Westminster Working Cultures returns for new academic year to connect students with global career networks

Made possible through the generous support of the Quintin Hogg Trust, WWC is a University-wide initiative that helps students build career confidence, develop professional skills and broaden their global outlook through meaningful connections with Westminster’s diverse community of alumni and industry partners. The programme supports Westminster’s ambitions for Zone29, the University’s new home for careers and enterprise, which connects students and graduates from all backgrounds with opportunities, experiences and professional networks needed to succeed. This semester’s trips offered students an immersive introduction to professional life in different global markets, combining workplace visits, panel discussions, networking opportunities and practical insights from industry experts. Across three cohorts, students took part in almost 30 sessions with 46 Westminster alumni and partner organisations, exploring sectors such as the creative industries, entrepreneurship, event production, film, government, marketing, recruitment and technology.

Students heard from professionals at leading organisations including the City of London Corporation, Cognizant, Google Canada, Magnite, the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, Softcat, Uber and the World Economic Forum. They also connected with entrepreneurs and creatives, gaining first-hand perspectives on building successful careers and businesses in a range of international contexts.

Highlights of this year’s programme included a day trip to York, visits to Tokyo-based partner SEKAIA Inc. and Toronto Metropolitan University, and a tour of Toronto’s MaRS Innovation District. These experiences provided students with the opportunity to explore different professional environments, ask questions and build relationships beyond the classroom.

In Toronto, students also enjoyed a special opportunity to meet Westminster alumna Nancy Beso and watch her award-winning film ANGH during its premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), offering a unique insight into the creative industries and the journey behind bringing a film to an international audience.

Through these experiences, WWC continues to help students broaden their ambitions, strengthen their professional networks and develop confidence to navigate their future careers.

Reflecting on the WWC UK trip, Biomedical Science BSc Honours student Milena Franke, said: “From the very first day, this experience has brought me more knowledge, confidence and learning than I could have imagined. As I progress in my career, I will always remember and carry this experience with me, but also as a reminder that taking a step forward and seeking opportunities to learn can be the first step towards building our potential and skills.”

Since launching in 2017, WWC International has hosted 42 global trips, while WWC UK, launched in 2020, has delivered 21 domestic programmes and a range of follow-up events. Together, they have reached over 1,000 Westminster students and recent graduates. The next WWC international programme will take place in Mumbai in December 2026 and the next WWC UK programme in April 2027.

The WWC programme directly contributes to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4: Quality Education, 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and 17: Partnerships for Goals by helping students build the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in an interconnected world. 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 by visiting the Westminster Working Cultures webpage or email the Westminster Working Cultures team.