At 16, Albert Einstein wondered: What would happen if we could catch up with the speed of light? This seemingly naive question played a key role in the development of the theory of special relativity.

In the 2000s, when most researchers in the field of computer vision focused only on refining their models, Fei-Fei Li, who was then a PhD student, posed a radical question: Can we make AI learn to understand the world, much as a child does, by recognising objects? This paradigm-shifting approach led to the creation of ImageNet and propelled the development of deep learning, and Fei-Fei Li later became a world-renowned professor of computer science at Stanford University.

When studying poverty, Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo, two MIT professors, moved beyond grand theories. They asked simple, but pointed questions such as "Why do impoverished families prioritise buying televisions?" Their micro-level perspective pioneered groundbreaking methods in experimental economics, and they later received the Nobel Prize in Economics in 2019, for their approach to alleviate global poverty.  

Architect Zaha Hadid defied traditions with a simple challenge: Why must buildings always be rectilinear? Her fluid designs redefined humanity's perceptions of space.

All these breakthroughs that transformed fields began with daring questions that broke with conventions. When young people start asking questions, the future gets a new algorithm!

In today's rapidly-changing world, we more than ever need the courage to ask questions. Complex issues, such as climate change, AI ethics, and cultural identity, all demand fresh perspectives from a new generation. That's why TEDxYouth@YCYWShanghai chose "DARE TO ASK" for its 2025 theme.

YCYW students will share their incisive observations and unique insights about technology, education, art, and more.

Collaborative music and dance performances by students and teachers

Student-curated displays of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations

Student-led workshops, such as demonstrations of robots, medical exhibitions, and other creative activities