Inspiring the Leaders of Tomorrow: Dr. Rashmi Mantri Takes the TEDx Stage at Mayo College, India

Scotland’s Pioneering EdTech Entrepreneur Returns to Her Roots

Dr. Rashmi Mantri, Founder and Director of the Glasgow headquartered but globally operating British Youth International College (BYITC), delivered an inspiring address at TEDxMCGS Youth, an independently organised TED event held at the prestigious Mayo College Girls’ School, Ajmer.

The event, themed around “Ideas Worth Spreading,” featured a line-up of thought leaders who shared powerful stories of innovation, resilience, and social impact. Dr. Mantri’s talk, titled “The Journey of Entrepreneurship: From Personal Experiences to Founding a Global Business,” traced her extraordinary path from humble beginnings in Pushkar, Rajasthan, to becoming one of the UK’s leading EdTech pioneers.

Reflecting on her roots, Dr. Mantri shared her long-standing admiration for Mayo College – an institution she once dreamed of studying at but never had the opportunity to. Standing on its grounds as an invited speaker, she described the moment as

“deeply emotional and full circle,” noting that Mayo had silently shaped her aspirations long before BYITC existed.

“The reason I call BYITC a college is because of Mayo College – an institution that has inspired generations. Before I could build a platform that empowers thousands, I had to build myself – from a little girl in Pushkar with nothing but a dream, and a mother who believed education could change everything”

she said.

During her visit, Dr. Mantri was especially impressed by Mayo College’s vibrant international student exchange programme, which brought together students from the UK, Russia, Belgium, Australia, and many other countries. She highlighted how this global exposure stands in stark contrast to the era she grew up in – when opportunities for girls’ education were limited and societal expectations often held young women back. Witnessing confident young girls representing diverse nations, collaborating effortlessly, and embracing leadership reaffirmed to her how far India has progressed in bridging gender disparities.

Her story centred around the theme of trying and rising after every fall and this persistence and purpose resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring the transformative power of education, technology, and self-belief. Through BYITC, Dr. Mantri continues to bridge creativity, learning, and technology – empowering children worldwide with skills for the future.

TEDxMCGS Youth also featured distinguished speakers, including Mr. Shantilal Joshi, celebrated Phad artist and Presidential Award recipient; Mr. Shyam Sunder Paliwal, Padma Shri awardee and pioneer of the Piplantri Model; and Ms. Yashnita Nambiar, a student leader from Mayo College Girls’ School.

Hosted at one of India’s most respected educational institutions, the event epitomised TEDx’s mission to foster dialogue and inspire meaningful action.