditions and his eventual selection for the movie. Despite early success, Darsheel chose to explore his passion with introspection, taking a break from acting to determine whether his drive was fuelled by fame and money or a genuine inner passion for the craft.

“Be true to yourself and make decisions that align with your passion and purpose”
– Darsheel Safary

Darsheel’s epiphany came during a powerful theatre performance when his co-actor delivered a forceful slap. The audience’s reaction to his raw and authentic response unveiled his deep connection to acting, convincing him that it was the path he wanted to pursue wholeheartedly.

Throughout his talk, Darsheel emphasised the importance of identity and being true to oneself. He urged the audience to ask the right questions at different points in their lives and to make decisions that align with their passion and purpose. Sharing thoughts and feelings with family and friends, he stressed, can provide valuable support and guidance.

Drawing from his years of experience in the industry, Darsheel encouraged aspiring actors and professionals to be passionate, determined and committed to constant learning. He highlighted the significance of understanding every aspect of one’s profession, fostering a holistic understanding of the craft.

Darsheel Safary’s journey from a child star to an actor with purpose resonated deeply with the audience, encouraging them to reflect on their own passions and make conscious decisions aligned with their inner calling.

ATLAS SkillTech University’s TEDx event showcased inspiring individuals whose passion and purpose exemplify the university’s values of nurturing leaders who are driven to make a positive difference in the world. As the audience absorbed all the insights, they left with a renewed sense of responsibility to protect and cherish the delicate balance of nature while seeking greater purpose in their own lives and leadership journeys. The event served as a powerful reminder that leadership with a purpose can transcend boundaries and inspire greatness. ATLAS SkillTech University continues to pave the way for shaping the leaders of tomorrow, nurturing not only skillful professionals but also compassionate human beings who are committed to creating a better world.

Some unforgettable moments..