From the Sidelines to the Stage: My Second DEN Conference

At the beginning of May, I took part in my second DEN conference, and it turned out to be nothing like I had expected.

When I participated last year, my role had been relatively comfortable. I guided guests around, helped with reception, and presented alongside a few friends about our trip to New York. I assumed this year would follow a similar pattern. I was wrong.

In the weeks leading up to the conference, Farhang began encouraging the second year students, myself very much included, to step up and take on a more active role. It quickly became clear that there was no real escape from what felt like a looming and unavoidable fate: presenting to a room full of students and academics. And so, somewhat reluctantly, I began brainstorming ideas.

I had spent around four years working as a mentor and tutor at a tuition centre, teaching children how to prepare for and pass the 11+ exam. When I mentioned this to Farhang, he immediately encouraged me to explore it further and turn it into a presentation. I am very glad he did. It had never occurred to me to sit down and truly reflect on those four years, on everything I had learned, the challenges I had faced, and how much I had grown. The process of preparing the presentation became an unexpected journey of self-discovery.

On the day, I spoke about my experiences entering the education field, the issues I encountered in the workplace, and the lessons I carried forward. As I concluded, I was met with a standing ovation from my friends in the crowd. I had, admittedly, asked them to do this beforehand, but it still felt wonderful.

I have never been particularly comfortable speaking in front of large audiences. That has always been something I quietly avoided. But if it were not for Farhang’s persistent and patient encouragement to push us beyond our comfort zones, I genuinely do not think I would have found the courage to stand up there and own my story. For that, I am deeply grateful.

Overall, it was a truly wonderful experience. A group of passionate, driven, and curious individuals came together to discuss politics, history, and education from wonderfully different perspectives, united by one common thread: the genuine passion each speaker brought to their subject. That energy was infectious and inspiring in equal measure.

I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone to take part in DEN’s annual conference, or any conference that gives you the opportunity to share your voice. The knowledge gained, the conversations had, and the people met from all corners of the world, each carrying their own unique story, made this an experience I will not forget.

Suheyla Coskun