Alia Attar 

What are you speaking about and why did you choose this subject? 

“​​I’m speaking about protest fashion through different historical examples. I chose this subject because I’m really interested in fashion and design, as well as history, and I thought it would be a unique way to approach the intersection of these two, especially since it’s very relevant today. It’s also the topic of my U.S. research paper, so I became more interested in the topic as I learned more about it!”

When did you first realize this was the subject that interested you? 

“I have always really loved fashion and sewing from a young age, but I began to recognize how politics influences fashion, especially during the summer of 2020.”

What motivated you to do a TED Talk?

“I wanted to do a TED Talk because I have a lot of ideas to talk about, and I wanted to be a part of a really cool opportunity at LFHS.”

What do you want people to learn or appreciate about your TED Talk?

“I want people to enjoy learning about a different type of history [fashion history] that really tells a story about a certain time period through an artistic lens, especially since many people can think history is really boring. But in protest fashion, it is really powerful.”

How did you prepare for the TED Talk?

“Like I said before, it’s also my U.S. research paper topic, so I had all of my research done! But for the speaking part, I recorded my speech on my voice memos app and I recite/listen to it every day while getting ready and on the way to school.”

How nervous are you to speak in front of so many people? 

“I’m honestly not that nervous, I’m trying to think of it as something more fun and exciting rather than something to be scared of!”