If you gave a 14-year-old a microphone, what would they say? If you give a 14-year-old a microphone, you realize how articulate, intelligent, kind, and creative they really are. These kids are amazing.

Vilnius Ažuolyas progimnaisum organized a TEDx event. The featured speakers were Lithuanian eight-graders. Sixteen kids from 8 different schools in Vilnius rose to the challenge. They were tasked with presenting a TED talk about a topic of their choice. In English. To an audience of peers.

Let’s unpack that. Stage fright is the number one fear of people today; the fear of public speaking brings most people to their knees. These pupils walked to the microphone with confidence. Although they were nervous, they performed with courage. Secondly, as Lithuanians, English is their second or third language; confirming that multilingualism is alive and well in Lithuania! Third, teenagers are a tough audience for anyone; speaking about personal convictions to peers is a monumental task.

What were their topics? I am glad you asked. Pupils could choose any topic. They perfected the topic with the help of their English teachers.

Mangirdas opened the event with a speech entitled “The role of Christianity in the life of a modern teenager.”

With a scientific bent, Aistis spoke about electromagnetic radiation of the stars.

Titas could be the next Vilnius mayor with his brilliantly presented speech on transportation and traffic.

Simonas integrated history and current politics in his presentation titled “Why is it important to talk about war?”

Patricia bravely gave advice on how teachers can become better teachers. And yes, there were teachers in the audience.

Bright pupils presented topics on getting enough exercise, making healthy food choices, withdrawing from doomscrolling, phone addictions.

In the end, using Mentimeter, the audience favorite was Dite’s controversial speech on the legalization of abortions.

I was humbled to give the first TEDx talk of the morning. I challenged the pupils to throw away negative stereotypes and try a little kindness.

I just met the most amazing, well-behaved, thoughtful, polite and articulate 14-year-olds that you can imagine! I enjoyed the morning tremendously with these delightful young people.

Author: Robin Gingerich, Ph.D., MA TESOL Program Director at LCC International University.