AUS Student Leadership Conference focuses on future of leadership

Students at American University of Sharjah (AUS) were introduced to an array of engaging topics in digital leadership, emotional and cultural intelligence, and change management at the AUS Student Leadership Conference recently.

Organized under the theme “Future of Leadership,” the two-day virtual event provided students with an opportunity to address the importance of flexibility and adaptability in leadership in a constantly changing world. The conference also included a series of workshops, webinars and networking events with prominent leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs from different sectors. Conference participants included representatives from Emirates Airlines, Diversitas Group and Wirecard, and featured a panel of entrepreneurs from Worldwide Formations, Aeronile, Unilever and BluePhin Technologies.

A highlight of the conference was an interactive competition that saw students analyzing and exploring the conference topics.

"We are happy to bring back the AUS Student Leadership Conference, organized by students for students. In a time where the world is changing rapidly, understanding how to cope with unpredicted change is essential. I want to take this opportunity to thank the conference committee for their hard work and dedication in organizing the event, said Dr. Lisa Moscaritolo, Vice Provost for Student Life.

Participants said the conference helped them hone in on skills they wish to sharpen. Christopher Idoko, a first-year mechanical engineering student, said: “I particularly learned a lot from the guest speakers who shared their experience and lessons learned. The conference also highlighted the competencies of a digital leader, and I know now what competencies I need to focus on and develop,” he said.

Vini Rupchandani, a first-year physics and psychology double major, found the conference inspiring: “The conference was a great way for me to expand my network of students and experts, learn from their experiences and ask them the questions that I have as a student aspiring to grow, gain confidence and step out of my comfort zone. Learning about other people’s experiences really made me believe that I am capable of achieving higher standards.”

The annual Leadership Conference was organized through the AUS Student Leadership Program, which engages students in leadership activities that hone their leadership skills and molds them into active leaders of tomorrow. The program cultivates positivity and strives to develop lifelong leaders by fostering ethical leadership qualities and offering a wide range of opportunities that develop students' leadership, personal and communication skills. The program supports AUS’ strategic goal of providing a transformative student experience through diverse and vibrant opportunities that support students’ development and enrich their lives.

For more information about the opportunities available through the Student Leadership Program, visit www.aus.edu/life-at-aus/student-life/leadership-program.