Theme: Carpe Diem: Why Don't We

Ever caught yourself asking, "Why Don’t We?"
Get ready to seize the day and spark change at our flagship TEDx event!

As the saying Carpe Diem reminds us to seize the day, this TED theme explores why so many of us hold back. Speakers will share moments when they stepped into the unknown-despite fear or doubt-and discovered the power of taking chances and living in the moment. Like adventures on a journey ,they found new opportunities, personal growth, and unexpected rewards. In return, attendees will hopefully leave feeling inspired, curious, and excited to embrace life's opportunities with a fresh sense of courage and enthusiasm.

TEDxSunwayUniversity: Carpe Diem – Why Don’t We?

Join us as we feature bold and brilliant speakers from various fields—technology, entertainment , design, business, arts, sports, and more—share how questioning the norm led to extraordinary breakthroughs.
DATE: 17th May 2025
TIME: 10am till 2pm
VENUE : JC1, Sunway University, Level 1

JC 1 Hall
JC1, Sunway University
Jalan Universiti, Petaling Jaya
Bandar Sunway, Selangor, 47500
Malaysia

Ayu Shahirah Salem

Digital Designer

Ms. Ayu Shahirah Salem is an Experience Designer at bp, where she leads initiatives across digital experience design, operational resilience, and AI adoption — all while balancing a part-time PhD pursuit in Information Technology. With expertise spanning UI/UX development, digital innovation, and enterprise technology, she brings a human-centered approach to every project she undertakes. Her project experience includes leading software design and testing initiatives, developing small-scale distributed systems, and applying machine learning models for practical applications such as material strength prediction. A passionate mentor and advocate for community development, Ayu actively supports fresh graduates and young professionals by sharing career insights and fostering growth within the tech ecosystem.

Dr Azhar Ahmad

Medical doctor

Dr. Azhar Ahmad is a medical doctor with nearly 20 years of global experience in the pharmaceutical industry, currently serving as Head of Medicine at Boehringer Ingelheim, leading teams across Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. A graduate of Newcastle University and holder of a Diploma in Pharmaceutical Medicine from Cardiff University, Dr. Azhar has held senior roles in Europe, the US, and Asia, contributing to major advancements in cardiovascular and anticoagulation therapies. Ranked #8 LinkedIn content creator in Malaysia, he shares daily insights on career growth and life, with over 27,000 followers. He is also the creator of The Career Autobahn, a platform and newsletter helping professionals accelerate their careers.

Dr Yvonne Chong

Neurodevelopment Specialist

Dr. Yvonne is a Childhood Neurodevelopment Specialist and Fellow of the International Board of Functional Neurology, specializing in treating neurodevelopmental disorders. At Neuroactivehub, she uses functional neuroscience, music, and digital arts to improve brain health and treat conditions like post-concussion syndrome. She also practices at Brainhub Sydney and YC Chiropractic & Exercise Therapy, offering chiropractic care to support brain performance and neurodevelopment. .Dr. Yvonne holds a postgraduate diploma in childhood functional neurodevelopment and a Master’s degree in Chiropractic from Macquarie University. Dedicated to helping children with autism spectrum disorders, she incorporates the Mellilo Method and functional neuroscience principles in her practice. She is also passionate about mentoring emerging professionals in her field.

Geetha Shankaran Lam

Artist + Indian Classical Dancer

Ms Geetha is a Malaysian-based Indian classical dancer with over 40 years of experience in the performing arts. She received formal training in Bharatanatyam under Teacher Krishna Kumari and later in Odissi under Padmashri Datuk Ramli Ibrahim. In addition to her expertise in Indian classical dance, she has studied various other dance forms, including ballet, contemporary, Chinese classical, and folk dances. Ms Geetha has led numerous performances, workshops, and training programs locally and internationally, and has served as Head of the Odissi Department at the Temple of Fine Arts. She has been recognized with multiple awards for her contributions to arts education and cultural development in the Southeast Asian region.

Huey Ching Foo

Head of Strategic Marketing

An expert in influencer marketing, social media strategy, and brand growth. With a proven track record in leading KOL campaigns and digital marketing strategies, she delivers data-driven, impactful results across industries. Her expertise spans content strategy, digital advertising, and social media growth, helping businesses stay ahead in a dynamic digital landscape.

Mr. Matthijs Geert Jan Van Leeuwen

Chief Innovation Officer of Sunway Group & CEO of Sunway iLabs

Matthijs (Matt) is a dynamic innovation leader and entrepreneur with over two decades of experience driving impactful ventures at the intersection of technology, education, and sustainability. He currently serves as Chief Innovation Officer at Sunway Group and CEO of Sunway iLabs, where he leads ecosystem-building efforts across startups, corporate innovation, and academia. In addition, Matt plays a key role in advancing agri-tech as Director of Sunway XFarms and digital talent development as Director of 42 Kuala Lumpur. With a strong background in venture capital and business development, supported by academic credentials from the University of Cambridge and Utrecht University, Matt is deeply committed to nurturing Malaysia’s innovation landscape, including through his long-standing involvement with the Malaysian Business Angel Network (MBAN)

Muhammad Usman -

AI Integration Lead

Mr. Muhammad Usman is a Finance professional turned AI Integration Lead , where he drives AI engineering initiatives with a focus on community development and strategic sales. Alongside his industry work, he serves as an AI Program Committee Member at University of Malaya, helping shape future AI curricula to meet evolving market demands. . A passionate educator and public speaker, he has also contributed to Teach for the Needs, Kara Tutoring, and Toastmasters International. With expertise spanning statistical analysis, economic intelligence, and knowledge engineering, he continues to bridge technology, education, and business with a human-centered approach