Theme: Pioneering the future

At TEDxUnity Grammar Youth, we are bringing together bold thinkers, innovative minds, and passionate changemakers to explore the theme Pioneering the Future. In a rapidly evolving world, the future belongs to those who dare to imagine, create, and lead with vision and purpose.

This event will feature a curated lineup of speakers — from trailblazing entrepreneurs and forward-thinking scientists to creative artists and social innovators — all sharing ideas that have the power to reshape industries, communities, and mindsets.
Through powerful talks, groundbreaking ideas, and transformative conversations, we will uncover how innovation, resilience, and bold action can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.

Join us for an inspiring day where ideas spark action, and together, we become pioneers of the future.

Unity Grammar, Mariam Room
Level 3 Astrolab
70 Fourth Avenue
Austral, New South Wales, 2179
Australia

Fatima Payman

Senator

Senator Fatima Payman is a fearless advocate and a strong voice for Western Australia in the Federal Parliament. Raised in Perth’s northern suburbs, she is the proud daughter of an Afghan refugee whose hard work and perseverance shaped her values of integrity, resilience, and dedication to community service. In 2022, Fatima made history as the first hijab wearing Senator and the fifth youngest in Australia’s history. Since then, she has built a reputation for bold and unapologetic advocacy - standing up for workers, families, and communities who have been ignored by the political establishment for too long. Committed to transparency, justice, and real accountability, Fatima recently launched her own political party, Australia’s Voice, to give everyday Australians a genuine alternative to the major party duopoly. She continues to champion the issues that matter most - fair wages, affordable housing, cost-of-living relief, and ensuring that government works for the people.

Massilia Aili

Journalist

Channel 9 reporter

Moodi Dennaoui

Health and nutrition expert

Known within the industry as the 'Diet Doctor', Moodi has extensive professional experience, and an unconventional approach to nutrition, which has earned him a reputable following across the globe. Whilst still working with elite athletes and entertainers, Moodi has also spent several years as a Health Executive Australia wide for leading allied health services companies. This involves working, training and educating in the field of Exercise Physiology and Nutrition. Dealing with dozens of victims of Cancer, Diabetes, Heart disease, Metabolic Syndrome as well as an array of patients with moderate to severe injuries on a daily basis is the most rewarding experience to date. Moodi is currently in the process of going beyond a brick and mortar service to going online to expand his influence in the Health and Wellness sector.

Samir Mahmoud

Academic

Dr. Samir Mahmoud is currently Academic Director of Usul Academy . He is also Lecturer on the Diploma in Islamic Psychology at the Cambridge Muslim College. Recently he was Assistant Professor at the Lebanese American University. He has a BA (Hons) in Anthropology & Politics with a focus on multicultural theory and comparative religion, and an MA in Architectural History, Theory & Urban Design with a focus on the traditional townscape from the University of New South Wales, Sydney Australia. He also holds an MPhil in Theology & Religious Studies with a focus on comparative philosophy and aesthetics. He completed a PhD in Islamic Studies from the University of Cambridge.

Soumaya Najjarin

Policy and project management professional

Soumaya Najjarin is a policy and project management professional with over 8 years of experience in government and a decade of community service. Currently pursuing postgraduate studies in law, she brings a unique blend of governance expertise and grassroots advocacy to her work. As the Founding Director of New Beginnings Aus, Australia’s first Islamic divorce recovery organisation, she has pioneered transformative programs that support women, men, and families in navigating the emotional and social challenges of divorce. Her TEDx talk explores the often overlooked discrimination faced by individuals and families due to their divorce status, highlighting the urgent need for more compassionate, inclusive community. Her work is rooted in impact, innovation, and a dedication to meaningful change. Driven by her commitment to systemic change, Soumaya combines policy knowledge with lived experience to advocate for dignity, belonging, and fairness for all regardless of marital status.