Who Writes Our History | Gabrielle Prayoga | TEDxUniversitas Prasetiya Mulya

In a world flooded with information, the stories we learn about the past are often carefully chosen, not complete. This talk reveals that history isn't just a neutral set of facts. Instead, it's frequently shaped by those in power, who intentionally leave out crucial viewpoints and erase entire communities from the record. When we accept these one-sided historical accounts without question, we risk limiting our understanding of ourselves, our values, and the possibilities for our future.
Recognizing that history is a curated tale, influenced by the winners for political, cultural, or ideological aims, empowers us. It allows us to think critically, ask tough questions about existing narratives, and dig for the untold pieces of our collective story. This awakening helps us reclaim the power to remember fully and fairly, building a more complete understanding of our past and, in turn, shaping a more inclusive future. Gabrielle M. Prayoga is a young researcher and writer who believes that knowledge becomes powerful when it meets real experience. As a business student, he has explored how research can bridge academic insight and community impact, from writing his own book to joining a live-in program within the Kuningan coffee industry. His journey reflects a deep curiosity about people, processes, and stories that shape meaningful change. Through his work, Gabrielle represents a generation of learners who see research not as theory, but as a living tool to understand and improve the world around them. 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