Theme: AWAKEN 2025

The future isn’t just arriving—it’s waiting for us to wake up. "Awaken 2025" is more than a theme; it’s a call to action. As we step into a new era, this TEDx event challenges us to awaken new ideas, possibilities, and ways of being. It’s about stirring dormant dreams, breaking through societal inertia, and embracing change at both personal and collective levels.

Join us for a day of inspiring talks that challenge assumptions, reframe perspectives, and awaken the creative power within each of us to shape the world we wish to see. The time to wake up is now—2025 is calling. Will you answer?

Great Wolf Lodge
2500 Daniels St
Manteca, California, 95337
United States

Arun Mohan

Senior executives, Oracle

Arun Mohan is a senior executive with over 20 years of experience reimagining business through AI-driven technologies, cloud innovations, and SaaS platforms. At Oracle, he leads large-scale AI integrations within Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, delivering measurable value. His collaborative leadership fosters innovation and empowers teams. In his TEDx talk, Arun reveals how AI propels growth, revolutionizes experiences, and drives long-term success.

Ganesh Betageri

Performer

Shri Ganesh Betageri of Naad Performing Arts, born into a distinguished lineage of musicians from Dharwad, Karnataka, embarked on his journey in Hindustani Classical music within the esteemed Kirana Gharana tradition. A rare talent proficient in both vocal and percussion, he brings a unique dimension to the musical landscape. Trained under the guidance of his aunt, Dr. Sulabha Datta Neeralgi—a direct disciple of Padma Vibhushan Dr. Gangubai Hangal and Dr. Kaivalya Kumar Gurav—he continues his pursuit of excellence under the mentorship of Dr. Vijay Kumar Patil. As the founder of Naad Performing Arts, Ganesh is dedicated to uniting artists across genres and cultures, and teaching Indian classical music in a scientific way fostering a global appreciation for classical music. With his exceptional versatility and unwavering dedication, he stands poised to make a lasting impact on the world of Indian classical music.

Gary Singh

Mayor, City of Manteca and real estate agent

Gary Singh, Mayor of Manteca since November 2022, served on the City Council for six years and held two terms as Vice Mayor. A lifelong resident, he brings practical insights from decades as a small business owner and Broker/Realtor. He prioritizes public safety, job creation, and fiscal sustainability. In his TEDx talk, he’ll share strategies for building resilient, forward-thinking communities

Gina L. Osborn

Retired FBI assistant special agent in charge, former chief of safety & security for LA metro, and a recognized expert in crisis management.

Chasing Cold War spies, foiling terrorist attacks, and leading the FBI’s most significant cyber investigations were part of work , during her 28-year law enforcement career. A consummate storyteller and transformational keynote speaker, she now inspires audiences worldwide with lessons in leadership, resilience, and fearless decision-making. As the host of the Making Maverick Moves Podcast, Gina spotlights trailblazers who defy the odds and rewrite the rules to achieve success.

Sandeep Gandhi

Founding Partner, Drishti Conscious Investing Partners

Sandeep Gandhi , With 15+ years in institutional finance, blends investment expertise with mindfulness. A CFA charterholder trained in Kriya Yoga and Vedic Astrology, he champions Conscious Investing—aligning profit with purpose. At TEDx, he’ll reveal how ethical capital allocation and awareness can reshape finance for a more sustainable, impactful future.

Shikha Kumar

Performer

She holds a Master in Social Work degree and has a long standing passion for Bolly-dance, as well as other folk dance too. Mrs. Kumar has 25+ years experience in teaching and performing competitively. This, together with her 16+ years expertise in human behavior, trauma-informed work, and solution-focused guidance, brings a learning experience where students feel inspired to express while honing their art skills/ overall confidence. The instruction style avoids punitive, punishing words. Attention will not be sought by begging nor demands. Shikha is trained in the nurtured-heart approach, and other positive parenting/leadership which translate into healthy facilitation of dance teaching, fostering openness and camaraderie. Mrs. Kumar has an art profile from High School and San Jose State University where she has been recognized for her creative skill and awarded a scholarship through an arts program. She also has a knack for costume design.

Sujeeth Punnam

Interventional cardiologist

Dr. Sujeeth R. Punnam, MD, FACC, is an award-winning interventional cardiologist with over 20 years’ experience. He advises US startups on remote patient monitoring and champions global efforts to prevent sudden cardiac death. By merging clinical expertise with technology-driven cardiac care, Dr. Punnam sparks transformative impact. In his TEDx talk, he’ll share pioneering strategies for advancing cardiovascular health worldwide.

Tracy Abbey Lake

Artist & Owner of The Cats Whiskers Art Studio

Born in South Africa immigrated to the USA in 2001 and becoming a citizen in 2024, traveled widely and always loved and created art since a young girl, Tracy is the owner of The Cats Whiskers ArtStudio Virtual and In Person Mobile Art Studio Paint Parties and More. A nature based artist creating her unique Visionary Bespoke Fine Art, drawing from her Spiritual, Shamanic, and reiki teachings and practices, infusing them into her Artwork. Tracy is an International Best Seller. Guest Speaker. Curator of Women’s Spiritual Creative Retreats. Founder and guide of Magical Painting Circle Women's online creative gatherings. Homesteader and Medicinal Self Sustainability Gardening Consultant.

Veeksha Sudireddy

Student, Sierra High School

Veeksha Sudireddy, a junior at Sierra High School is the secretary of Med Life and a commissioner in leadership. She likes to learn her favorite songs in guitar and bake for the family. She represents the "Youth Dreams " category of our TEDxManteca Initiative and her talk will provide the peek into the GenZ thought process about future.