The first time I went abroad, I didn’t choose to travel or visit a place familiar to Vietnamese
people. I went to London – a city that had only existed in my imagination through movies and
books – to attend an international conference organized by the Democratic Engagement
Network (DEN) at the University of Westminster.
I didn’t expect this trip to change me so profoundly. At first, I simply thought I would go to
learn, meet international friends, and challenge myself. But as each moment passed – during
the conference, in London – I realized I wasn’t just travelling geographically, I was also
moving further along the journey of understanding myself.
The theme of this year’s conference was: “Inclusive Education for Global Change: Student
Engagement in Sustainable Development”. When I first read it, it felt a bit lofty and
academic. But after listening and participating, I understood that DEN wasn’t a place for
one-way lectures from a podium. It was an open forum where students from many countries
could honestly and respectfully share their perspectives, experiences, and even
uncertainties.
I went with my friend – Que Anh – who had studied with me throughout our four years at
university. We prepared our presentation together, shared our nerves and excitement. but
thanks to her, I felt much steadier. I was truly grateful to have a familiar companion in an
unfamiliar space.
At the conference, I presented “Circular Economy: Success Stories from Developed
Economies and Vietnam’s Approach”, highlighting examples like Adidas’s fully recyclable
shoes and Japan’s reuse of Udon noodle waste back into Udon noodle. These cases show
how circular models drive both environmental protection and innovation. I also shared
Vinamilk’s approach in Vietnam – recycling waste into energy and fertilizer, using eco-friendly
packaging, and building a green supply chain – as proof that the circular economy is
becoming a key driver of sustainable development in the country.
Before the presentation, I still felt immense pressure and anxiety. Language barriers, inner
hesitations, fear of judgment… all combined to create extreme tension. But somehow, once I
stepped into the DEN space, I felt a lot lighter. No one made me feel out of place. The
international friends were always friendly, ready to help, and most importantly: no one judged
me. As Professor Farhang Morady said in the closing ceremony: “DEN is where you can say
whatever you think – without fear of being judged”. I realized that with just a safe and
encouraging environment, people can overcome themselves more than they ever imagined.
Beyond the hours at the conference, I wandered through London – famous landmarks,
flower-lined alleyways, quiet parks, bustling local markets. Contrary to my initial image of a
glamorous and cold city, London appeared vibrant and real. It was those simple moments
that made me reflect: sometimes, the beauty of a city doesn’t lie in its grand icons, but how
people live slowly and kindly with one another.
I’m truly grateful to the people who made this journey possible. Michelle, Salman, Afra, Rita,
Fatima, Mubina, Layla, Charlene, Noor, and even the friends I met briefly during breaks, at
lunch tables – thank you for your hospitality, warmth, and making for me – a girl travelling
abroad for the first time – not feel alone.
I felt London with a suitcase full of immeasurable things: gratitude, deep connections, a
broader worldwide, and a new version of myself – stronger, more confident, and ready to
move forward.
And if someone asked me: “What’s the biggest thing you gained from DEN?”, I wouldn’t
hesitate to answer:
It’s the belief that no matter where we come from, every young person can contribute to
change. And sometimes, it all begins with daring to say what you truly believe in.
Vu Huong Thao