My name is Orasta Jumaeva, and I am a Commercial Law student at Westminster International University in Tashkent. Together with my university, I took part in the Democratic Education Network (DEN) Conference at the University of Westminster.
Our team presented two projects. The first, “The Silk Road Never Ended — It Just Went Digital,” explored how the historical Silk Road has evolved into modern digital networks, shaping trade, culture, and global connection today.
The second presentation, “When AI Thinks for Us: Teaching Youth to Question Technology,” was the one I contributed to. It focused on a question that many young people experience but rarely articulate: how much of our thinking we are outsourcing to technology, and whether we are still aware of it.
What stood out most during the conference was the range of perspectives. Students from different countries and academic backgrounds approached topics in completely different ways. This made each session engaging and, at times, unexpected. By the end of the day, the diversity of ideas made the experience feel fast-paced and intellectually stimulating.
Beyond the presentations, one of the most memorable parts of the conference was the interaction between participants. Conversations between sessions were natural and open, without the usual formality that often comes with international events. Being in an environment where people were genuinely interested in exchanging ideas made it easy to connect.
One thing that stood out just as much as the academic side of the conference was the way we were received by the students and staff at the University of Westminster. From the beginning, there was a genuine effort to make us feel included, and not just as visitors but as part of the community. Whether it was helping us navigate the city or simply taking the time to talk between sessions, their openness made a real difference to our experience.
The DEN Conference, led by Farhang Morady, brought together students who share a common understanding: that young people are not only preparing for the future, but are already contributing to the present. This created an atmosphere that felt collaborative rather than formal.
I returned to Tashkent with new perspectives, meaningful connections, and a clearer understanding of the importance of spaces that encourage open dialogue. Taking part in the DEN conference was a valuable experience that left a lasting impression.
Orasta Jumaeva