Spotlight
Student Profile
The Spotlight series offers the experiences of students and alumni. Each feature highlights an individual who has made a significant impact through a range of avenues, such as blogs, conferences, field trips, publications, and creative projects. These reflect the stories’ diversity, passion, and global viewpoints that are essential to DEN.
Salman Aziz
Salman Aziz is an undergraduate student and is an active member of DEN. His engagement with DEN has helped him build public speaking abilities while teaching him effective teamwork and management practices. His involvement also includes writing, blogging, organising and participating in DEN’s conference and field activities. This has deepened his knowledge about the UN SDGs and their global significance for youth populations.
“DEN helped me to build confidence in public speaking and taught me what the UN SDGs mean for young people around the world.
Contribution
- Online magazine – Read Salman’s blog post here
- Presentation at DEN’s conference
- DEN’s annual Book and SDGs, titled: Just Futures Sustainability Inclusivity & Education
Impact Statement
“Salman’s contributions advance SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 17 (Partnerships) by promoting student leadership and international collaboration.”
Layla Abdulle
Layla Abdulle is a passionate undergraduate student who has actively contributed to DEN by writing blogs, designing DEN’s merchandise, and participating in several other projects. She has written about equality and sustainability, linking her personal experiences to global challenges. Her participation in the DEN International Conference gave her the opportunity to present her work to a global audience.
“This experience allowed me to grow personally and academically, deepening my understanding of global inequalities and community resilience- topics which complement my International Relations studies.”
Contribution
- Annual Book: Education Journey and SDGs, read his article, Just Futures Sustainability Inclusivity & Education
- Conference: DEN International Student Conference 202, read here
Impact Statement
Contributed to advancing SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality) by promoting inclusive student-led research.
Ramadan Kamara
Ramadan Kamara is a postgraduate student who has actively participated in DEN conferences and published an article in DEN’s annual book. His involvement has helped him develop leadership abilities and build self-assurance when speaking to people from different countries. Through his thoughtful contributions about peace, youth activism, and justice, DEN has received valuable insights that have strengthened its worldwide dialogues.
“DEN taught me that learning goes beyond the classroom — it’s about collaboration, creativity, and global citizenship.”
Contribution
- International Conference, see a short video here
- DEN’s annual book, Just Futures Sustainability Inclusivity & Education
Impact Statement
Advanced SDG 16 (Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions) through student-led discussions on youth activism and democratic engagement.
