This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. In this talk aimed at secondary students in London, Victoria Waldersee describes her personal academic journey in the studies of economics and presents a compelling case why we rethink how we learn, teach and understand economics.

Victoria is part of the Rethinking Economics, a global student-led movement which aims to diversify, demystify and invigorate economics. Currently a BA Chinese and Economics student at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), Victoria believes there is an urgent need for our society to re-evaluate our economic system to safeguard human rights, environmental sustainability and social justice.

Victoria co-founded the SOAS Open Economics Forum, a student society which aims to forge links between economics and other social sciences through events, workshops, and discussion groups. She also seeks out third sector organisations in the UK with similar aims to Rethinking Economics to create a network of organisations seeking positive change. She has spoken at the Houses of Parliament and on BBC World about the importance of changing the way economics is taught at universities, portrayed in media and incorporated into political discourse.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)