My experience at the University Scholars Leadership Symposium 

 I recently represented UTS as a delegate, alongside 11 of my peers, at the 11th University Scholars Leadership Symposium in Bangkok, held at the United Nations Conference Centre. 

Across 4 days, we heard from different speakers on various social issues such as the digital divide, volunteering (and thinking critically about volunteerism), and female genital mutilation. 

We also attended workshops held by different UN agencies including UN Women, IOM, and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime. The International Organization for Migration’s (IOM) workshop on Migration and Sustainable Development Goals was a standout for me since I am particularly interested in this field careerwise. 

 We also got the chance to volunteer and paint at Suroutmaijaroen School in Pathum Thani, as part of the ‘Kindness Day’ activity. 

Going into the program, the social issue I was most interested in was Gender Equity and Equal education for all. The Symposium allowed me to explore these issues and learn about challenges affecting people in countries around the world. The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals were a continued focus throughout the USLS. 

It was a wonderful and inspiring week of learning, connecting with like-minded students, and exploring Bangkok. 

Bangkok was a lively and bustling city, everyone was super friendly, and we had time after the symposium to do our own activities, such as going to night markets or visiting temples. I visited Wat Arun temple or ‘Temple of the Dawn’ on one of these days. It was definitely a highlight of my trip! 

This trip, facilitated by UTS Build, was a great experience and was beneficial not only to my professional development but also integral to my personal skills, such as travelling independently alone for the first time. I also really loved networking from students all over the world and have built some great connections! Overall the program was a highly enriching experience, and I would definitely recommend it to others. 

Rida Khan
Faculty of Law
BUILD – University Scholars Leadership Symposium in Thailand
BUILD Global Ambassador Grant Recipient