Education is a deeply human endeavor, one that has the power to inspire, transform, and shape lives. At a time of AI-accelerated change, how do we preserve the warmth of human connection in the classroom while unlocking the potential of every learner? 

This year, the Yidan Prize Summit presents a dedicated session for educators. Without prejudice, rigid structure, or jargon, we’ll dive into open, honest conversations that uncover the most authentic stories of teaching and learning. 

You will hear wisdom that emerges from everyday classroom experiences, meaningful teacher-student relationships, and lessons learned through practice from: 

• A school founder who challenges existing models to build what she believes is possible 
• A social worker navigating the fine line between his professional role and authentic relationships 
• An arts educator who nurtures humanity and meaningful connection through creativity and artistic exploration 
• A teacher whose genuine care for students as a mentor and friend extends beyond the classroom. 

You will also witness a conversation that transcends borders and contexts. Voices from local, regional, and global education communities will come together to explore a pressing question: What shifts when connection comes first? 

You will meet: 

• A teacher working with children in refugee communities 
• A secondary teacher creating space for connection in Hong Kong’s fast-moving environment 
• A school principal reimagining education and school culture in Shenzhen. 

This focus on educators echoes a key finding of the OECD’s PISA 2025 report: strong teacher-student relationships are essential to student engagement and growth. As Andreas Schleicher, OECD Director for Education and Skills and Chair of the Yidan Prize Judging Committee, puts it: teachers are not only instructors, but also coaches, mentors, community builders, and architects of learning environments.  

The true impact of education lies not only in what is taught, but in the authenticity, lasting relationship, and character-shaping experience shared between teachers and students. Join us for an afternoon of reflection, inspiration, and renewed commitments to education. 

This educators’ session is led by Daniella Lopez, Founder and Curator of TEDxHong Kong, and supported by Impact Partner, The D. H. Chen Foundation.

Global leaders, policymakers, grassroots organizations, researchers, and youth come together for dynamic sessions designed for active learning, exchange, and connection. From Oakland to Jakarta, Helsinki to Hyderabad, movements on the ground are proving that students — and societies — thrive when we build communities around human connection.

• Keynotes and panels: In the age of AI, how can we elevate what is distinctly human? And what does it take to reorient education systems toward human flourishing?
• A major announcement: A milestone in advancing global education, with commitments to action
• Learning labs: Reclaiming the human spark in education through motion, creation, and reflection

The Summit culminates in a celebration of the 2026 Yidan Prize laureates and their remarkable achievements in education research and education development. Join us for a black-tie gala dinner with leaders across business, research, policy, practice, and philanthropy.