A second-year WIUT student on joining at DEN’s 8th conference, and writing her first book chapter
Bahar Emine Özdemir, second-year student, Westminster International University in Tashkent (WIUT), Uzbekistan
Part of the Inside Westminster anniversary series marking ten years of the Democratic Education Network.
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How did you first come into contact with DEN?
I first joined DEN at its 8th annual conference, and I was drawn in straight away by the warm community, and by the safe space it creates for everyone’s voice to be heard.
Which DEN activities have you taken part in?
I took part in the 8th and 9th conferences, wrote a chapter for the DEN annual book, and attended the weekly meetings.
Was there a moment at DEN that has stayed with you?
What has stayed with me is the encouragement I felt throughout my entire journey at DEN. Knowing that my ideas and my voice were genuinely valued by the people around me.
What aspects of DEN have had the biggest impact on you?
Becoming more active, learning new things, and writing my own chapter for the book have had the biggest impact on me.
How has DEN helped you develop personally?
DEN helped me grow by giving me the space to learn new things, and to build my confidence.
Has DEN helped you with employability or professional development?
It has been a real asset on my CV.
What is one thing DEN has given you that you would have struggled to find elsewhere?
A genuine, active community, and real friends. That is hard to find.
What advice would you give to students thinking of joining?
Get involved, work hard, enjoy every moment, and make the most of the opportunities DEN offers. It is a real privilege to be part of such a community.
What would you say to a colleague at another university?
DEN is a genuine, welcoming community worth being part of, and I would recommend it without hesitation.