A Politics and International Relations graduate on the DEN conference, writing blogs, and hearing the Afghan border story that changed how she read politics
Maliha Hussain, BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations, University of Westminster, Class of 2025, United Kingdom
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?
When I first joined the University, I wanted to join a politics society, but at the time it did not exist. I spoke to the Faculty Advice Network and asked what else I could join, and they suggested DEN. I was also in Dr Farhang’s seminar in my first year, and he encouraged me to take part. Since then, I attended most sessions throughout my time at Westminster.
Which DEN activities have you taken part in?
The DEN conference, reviewing and writing blogs, and chairing events and sessions.
Was there a moment at DEN that has stayed with you?
One of the things that has stayed with me most is hearing the life experiences of other DEN members. DEN is genuinely global, with students and contributors connected to places including Vietnam, Türkiye and beyond, as well as students from Westminster itself.
One conversation that particularly stayed with me was hearing another student’s experience of the Afghan border, and how she and her father had to leave everything behind. It was an emotional moment, but it also reminded me of the very real experiences behind many of the political issues we discuss. People are often striving for a better life, or trying to escape war, persecution and circumstances beyond their control. Hearing these experiences first-hand made the discussions at DEN feel much more personal and much more meaningful.
What aspects of DEN have had the biggest impact on you?
DEN had a huge impact on my confidence, particularly when I first joined as a fresher. I remember speaking to older students, and being able to learn from their experiences, which was something I initially found quite intimidating and never thought I would be able to do so comfortably. Over time, DEN helped me become much more confident in putting myself forward, speaking to new people, and contributing to discussions.
How has DEN helped you develop personally?
DEN has really helped me develop my communication skills. I became more confident in speaking to different people, in understanding how to communicate with different audiences, and in knowing when to listen as well as when to contribute. Being around students from different years, different backgrounds and different countries also taught me how to adapt the way I communicate depending on the person, and depending on the setting.
Has DEN helped you with employability or professional development?
Definitely. One of the biggest things DEN helped me develop was my writing. Writing blogs for DEN taught me that not everything needs to be written like a university essay. I learned how to communicate ideas in a way that is engaging and accessible to a wider audience, while still being thoughtful and well-researched. I also gained experience reviewing other people’s work, which helped me become more aware of different writing styles, and of how to give constructive feedback.
What is one thing DEN has given you that you would have struggled to find elsewhere?
A real sense of community. When I first started university, I found it difficult to find a group of people who were genuinely passionate about politics, society, and international affairs. Somehow, I found that community through DEN. It brought together people who were interested in having conversations beyond the classroom, and it gave me a place where I felt I could learn from, and contribute to, others.
What advice would you give to students thinking of joining?
Just join. Do not hesitate because you feel inexperienced, or because you feel you have nothing to contribute. I joined as a fresher, and initially felt quite intimidated speaking to older students, but some of the best experiences I had at university came from simply getting involved. You never know what opportunities, friendships, or conversations might come from saying yes.
What would you say to a colleague at another university?
DEN is an amazing network for connecting young people who are passionate about politics, society, and creating change. What makes it special is that it connects students across different countries and backgrounds, while giving young people the opportunity to learn from each other, to take on responsibility, and to become leaders in their own way.
Should DEN do anything differently in the next decade?
I think DEN could invest more in its social media and digital presence, so that more students know about the network and the opportunities it offers. Greater visibility could help DEN become more mainstream, attract more students, and potentially strengthen its funding base. That could then create even more opportunities for international activities and exchanges. Having experienced the value of international opportunities myself, including my trip to Thailand through DEN, I would love to see more students have access to those experiences in the next decade.
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Photo caption: DEN Conference 2025, presenting a dissertation topic. Graduation Ceremony, Southbank Centre.
