[Music] [Applause] [Music] I was in grade 11 and that's when school started taking coding a bit more seriously. We were doing Python, the programming language, once a week. And unlike most subjects at school, I was really bad at Python.And I hated it. I hated the feeling of discomfort every time would get to class. And session after session that feeling of discomfort started getting to me.So I went back home one afternoon and I got into this retrospective exercise. And the purpose was to try and understand ...

Core Argument - The key to artistic success lies in embracing discomfort, a skill often overlooked in education and misrepresented by media [4][5] - The media and social media perpetuate myths about the creative process, erasing the struggles and discomfort involved [5][9] - Discomfort should be viewed as a compass, guiding artists towards challenging and worthwhile endeavors, rather than a warning sign [28] Myths Debunked - The myth that finished art pieces are first drafts is false; art is iterative and thrives on revision [11][12] - The "romance of the big idea" is misleading; staying committed to an idea through discomfort is more crucial than the initial inspiration [14][17] Discomfort Differentiation - It's crucial to distinguish between "bad discomfort" (gut feelings, warning signs) and "good discomfort" (challenge, curiosity) [20][22] - "Good discomfort" involves embracing the unknown and attempting new skills, leading to growth and creativity [24][25] Practical Application - Artists should welcome bad days and moments of discomfort, recognizing them as essential to the creative process [32][35] - The focus should be on making art regardless of external validation (likes, follows, praise) [34][35]

Core Argument - Embracing discomfort is essential for personal growth and societal impact, as it serves as a catalyst for change and self-discovery [3][23][24] - Choosing discomfort, even when privileged, can inspire others to confront challenges and contribute to positive change [23] - Leadership is not defined by academic achievement but by empowering others and leveraging discomfort for the greater good [16] Personal Journey & Motivation - The speaker's personal experiences with poverty and social inequality in the Philippines fueled a desire to create opportunities for others [4][5] - Overcoming personal challenges, including introversion and ADHD, was crucial in developing leadership skills and resilience [5][9] - The speaker's initial struggles and feelings of exclusion motivated the creation of a safe space for young people to express themselves and make a difference [7][14] Organizational Impact - The Azen Youth Advocates Network, founded in 2019, has impacted over 350,000 young people through 250 programs across Southeast Asia [14][15] - The organization provides a platform for young people to address discomfort and contribute to civic duty in regions with failing democracies [17] - The speaker's pursuit of a master's degree is aimed at enhancing career prospects and providing more opportunities for young people back home, despite facing financial struggles and discomfort [18][19] Future Aspirations - The speaker envisions making the Azen Youth Advocates Network fully sustainable with an advocacy center to further its impact [20] - The speaker acknowledges the privilege of choosing discomfort while recognizing that millions face it without choice, reinforcing the commitment to continue advocating for change [22]