The University of Westminster recently welcomed students from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) as part of the Democratic Education Network (DEN) 2026 Student Leadership Workshop, a dynamic, student-led initiative exploring leadership, collaboration and global perspectives in higher education.
At the heart of the programme was student–academic co-design and delivery. Westminster DEN students led discussions, workshops and experiential activities, creating a participatory learning environment where students were not only contributors but leaders of the exchange.
The workshop strongly emphasised cross-cultural collaboration, bringing together students from diverse academic, cultural and social backgrounds. Through shared activities and open dialogue, participants explored how leadership is shaped by different contexts and how collaboration across cultures can generate new perspectives.
In the morning, students from both universities participated in a guided tour of London, visiting key sites related to finance, governance and public space such as the Bank of England, London Stock Exchange and Lloyd's of London. Students were encouraged to reflect on how cities function as centres of global power, economic exchange and cultural interaction.
The focus shifted in the afternoon to an interactive, student-led leadership workshop. Through group discussions, collaborative tasks and reflective exercises, students explored different models of leadership, shared experiences from their own institutions and co-developed ideas for enhancing student engagement.
Dr Farhang Morady, Reader in International Development and Director of the DEN, said: “Through DEN, we aim to create environments where students lead, collaborate and learn from one another. This workshop was a clear example of that vision in practice, with students shaping dialogue, building connections across cultures and developing confidence as global learners.”
Michelle Ma, Student Development Manager, added: “We are especially grateful to DEN for hosting and facilitating the leadership workshop. The session fostered meaningful exchange, reflection and dialogue on student leadership between our two groups and proved genuinely valuable for everyone involved.”
Students from both universities highlighted the impact of the experience. Anjali Pandya, a Westminster student, said: “While the tour explored London as a global and historical city, it also highlighted the importance of dialogue, collaboration and shared learning in an increasingly globalised world. The city became a space where we exchanged perspectives on power, culture and global responsibility.”
A CUHK student reflected: “It was a great honour for me to participate in the field trip to London and leadership workshops guided by Dr Morady and the Westminster DEN students. The experience was truly inspiring. Exploring London’s iconic buildings that once played a vital role in its history, combined with exchanging ideas on leadership and culture, has significantly broadened my perspective. In particular, the enthusiasm of the DEN students inspired me to bring their spirit of confidence and friendliness to CUHK. Their ideas on student leadership have also motivated me to introduce similar initiatives at my university.”
The workshop directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education, 10: Reduced Inequalities and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about the Democratic Education Network at the University of Westminster.
To share ideas and engage in global dialogue at the DEN International Student Conference on 8 May 2026, register here.
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