From Invisible to Empowered: Teen Speaker Aaliyah Singh Ghotra Breaks Silence on Bullying in Viral TEDx Talk

Aaliyah Singh Ghotra, a 15-year-old youth speaker and performer, is making waves with her moving TEDx talk, "Powerful Lessons from a Bullied Teen." In just under 13 minutes, Aaliyah takes viewers on a gripping journey from childhood exclusion to artistic self-liberation, delivering a bold call to action around teen mental health, empathy, and the power of self-expression.

Her story begins with a childhood memory: left alone in a closet during a game of hide-and-seek. That moment became a metaphor for the covert bullying, isolation, and anxiety she endured for years. But Aaliyah didn't stay hidden. Through acting, dance, and performance, she transformed her pain into purpose and now encourages others to do the same.

"Theater and dance became the words I was too afraid to say," she shares. "At age 11, I finally felt visible."

The TEDx talk resonates not just for its raw honesty but for its relevance. According to the UNESCO Institute of Statistics, one-third of youth worldwide are bullied. U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy warns that 95% of teens use social media to hide, while it contributes to a growing epidemic of low self-worth. Aaliyah's talk puts a human face to these statistics, offering insight not only into the impact of bullying but also into tools for healing.

What sets Aaliyah apart is her empathy, even for those who bullied her. "They are hurting too," she says. "I had to learn to forgive without abandoning myself."

Educators, therapists, and youth organizations are taking note. Her message encourages schools to incorporate emotional well-being into the curriculum and for families to create open spaces for expression at home. It also calls on teens to reclaim their power through art, sport, or any outlet that helps them feel seen.

The full TEDx talk can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-ryQewOLrc

Aaliyah Singh Ghotra
Empower Expression
Seattle, Washington,
United States

Email: info@aaliyahghotra.com
Phone: +1 (952) 484-0486
Website: www.aaliyahghotra.com

Empower Expression is a youth-led initiative founded by Aaliyah Singh Ghotra to advocate for emotional wellness, creative self-expression, and visibility for teens affected by bullying. Through storytelling, performance, and public speaking, Empower Expression encourages young people to transform personal pain into purpose and to build confidence by embracing their authentic voices. The initiative partners with schools, community groups, and mental health advocates to create safe spaces for youth to be heard, understood, and empowered.

This release was published on openPR.