Surviving War and Rebellion: A Run for Freedom | Zina Alhilali | TEDxTamworth

Born in Baghdad, Zina grew up in a world of war, oppression, and fear, especially as a girl. Her dream was simple: to run freely. But in a place where even movement was restricted, that dream felt impossible. Facing violence, cultural limitations, and war, she found her escape through education and became a doctor.

True freedom wasn’t just about leaving, she had to overcome the mental barriers shaped by trauma. This talk is about resilience, self-liberation, and the power of small dreams. Because freedom isn’t just external, it’s a mindset, a choice, and a journey we create for ourselves. Zina is a doctor, coach, writer and speaker dedicated to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and heal from trauma to unlock their fullest potential. With over 20 years of international medical experience, she blends science, empathy, and real-world insights to empower people to take control of their well-being. Taking the stage at TEDxTamworth, her talk, Surviving War and Rebellion: A Run for Freedom, explores how understanding our mind-body connection can transform the way we heal, grow, and thrive, allowing us to break free from past limitations and create the life we truly deserve. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx