How to Make People Happy? | Timo Harakka | TEDxCaledonian Intl School Youth
In “How to Make People Happy,” Timo Harakka draws from his career as a Finnish politician and public servant to argue that happiness isn’t just a personal pursuit, but a shared, societal mission. He emphasizes the role of strong institutions—transparent governance, reliable welfare systems, and equitable public services—in removing sources of unhappiness. At the same time, he highlights how individual agency, community bonds, and purpose contribute to well‐being. The talk suggests a balance: it’s not enough to have policies that function; a society also needs culture, connection, and opportunities for meaningful participation for people to truly flourish.If you like, I can pull together key takeaways or quotes from the talk (if available) to flesh this out further. Timo Harakka is a Finnish Member of Parliament and a prominent figure in national and European policymaking. He served as Finland’s Minister of Transport and Communications from 2019 to 2023, where he played a key role in advancing digital infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and the transition to carbon-neutral transport.With a background in journalism and a strong voice for innovation, Mr. Harakka has championed digital transformation, 5G development, and ethical AI governance across Europe. He has also been a strong advocate for climate action, pushing for smart, green transport solutions and resilient communication networks.Combining deep political experience with a passion for future-oriented policy, Mr. Harakka brings insight into how societies can embrace technological change while safeguarding democratic values. He continues to serve actively in Parliament, shaping legislation on digitalization, labor, and the environment. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
More from TED
- 14:56LEARN, HOW TO LEARN | Dr.Faisal Bari | TEDxCrescent Model School YouthThe speaker delves deep into the intricacies of true learning in an AI-infused world. A Rhodes scholar, economist and educationist. Associate Professor at LUMS and a former professor at YALE. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 9:06Colors of Courage: How Art Helps Us Heal | Karinka Ngabito | TEDxAvicenna Cinere SchoolWhat if real strength isn’t about holding on, but learning how to let go? In this deeply personal and emotional talk, Karinka Ngabito explores how art and breathwork can transform loss into healing. Drawing from her own journey after losing her husband and mother within the same year, she reveals that grief is not something to overcome but something to honor.Through colors, lines, and gentle movements, she invites us to reconnect with our inner strength and discover the quiet heroism that lives in all of us. This talk is both tender and transformative a reminder that art doesn’t erase pain, but helps us hold it with love. Karinka Ngabito is the founder of a mental health service in Indonesia. She loves art and uses it as a way to express her life journey. Her experience with grief both personally and through helping clients has led her to find new meaning in life. Karinka will share how to find strength in silence through art. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 9:58Chords of Change: A Life Rewritten in Lyrics | Sheikh Ishtiaque | TEDxMUBC YouthEvery melody carries a memory — and for Sheikh Ishtiaque, those memories became the map of his life. From growing up in the vibrant city of Chittagong to becoming the lead vocalist of the legendary rock band Shironamhin, his story is one of transformation through sound.As a singer, songwriter, and performer, Ishtiaque has spent years translating emotions into lyrics that speak to millions. Songs like Jaat Gelo and Cholo Jai didn’t just entertain — they told stories of loss, love, rebellion, and hope. Behind each note lies a moment of courage, a chapter of self-discovery, and a glimpse into how art can rewrite a person’s destiny.But his journey wasn’t linear. Before the spotlight, there were days of uncertainty, introspection, and countless rewrites — not just of his songs, but of himself. Through every verse and chorus, Ishtiaque learned that music isn’t just performance; it’s therapy, reflection, and rebellion rolled into one.In his TEDx talk, Sheikh Ishtiaque explores how the power of music can turn chaos into clarity, and how creativity becomes the bridge between who we are and who we’re meant to be. His story reminds us that change doesn’t always begin with a plan — sometimes, it begins with a chord. He was just ten when his voice first echoed through the national airwaves on Bangladesh Television. But soon after, the music faded. Life took over. Ishtiaque didn’t just grow as a musician he evolved as a storyteller. He learned from mentors, jammed with seasoned players,and eventually stood alongside legends. His cover of Khachar Bhitor Ochin Pakhi" with BassBaba Sumon became an anthem. But the true turning point came in 2016, when his childhood idol invited him to sing for Aurthohin’s 7th album. Today, Sheikh Ishtiaque is the lead vocalist of Shironamhin, one of the most iconic bands in the history of Bangladeshi rock. Yet beneath the spotlight lies a story that isn’t just about music — it's about pausing, rediscovering, and rising again with even greater clarity. At TEDxYouth@Monipur High School and College 2025, Ishtiaque unpacks that quiet revolution The one that starts when you lose your way. The one that begins inside your mind The one that demands you unlearn before you rise. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 9:34Spacecraft Earth | Aarav Kamble | TEDxSolitaireGlobalSchoolsAttapurDemonstrates how strategies designed for building sustainable habitats in space can be applied in real world. Driven by curiosity and a love for problem solving, enjoy exploring new ideas. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 19:27The Power of Telling Stories Through Many Roles | Aiman Mukhtiar | TEDxGEA YouthActor and producer Aiman Mukhtiar talks about the journey of storytelling across architecture, acting, and filmmaking and what it taught her about finding her voice. Aiman Mukhtiar studied Architecture before training in Method Acting at Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, New York. She has acted in films, theatre, and ad campaigns while producing her own indie projects. In this talk, she reflects on embracing change, switching paths, and why every story begins with honesty. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 24:11Building Without a Blueprint: My Journey in Real Estate | Vinay Singh | TEDxGEA YouthDeveloper Vinay Singh shares how his early experiences shaped his approach to business, risk, and redefining success in real estate. Vinay Gopal Singh is the Chairman and Partner at Je & Vee Infrastructure. From learning the basics of land trading with his father to leading a top Mumbai-based organisation, his talk is about persistence, vision, and finding meaning in the process of building both structures and self. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx