The 3rd annual University Scholars Leadership Symposium, organised by London based social enterprise Humanitarian Affairs UK, was held in Bali in August. Hosting four hundred delegates from 33 countries worldwide, the symposium brings together students who are actively involved in sustainable development to discuss global issues including extreme poverty and the environment.

Two University of Newcastle students, and active iLEAD participants, Emily Wood and Steve Filby, were selected from a strong pool of candidates to represent the University. Having engaged in the five day program Emily and Steve have gained the skills and understanding to be able to plan, manage and implement a successful humanitarian service project in their own local communities and indeed, around the world.

During the symposium, Emily and Steve attended presentations from global guest speakers and participated in practical projects such as helping to build houses in local villages, distributing staple foods to local residents and playing with children from several orphanages in the region.

Emily Wood, currently in her 2nd year of a Bachelor of Development Studies said, "Attending an international conference with a focus on my field of study was an exceptionally beneficial experience. Networking with students from all over the world studying similar degrees to my own was an incredible opportunity I would never have had without the iLead program. I learnt so much from speaking to the other delegates about their experiences. Gaining a global perspective on domestic and international issues has certainly allowed me to rethink the way I approach my degree and my future."