Raj Kumar is an enthusiast who strives to create opportunities for his community that are truly unique and inspirational. For his Annual Small Grant (ASG) project, Raj and his team executed the second edition of TEDxIslamkot to bring the platform of technology, entertainment and design to the audiences of Thar with the motto ‘Thar Ne Badla Pakistan.’ The TEDx platform amplified the voice of the people of Thar as well as their culture and ideas and provided them a chance to interact with inspirational artists, entrepreneurs, and activists from around Pakistan.

Over a hundred U.S. government-funded exchange program alumni from all across Pakistan gathered to travel, network and enjoy a first of its kind experience in the desert of Thar – an area that, despite its lack of development, has an immensely rich, tolerant and diverse culture. Through TEDxIslamkot, participants absorbed the local culture through folk music, traditional cuisines, and creative art while engaging in thought provoking discussions with the guest speakers during their TED talks. 

TEDxIslamkot received exclusive media coverage that brought necessary attention to the social and economic issues in the area. The informative sessions focused on current challenges while proposing plausible solutions for droughts, energy crisis, food insecurity, and cultural exports. Community engagement programs were promoted, and challenges faced by women in political participation were also brought to attention. Additionally, the participants were given the opportunity to take part in meaningful activities including an open discussion, bootcamp, and a formal networking dinner. Participants were also taken on an exposure visit to Gadhi Bhit, a renowned tourist attraction in Thar. The event ended on a high note with a Sufi musical evening that featured local artists and received a lot of praise from the guests.