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ECHOES
Of History

Founder

Kai DeBenedictis

The Duty of Remembrance for The Fallen _ Nicholas Paillart & Kai DeBenedictis _ TEDxDubai

Kai DeBenedictis, a Dubai-based teen historian and published writer, has already made waves through his talks, archival research, and curatorial work.

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With Indian, Italian, and American heritage, Kai brings a unique lens to the historical narratives we think we know.

Projects

TEDx

Delivered a talk focused on preserving history through the lens of younger generation to 40 attendees; only high schooler selected for evening session

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Documentary

Mapped lineage across 4 continents, analyzed records & personal stories in historical context; screened at Waterfront Indie Film Fest; 500 YT views

Screening

At WIFF Mumbai’s sixth pre-festival screening, 17-year-old Kai DeBenedictis premiered Roots Across Continents, blending personal heritage and global history in a moving documentary that connected family stories with world events.

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Exhibition

Hosted school exhibition for ~1.1K attendees, highlighting French WWII veterans’ stories; delivered speech & earned front-page Khaleej Times coverage

Internships

Researched global spread of Indian Rupee, producing research paper for exhibition; gained curatorial experience with artifacts & explored numismatics and interned at the Opera del Duomo & Opera di Santa Croce – Cultural institutions preserving art & heritage in Italy 

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Literary Festival

Featured as 1 of 8 youth authors & launched debut novel to 120 people at Emirates LitFest; moderated 2 panels ('23–'25), engaging authors & audiences

JESS Community Outreach

The JESS (Jumeirah English Speaking School) Community in Dubai is a diverse group of students, staff, and families from around the world who are part of a leading not-for-profit international school

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