Erbil, December 18, 2024
Tishk International University made history today by hosting its first TEDx Tishk International University on 18 December, 2025, bringing together distinguished academics, professionals, students, and guests for a day of transformative ideas spanning health, technology, artificial intelligence, innovation, and human potential.
The program commenced with registration and welcoming, followed by the opening ceremony, national anthems, and a promotional video highlighting the achievements of Tishk International University and TEDx. A warm welcome address was delivered by Assistant Professor Dr. Idris Hadi, Head of the Board of Trustees, who emphasized the university’s commitment to innovation, creativity, and academic excellence. He further said “Our students saw an opportunity and seized it. Today proves what happens when we empower young minds to think big.” The event organizing chair, Assistant Professor Dr. Abdulsamad Salahuddin, also shared insights into the vision and mission behind organizing TEDx at TIU.
The first session talks began with Dr. Abdulsalam Medeni, a civic activist of Kurdistan Region, who inspired audiences with “Xot ba (Be Yourself)“—a powerful call for authenticity and civic engagement that reminded everyone genuine self-expression drives meaningful change and social progress. Dr. Shaween Ziyad Jamil Al-Talabany, Head of Research Board at Erbil Cardiac Center, followed with “A Metronome of the Soul: The Heart’s Response to Musical Tempo,” revealing the surprising connection between musical rhythm and cardiovascular response—where science meets art.
After a coffee break, Zheen Qasim, a TIU student, shared a unique perspective on the experience of obtaining the TEDx license, offering inspiration to fellow students about leadership and initiative.
The second session included Dr. Azad Najjar, who captivated audiences with “The Story of the Artificial Heart,” taking attendees inside the fascinating world of medical innovation and life-saving technology development in the region. This was followed by Dr. Roaa Ahmed, psychotherapist, who explored emotional wellness in her powerful presentation “When Love is Not Alive,” offering fresh perspectives on mental health, healing, and human connection.
Mr. Yehya Lezgin, the cofounder and CEO of Ovanya—Iraq’s first AI company—challenged audiences to reimagine possibilities with his talk on artificial intelligence, demonstrating how technology can meet local needs and drive digital transformation and sustainable innovation.
In the afternoon sessions, Dr. Shajwan Salar presented “Small and Simple Nudges with Big Positive Health Changes: Insights from Erbil, Iraq,” emphasizing practical public health interventions and community well-being. The event concluded with an inspiring talk by Mr. Harmand Ali Hama, titled “The Silent Language of Your Cells: How Lifestyle Can Talk to Your Genes,” highlighting the relationship between lifestyle choices and genetic expression.
The program concluded with a vote of thanks, marking the successful completion of a memorable TEDx event that reflected Tishk International University’s dedication to quality education, academic leadership, innovation, and global engagement. Certificates were presented to the organizers, sponsors and volunteers in recognition of their outstanding contributions to making this transformative event possible.
