Westminster students have had the chance to explore the professional environments of Cairo and Mumbai as part of the Westminster Working Cultures (WWC) International programme. The trips provides an opportunity for students to enhance their knowledge and awareness of the dynamic and evolving world of work in some of the world’s major cities.
WWC International gives students the unique chance to hear from a diverse range of alumni speakers and partner organisations from across the globe and be guided by them in their journey to become work-ready, confident and successful graduates. The WWC programme was made possible by the generous funding support from the Quintin Hogg Trust and was organised by the WWC team within the Alumni Relations Office.
In December two separate groups of 19 students each visited Cairo and Mumbai, where they met 36 Westminster alumni and partners. Across 21 sessions, they heard about various professional journeys unique to the local working environment and explored different sectors such as Business, Entrepreneurship, International Development, Journalism and Media.
About the experience with WWC Cairo, Illustration BA Honours student Ayesha Reeves said: “Being a part of WWC Cairo 2024 was truly an unforgettable experience, both professionally and personally. I found myself meeting people and making connections I did not expect, and I truly have met some amazing people and had amazing experiences.
“Walking away from Cairo I am determined to return in the near future; my love for the city is so unexpected but so welcomed, and I can absolutely see myself there for a prolonged period. I am inspired creatively, professionally and interpersonally, and I have the desire to immerse myself in my work and my passions more than I ever have during my university experience. I am truly thankful for this experience and am sure that I will carry it with me for the rest of my life.”
Throughout the trips alumni speakers showcased the working cultures of, and routes into, organisations such as the British Embassy, British Council, Deloitte and Google Cloud. Participants also heard from several speakers who have started their own businesses, learning about what it takes to thrive as an entrepreneur. The group in Mumbai also visited ATLAS SkillsTech University, a longstanding partner of the University of Westminster, for a series of sessions, a tour of the campus and an insight into what it is like to be a student in Mumbai.
With visits from esteemed alumni and partners, trips to corporate offices and cultural excursions, including visits to the Pyramids in Cairo and Dharavi in Mumbai, one of the world’s largest slums, students were able to find strength outside of their comfort zones and meet both local and expat role models who reflected on their challenges and life experiences.
WWC is designed to support Westminster students' professional skills development and global outlook. It is comprised of WWC International and WWC UK, which features a range of successful alumni and partner organisations with over 1000 Westminster students and recent graduates participating. WWC International has hosted 33 trips worldwide since its launch in 2017 and WWC UK has hosted 16 programmes and numerous events since its launch in 2020.
About volunteering with WWC Supryia Sobti Gupta, Marketing Communications MA alumna and Founder at MOW Productions, said: "During my first year at university a chance encounter with a BBC recruiter on campus that led to my dream job. That moment taught me the power of perseverance, the importance of seizing opportunities and how a strong professional network can be truly transformative.
"Two decades later, when WWC reached out to invite me to speak to a diverse and dynamic group of students visiting my hometown of Mumbai, I was eager to contribute. The University of Westminster offers not only exceptional academic programmes but also fosters a world-class network. I’m excited to continue engaging with this community and to be a part of its growth story."
Upcoming WWC programmes will occur in Istanbul in April 2025 and the UK and Singapore in June 2025.
WWC directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education. 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.
Learn more about Westminster Working Cultures or email the Westminster Working Culture team.
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