International learning experience at Virtual Global Citizens Conference 2020

Delegates from Germany, Norway, Rwanda, Sudan, South Africa, Nigeria, Qatar, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam, China and St Lucia joined LJMU students and staff at the Virtual Global Citizens Conference (VGCC) on 11^th November and 12^th November 2020. The conference concentrated on seven adapted UN Sustainability Development Goals. One the first day of the conference, particular focus was given to the topics of mental health and wellbeing; employability and careers and gender equality. On the second day, the themes of technology and innovation; access to justice; sustainability and climate change; race and diversity were discussed.  Keynote speakers included Shwetal Shah of MediaCom Global and the Lord Mayor of Liverpool Anna Rothery. Delegates were also treated to a video recording from Dr Jane Goodall, a leading primatologist.

A number of LJMU alumni participated in the mental health, employability and the BAME careers panels. The BAME careers panel was organised by LJMU Student Union, the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team, the Alumni Team and the Faculty of Business and Law. We were honoured to have the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ian Campbell, attending the session.  The BAME event brought together delegates from several nations, community representatives, staff and students from the HEI sector. Our BAME alumni speakers reflected on their university experience in a powerful way and offer tips to delegates on positive action measures going forward. 

Reflecting on the conference, Dr Alison Lui, Associate Dean Global Engagement and organiser of the conference, said: “The pandemic concentrates minds and digital technology provides a great platform for virtual exchanges. The VGCC  brought together like minded individuals who are keen to promote the common goal of global citizenship. In such challenging times, this is most heartening. We were privileged to have excellent speakers and delegates from all over the world at the conference. My sincere thanks to the VGCC working group; the Pro Vice Chancellor of the Faculty of Business and Law and the Vice Chancellor for their support.”