“A single act of kindness can inspire another.”

From a Vietnam research trip to a vocation in child protection in Peru

Claudia Lindo, BA graduate, University of Westminster; now MSc Project Management student, Sheffield, United Kingdom (Peruvian heritage)

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 came into contact with DEN through Professor Farhang and his work at the University of Westminster. What attracted me was the opportunity to engage with students and academics from different backgrounds, while exploring important social issues through research, dialogue, and international collaboration.

Professor Farhang was one of the most influential educators during my undergraduate experience. His passion for teaching, learning, and research was evident in everything he did, and his encouragement inspired me to pursue opportunities that would ultimately shape my academic and professional aspirations.

Which DEN activities have you taken part in?

Three in particular: the international research trip to Vietnam; a research and writing project on human trafficking in Vietnam; and participation in DEN seminars and educational events focused on diversity, inclusion, and contemporary social issues.

Was there a moment at DEN that has stayed with you?

The experience that has stayed with me most was travelling to Vietnam and conducting research on human trafficking. During the trip, I had the opportunity to exchange ideas with professors and students, to learn about their lives and experiences, and to better understand the social challenges faced by different communities.

Researching and writing about human trafficking in Vietnam, while highlighting a related case in England, showed me the power of education, dialogue, and international collaboration. It transformed my understanding of research, and inspired me to think about how academic work can contribute to social change.

What aspects of DEN have had the biggest impact on you?

DEN’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and student empowerment has had the greatest impact on me. It created a space where every voice was welcomed and valued, regardless of background, culture, or perspective.

In many ways, DEN is one of the main reasons I fell in love with the University of Westminster. It showed me what a truly inclusive educational community can look like: one where students are encouraged not only to learn, but also to question, contribute, and take action. The experiences I had through DEN left such a lasting impression that I would be honoured to return to Westminster one day to pursue a PhD.

How has DEN helped you develop personally?

DEN helped me develop confidence, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation for different cultures and perspectives. It encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, and to engage with people from different parts of the world.

One of the most meaningful aspects of my DEN experience was the friendships I developed through the seminars, the projects, and the international trip to Vietnam. The students I met through DEN became much more than classmates. They became lifelong friends. In fact, of all the friendships I made during my degree, many of the people I remain closest to today are those I met through DEN. I learned so much from their experiences, perspectives and kindness. I have a special affection for each of them, and will always treasure the memories we shared.

The experience also strengthened my commitment to social justice, and reinforced my belief that education should be used to create positive change. Through DEN, I learned the importance of listening to others, of understanding different lived experiences, and of approaching social challenges with empathy and critical thinking.

Has DEN helped you with employability or professional development?

Absolutely. DEN provided practical research experience that went far beyond the classroom. Through the Vietnam project, I developed skills in research, analysis, writing, communication, and cross-cultural collaboration.

Most importantly, the experience inspired me to write my undergraduate dissertation on child trafficking in my home country, Peru. The wellbeing and protection of children has always been a passion of mine, and DEN gave me the opportunity to explore this interest through meaningful research and cultural exchange.

Today, I am beginning a Master’s degree in Project Management to develop transferable skills that will support my long-term goals. In the future, I hope to complete a second Master’s degree in Social Work, and eventually pursue a PhD focused on policies and protection for vulnerable children in rural communities in Peru.

What is one thing DEN has given you that you would have struggled to find elsewhere?

DEN gave me a genuine sense of belonging. It connected me with inspiring academics, passionate students, and lifelong friends. Some of the friendships I formed through DEN remain very special to me, and I will always treasure the people I met and the lessons I learned from them.

DEN transformed my university experience from simply earning a degree into becoming part of a community dedicated to learning, dialogue, and social impact. It gave me opportunities, confidence and purpose in ways that would have been difficult to find elsewhere.

What advice would you give to students thinking of joining?

Take every opportunity that comes your way. Be curious, ask questions, and engage with people whose experiences differ from your own. DEN offers much more than academic learning. It offers opportunities for personal growth, meaningful friendships, international experiences, and the chance to discover passions you may not even know you have yet.

What would you say to a colleague at another university?

DEN is a unique educational community that combines research, dialogue, international collaboration, and student empowerment. It creates opportunities for students to engage with important social issues while learning from people across different countries, cultures, and disciplines. More importantly, it gives students the confidence to believe that their voices matter, and that they can contribute to positive change in the world.

Should DEN do anything differently in the next decade?

DEN has already created an incredible platform for student voices and international collaboration. As it continues to grow, I would love to see even more opportunities for students to participate in international research projects and cross-cultural exchanges, particularly for those interested in addressing social challenges and creating positive change within their communities.

Anything else you would like us to know?

One of the greatest lessons I learned through DEN is that a single act of kindness can inspire another. The support, encouragement, and opportunities I received through DEN motivated me to support others, to pursue meaningful research, and to dedicate my future career to helping vulnerable children. DEN did not simply contribute to my education. It helped shape the person I am today. For that, I will always be grateful.

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Photo caption: “DEN inspired my commitment to research, social justice, and improving the lives of vulnerable children through education, cultural exchange and international collaboration.”