The eighth DEN annual conference came to an end and it is time to reflect on the insights andideas that I have taken from it. It was an enriching experience that exceeded my expectations.I have witnessed dedication and preparation shown by all participants, and I was notdisappointed. What has surprised me was the diversity of...
Layers of Legacy: Exploring New York’s Past, Present, and Global Future
The global metropolis of New York exists because of its profound historical background and its active cultural life and ongoing development. It stands at the heart of international diplomacy, finance, and the arts. New York exists as a literary concept in books and news for numerous people, including me. The city allows people to discover...
From Student to academia: An Interview with a University of Westminster Alumnus
As part of our Alumni Voices series, we spoke with University of Westminster graduate Gabriele Piazza, who is now pursuing an academic career at the London School of Economics (LSE). In this interview, Gabriele reflects on his journey from student to early-career academic, highlighting the pivotal role that the Democratic Education Network (DEN) played in...
Bridging Cultures: A Student’s Encounter with New York and the United Nations
New York is a major symbol of culture, history and international cooperation, making it anincredibly insightful destination for a field trip. Originally home to the Lenape people, the areaonce known as Lenapehoking was a land of thriving trade networks and deep environmentalconnection. Following the Dutch colonisation of Lenapehoking, it was renamed as NewAmsterdam in 1624....
Urban Psychology and Global Citizenship: Lessons from New York City
Education goes beyond traditional classroom education, according to my lifelong belief. My first year as a psychology undergraduate and membership in the Democratic Education Network (DEN) have taught me that learning happens through life experiences alongside dialogue, real-world interactions, book-based learning, and lectures. The upcoming May will provide me with my first chance to verify...
Transformative field trip to New York City and visit to the UN Headquarters
The Empire City, The Big Apple, Gotham or the City that Never Sleeps. These are just a few nicknames referring to the one and only, New York City. An important global hub since its invention, the city, in the current capitalist and personal freedom-driven era, has become the symbol of influence, endless possibilities and success,...
Layers of New York: A City Built by Histories, Cultures, and Ideas
In my first blog, I wrote about my expectations for New York and the United Nations, how I imagined the city as a centre of global diplomacy, cultural exchange, and dynamic energy. While I have not yet walked its streets, the materials we’ve studied in preparation for the trip have already offered a vivid lens...
Eighth DEN International Student Conference
Inclusive Education for Global Change: Student Engagement in Sustainable Development Date: Friday, 9 May 2025 Location: Portland Hall, Little Titchfield Street, University of Westminster, London W1B 2HW. Link to Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-eighth-den-international-conference-tickets-1297747540829?aff=oddtdtcreator? The Democratic Education Network (DEN) at the University of Westminster organises the 8th Annual International Student Conference to celebrate youth innovation, global perspectives, and...
My Educational Journey to the University of Westminster
I was born in London, and my early education started in nursery school before my family moved to Afghanistan. I learned English, Science and the national second language of Pashto along with the national curriculum from Reception to Year 4 at a private school. A bomb explosion near my school remains one of my clearest...
From Bangkok to Big Ben: My Journey to London and Global Education
The United Kingdom has a long history of being a democratic country and a significant power on the world stage. The capital, London, is a cultural and financial centre with a large and diverse population and a centre of learning and the arts. It is a perfect example of a country that can preserve tradition...
From Hanoi to London: A Journey of Academic Exchange and Cultural Discovery
This interview features Thuy Linh, a dedicated academic who played a pivotal role in organizing DEN’s inaugural international students’ conference in December 2024. Her efforts were instrumental in bringing together students to share their diverse experiences and perspectives. Looking ahead, Linh will be accompanying two students to DEN’s eighth international students’ conference, which will be...
A trip from Hanoi to London: Studying Knowledge, Culture, and Sustainability
My name is Vũ Hương Thảo, I am a fourth-year student of Development Studies at Hanoi University. This May, I will have the incredible opportunity to attend the Eighth International Student Conference at the University of Westminster in London. It will be my first time to leave the country and I am beyond myself with...
