International Students’ Day is dedicated to recognising the contributions, challenges, and achievements of students from around the globe. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the unique journey of being an international student and to celebrate cultural diversity. We were absolutely delighted when spaces were offered to two Teesside University International Students to attend The APPG International Students Day, taking place in the House of Commons.
This year’s event highlighted the regional impact and lived experiences of international students. It was an opportunity to hear directly from student speakers as they shared their stories, perspectives, and contributions to communities across the UK, reflecting on their journeys beyond the classroom.
Teesside University nominated Deepika Jain and Mayowa Labiran.
MA Education student Deepika Jain has completed 179 hours of volunteering, earning a Gold Award at the latest Volun-Cheers Awards for her work with Middlesbrough Council, Boro Angels and the English Language Café. MA Digital Media and Communications student Mayowa Labiran has achieved an impressive 222 volunteering hours and also received a Gold Award for contributions to organisations including the North Yorkshire Moors National Park, Deafblind UK and Food Cycle.
Summed up beautifully in their own words, please read their blog to find out more.
“Attending the APPG for International Students celebration at the House of Commons was an experience we will never forget. As an international student at Teesside University, being invited to such a historic and prestigious venue felt both exciting and surreal. Walking through Westminster, seeing Big Ben up close and entering the House of Commons made the day feel incredibly special.
We were honoured to be nominated to attend and even more grateful for the chance to represent Teesside University. The event brought together students, sector leaders and organisations who are committed to celebrating the value and contributions of international students across the UK.
One of the most rewarding aspects was the opportunity to connect with inspiring people from all over the United Kingdom. We met international students who have made significant and positive impacts during their time here. It was so comforting and empowering to see international students being recognized not just for their financial contributions, but for the real, meaningful value they bring to their communities.
Throughout the event, we had the chance to meet inspiring people from across the sector, including representatives from BUILA, UKCISA, Study Group, AGCAS and the APPG team. We felt welcomed, valued and encouraged to share our own experiences as a volunteer and international student. The conversations were warm, positive and filled with genuine appreciation for the cultural, academic and social contributions international students bring to the UK.
We are profoundly happy and grateful to have been nominated to represent Teesside University at this prestigious event. It was an experience we will never forget”.
George Hunt, Teesside's Director of International Development, with responsibility for overseeing international recruitment, student mobility initiatives and international partnerships added the following statement:
“At Teesside University, we value the diverse perspectives international students bring, enriching learning and strengthening our community. Last year, our international students completed 7000 hours of volunteering in total, with 4755 hours to local charities. Through our Future Facing Learning model, we create opportunities for external engagement, building confidence, networks, and skills that enhance career prospects. Involvement in national policy discussions is just one example of this in action.”
Related Opportunities
Come along and make a Christmas Bauble with the Volunteering Team.
If you want to make a difference in your community and believe that people can change with the right help, then Save the Woman is for you! We offers skills and self development training for the volunteers on how to be passionate and driven for change
Every Thursday, from 2pm until 5pm, we host the crisp packet project in our Southbank hub. Since starting this project, it has helped supply homeless people in our community with insulated sleeping bags, blankets, pillows and many more items.
