In her insightful talk, "Words That Build, Not Crumble," Kristi Ardiana explores the profound impact our words have on relationships and self-perception. Drawing inspiration from a poignant lyric by Taylor Swift, Kristi reflects on how emotionally charged words linger in our memories, often more vividly than neutral ones. Through personal anecdotes and backed by research, she reveals how our language can shape realities and influence our interactions with others. Kristi introduces the DEEP framework-Distance, Empathy, Education, and Purpose-as a guide for navigating the complexities of modern communication. By learning to pause, empathize, continuously educate ourselves, and approach conversations with a constructive purpose, we can ensure our words foster understanding and build stronger connections, even in a polarized world. Join Kristi on a journey to harness the power of words to create a more empathetic and unified society. Kristi Ardiana is a prominent leader in education and international youth advocacy. As the CEO of Eduquip Education, she champions the advancement of 21st-century competencies, preparing Indonesian youth for the demands of the modern workforce through innovative educational approaches that emphasize critical thinking, creativity, and technological literacy. Additionally, Kristi serves as Indonesia’s Chair for APEC Voices of the Future, representing Indonesian youth in pivotal discussions on economic, social, and sustainable development across the Asia-Pacific region. Her work not only enhances educational access and quality but also ensures that young Indonesians are equipped to navigate and contribute to an interconnected global community. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx