Students at the University of Westminster have taken part in the Future Leader Experience, a leadership development programme run by Common Purpose. The programme was designed to help ambitious students build career-ready leadership skills, encouraging them to think critically, collaborate effectively and tackle real-world challenges faced by businesses and organisations.
The programme was made up of a series of interactive workshops, industry visits and hands-on leadership challenges where students were pushed out of their comfort zones and given the chance to learn directly from senior leaders across a variety of sectors. By the end of the programme, students walked away with practical leadership experience, valuable professional connections and a newfound confidence in their ability to lead.
Through immersive industry visits students had the opportunity to meet professionals who are leading change in their respective fields, offering a behind-the-scenes look at leadership in action. They spoke with a range of industry leaders including Lance Norton, Delivery Manager at WaterAid, who shared how empathy is a crucial leadership trait in the non-profit sector; Jo Jengo, Strategic Lead at Women in Parliament, who discussed the role of leadership in shaping policy and advocacy within government initiatives; and Ash Rahman, Founder and CEO of Pro Touch SA, who highlighted how leadership can drive youth empowerment through sports. These conversations provided students with a first-hand understanding of how different leadership styles can be effective across industries, from non-profits to sports and corporate sustainability.
Beyond the industry visits, students dove into hands-on leadership challenges, interactive workshops and group discussions with professionals. Working in teams, they tackled real-world business problems, applying skills like problem-solving, critical thinking and teamwork. Peer coaching sessions also encouraged students to reflect on their own leadership styles, while interactive problem-solving challenges tested their decision-making skills under pressure.
Students also had the opportunity to visit Design Bridge and Partners, where they explored the intersection of branding, sustainability and leadership. Helen Hughes, Sustainability Director at Design Bridge and Partners, led discussions on the growing scrutiny brands face regarding sustainability, emphasising the importance of backing commitments with concrete action.
Imaan Navaz, Master of Business Administration (MBA) student, said: “I went in with limited leadership experience and came out with something truly valuable. Meeting Lance Norton at WaterAid made me realise that empathy is not a weakness in leadership — it’s a strength.”
Subear Hersi, Marketing Management BA Honours student, added: “Visiting Design Bridge and Partners was a highlight for me. Since they’re part of the communication company WPP, one of my ideal companies to work for, it was great to see how branding can be a force for sustainability.”
Sports Management BA Honours student Mateo Batol said: “Exploring Westway Trust was eye-opening. Seeing how the community came together despite challenges was inspiring. The problem-solving challenges also pushed me to improve my presentation skills and think like a business leader.”
About the programme Leonard Nedelcu, Work Based Learning Curriculum Liaison Officer, said: “The Future Leader Experience was more than just a programme, it was a transformative journey for the students at the University of Westminster. By immersing themselves in real-world leadership scenarios, engaging with inspiring professionals and tackling complex challenges, participants gained not only practical skills but also a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with purpose and impact. The programme reminded us that leadership isn’t about titles or authority; it’s about empathy, collaboration and the courage to step up and make a difference. Whether through sustainability, advocacy or community empowerment, the students saw firsthand how leadership can drive meaningful change across industries.
“As they move forward in their academic and professional journeys, the lessons learned and connections made during this experience will undoubtedly continue to shape their paths. The Future Leader Experience has set the stage for these students to become the innovative, empathetic and resilient leaders of tomorrow—ready to take on the challenges of an ever-changing world.”
This programme directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about studying at the Westminster Business School.
