#BeTheChange

This symposium left me with one clear message:
If you want to be the change, you have to become the change— in your actions and your choices. Big or small, you can make a difference.

In August 2024, I had one of those “pinch me” moments that will stay with you forever. I was honoured to be selected as an Australian delegate representing the University of Technology Sydney at the 12th University Scholars Leadership Symposium, organised by Humanitarian Affairs Asia. Supported by a university scholarship, I fully immersed myself in a whirlwind of cross-cultural communication, deep connections, and enough shared wisdom to fill a UN headquarters. Walking into that iconic building in Bangkok felt like stepping into a global history book—without the worry of overdue fines.

A recurring theme throughout the symposium was #BeTheChange. On the first day, this notion felt a bit daunting to me. You’re alongside 500 like-minded delegates from across the globe, and we all definitely share that “how can we be the change?” question. Throughout the symposium, we listened to courageous, dedicated, and selfless individuals—the kind of people your parents would nudge you to emulate—and I began to understand. Firstly, that my parents should’ve nudged harder, and two, that these speakers weren’t just sharing their
stories of heroism; they were offering blueprints for how we can all contribute to something greater.

We heard from David Begbie of the Crossroads Foundation, who is transforming lives in impoverished communities, and from Ifrah Ahmed, whose powerful advocacy against female genital mutilation (FGM) was both sobering and inspiring. But what truly tied together these teachings for me was hearing from Lek Saengduean Chailert of the Save Elephant Foundation. I realised that change starts with who we are in our everyday lives.

One of the most impactful moments was our Kindness Day visit to the Elephant Nature Park, founded by Lek. Watching these massive, majestic creatures transform into overgrown puppies at the sight of her was like witnessing the world’s biggest group hug. Lek’s energy transcended language, species, and size. Her genuine compassion for these elephants allowed her to establish such a close bond that they trusted her to help, love, and care.

I used to think being the change was about grand gestures and sweeping movements. But this symposium turned that idea on its head. I learned that “being the change” isn’t just about what you do—it’s about who you strive to be every day. The tiny, everyday movements count—the quiet decisions to act with intention, kindness, and an open heart. Who knew that change could start with something as simple as a smile, a handshake, or, in one case, a very enthusiastic elephant trunk?

Lek showed me that true change is rooted in compassion—the selfless act of putting another living creature before yourself. She couldn’t speak the elephants’ language, but her compassion communicated volumes. This symposium wasn’t just a gathering of over 500 participants from 46 countries; it was a collective energy of change. This symposium left me with one clear message: If you want to be the change, you have to become the change— in your actions and your choices. Big or small, you can make a difference.

Thank you to Humanitarian Affairs Asia, the speakers, my fellow delegates, and the University of Technology Sydney for enriching my experience at this symposium, I’ll cherish it forever.

Heather Donnelly-Zdebski
Bachelor of Communication (Media Arts and Production)
BUILD – University Scholars Leadership Symposium (Thailand)
BUILD Global Ambassador Grant recipient