Savraj Matharu, Course Leader on the Interactive Media Practice MA course, recently participated in a live event with the British Council and Future Leaders Connect to discuss ‘Creativity in communities during COVID-19: developing inclusive solution to global challenges’.
The event discussed how artists, entrepreneurs and leaders are finding new ways of working with communities in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Guest speakers included Rashmi Dhanwani, founder of the Art X company, Jude Kelly, founder and director of The WOW (women of the world) Foundation, and Tizzita Mengesha, cofounder and CEO of Maisha Technologies. They shared their opinions and experiences from around the world in an open discussion.
The conversation, which took part on 17 September, explored topics such as how important creativity is in adapting to the challenges and opportunities presented by COVID-19, how creativity can provide innovative solutions for communities in crisis, whether creativity is inclusive by nature, and what it takes to be creative.
Future Leaders Connect, part of the British Council, is a pioneering policy and leadership programme for outstanding individuals all over the world between the ages of 25-35. It aims to establish a worldwide network of emerging policy leaders to recognise and explore significant change regarding global challenges.
Speaking on the opportunity, Matharu said: “It was a true honour to participate in this live event, together with global leaders in innovation. Creativity is instrumental in our society and how we respond to global challenges, particularly through digital innovation. The Future of Jobs report by the World Economic Forum, which considers employment, skills and workforce strategy for the future, recently highlighted ten top skills within the fourth industrial revolution. In summary, creativity was highlighted as one of the top ten skills.
“We are facing significant societal challenges. Our discussion during this event highlighted global thought leadership, the importance of inclusion, and innovation, which is redefining core areas of our society, from a global perspective. The process was very enriching with new methods of practice, and a fresh insight towards problem-solving and solution-orientation.
“I am a firm believer of universities playing an instrumental role in developing students, which will be able to meet the challenges of our future. The University of Westminster has a rich history and legacy of innovation through the Quintin Hogg Trust. We are proud to continue the legacy, supporting the advancement of education for our students.”
Professor Alexandra Hughes, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Employability, said: “At the University of Westminster we are proud to be a welcoming, diverse and inclusive organisation. Our global engagement activity is a key part of that. Our overseas students, colleagues, partners and collaborations are vital to who we are and what we do. We are delighted that this is reflected in Savraj’s involvement in the British Council’s live event.”
Learn about Art, Design and Visual Culture and Computer Science and Engineering courses offered at the University of Westminster.
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