University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS) in Kuala Lumpur

From 5–8 August I had the privilege of attending the 13th University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS) in Kuala Lumpur as a delegate representing the University of Technology and Australia.

It’s difficult to distil such a meaningful week into so few words. Over the course of the next few days, we heard from a range of incredible speakers. Below are some of my main takeaways:

• Simerjeet Singh, the Disruption Coach, reminded us that “all change, no matter how small, is meaningful”, and challenged us to start with what hurts and turn it into purposeful action by following the spark, speak, star, sustain, scale model.
• Nelly Cheboi, founder of Techlit Africa, CNN Hero of the Year, and a Forbes 30 under 30 honouree shared her journey of breaking her own family’s cycle of generational poverty, and the work she does now to help others do the same. She emphasised, “if you can be one thing, be kind”.
• Jeff Rotmeyer, founder of ImpactHK and Love 21 Foundation, reminded us that small acts of care create big impact. Whether distributing food to the homeless or building trust through consistent, respectful engagement, Jeff highlighted the very human need for community, and the transformative power of pouring consistent time, care and love into an individual.
• Estefania Rebellón, founder of Yes We Can World Foundation, creates safe, supportive learning environments for migrant and refugee children, and reminded us that “hope is a gift that we can offer to ourselves and to others”.
• Charlotte Yeung, UN Youth Disarmament Champion, encouraged each of us to find our unique calling. Hearing from a fellow university student doing such important work was particularly inspiring.
• Mariani Ramli, founder of the Gibbon Conservation Society, reminded us that leadership is about service, not recognition. “Even when no one is watching, the work still matters”, she said. Mariani’s commitment to wildlife conservation reminded us that real change happens when communities feel responsibility and connection to the world around them.

Beyond the keynote speakers, one of the most meaningful experiences for me was Kindness Day – a day devoted to spreading love, generosity and positive change. Alongside 79 other delegates, I spent the day prepping, cooking, packing and distributing food to over 1,200 urban poor residents. This initiative aimed to alleviate hunger and provide support to those struggling in the city’s urban environment. Kindness Day was a powerful demonstration of how impactful collective action can be when rooted in sharing values. It was a deeply rewarding experience.

I cannot thank UTS BUILD, UTS Global Short Programs and Humanitarian Affairs Asia enough for the opportunity to be a part of this invaluable experience!

Celeste Valiozis
Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of International Studies
BUILD – University Scholars Leadership Symposium (Malaysia)
BUILD Global Ambassador Grant recipient

For more information on UTS BUILD, please visit: www.uts.edu.au/build