Theme: SOMETHINK BIG

An independently organised TED-like event organised at Thrissur, India. With TEDxPunkunnam, we aim to create a dynamic and inclusive environment where attendees can immerse themselves in a half-day of thought-provoking talks, stimulating discussions, and networking opportunities. We aim to highlight Thrissur's unique blend of tradition and modernity, showcasing local innovations, cultural heritage, and pressing issues that resonate locally and globally.

From groundbreaking scientific research and innovative technological solutions to compelling personal stories and artistic expressions, each talk will centre around a powerful idea worth spreading. We prioritise speakers from the local community who bring fresh perspectives and untold stories, providing a platform for often unheard voices.

HiLite Mall Thrissur
Kuttanellur Bypass Bridge, Service Rd
Hill Gardens Housing Colony
Thrissur, Kerala, 680014
India

Brian Mac Mahon

Venture Capitalist

Brian Mac Mahon is a serial entrepreneur as well as the most active startup investor in Southern California who has owned companies in over 35 countries. He specializes in helping entrepreneurs to become more successful in their businesses by using all the tools available to him as owner of a large peer to peer peak performance academy. Brian is committed to investing in founders from all backgrounds and industries based on the merit of the execution of their value proposition only. In 2018 & 2019, he brought 400 companies through his startup accelerator program and made a total of 79 investments.

Dr. Sudarshan Tamang

Youth Icon

Dr. Tamang’s contributions extend to social initiatives. He has been recognized as a youth icon by the Election Commission of India and served as a race ambassador for several marathons. He is the Founder of Project Life, through which he promotes healthy lifestyles and engages in community support, notably aiding the Teesta Flash Flood victims in 2023. He is also a notable long-distance runner, having won the 10 km Darjeeling Police Marathon in 2022 and the 10 km Tata Steel Kolkata Marathon in 2023. He placed 2nd in the Kalimpong Freedom Run 2023 and the Kolkata Half Marathon 2021. His endurance is further evidenced by his inclusion in the India Book of Records for a 185 km run from Gangtok to Gurudongmar, completed over five days at an elevation of 17,800 feet. He also completed the challenging K2G run from Kolkata to Gangtok.

Elavarasi Jayakanth

Women Entrepreneur

From humble beginnings as the daughter of street vendor, she faced numerous hardships, including financial struggles and business setbacks. Despite dropping out of school early, she fought against the odds to continue her education and later ventured into the family trade. A series of burglaries nearly shattered her dreams, but she refused to give up. She rebuilt her business from scratch, launching Aswathy Hot Chips

Nihal Sarin

Chess Grandmaster

Nihal is an Indian chess grandmaster and chess prodigy. In 2018, he passed the Elo rating of 2600 at 14 years old, which at the time made him the third youngest player in history to do so. As a junior player, Nihal was the World Under-10 champion in 2014 and placed second in the 2015 World Under-12 championship.

Sheeba Ameer

Social Activist

Sheeba Ameer is the founder of Solace, a pioneering support system for children with long-term illnesses. Her journey began with the seven-year battle to care for her daughter diagnosed with leukemia—a deeply personal experience that led her to build what she wished existed: a community of care. Solace now supports hundreds of families, offering medical, emotional, and financial aid. Recognized nationally, Sheeba has received the CNN Real Hero Award, Vanitha Woman of the Year, and the Ramankutty Achan Award for her social impact. With unshakable empathy and resolve, Sheeba Ameer turned personal grief into a movement of healing and hope for countless others.