Leeds Students Celebrate Cultural Diversity Through New Campaign

Passport to Culture campaign fosters connection among international and home students

A recent initiative at Leeds University Union has brought students together to celebrate the diverse cultures represented within the university community. The Passport to Culture campaign aimed to highlight the shared global identity of both international and home students through cultural exchange and storytelling.

Encouraging exploration and reflection

As part of the campaign, over 250 ‘passports’ were distributed to students. These passports encouraged participants to reflect on their personal journeys and experiences in Leeds, prompting them to share stories about what the city means to them. Additionally, a photo challenge was launched, designed as a scavenger hunt to motivate students to explore Leeds actively. This engagement with the city was intended to help foster a stronger sense of belonging among the student body.

Community celebration event

On 11 May, a celebration event was held in collaboration with Global Café. The event featured a large interactive map of Leeds where students could display their experiences and highlight favourite locations within the city. Despite coinciding with the busy exam period, the event attracted a significant number of participants, reflecting the campaign’s positive reception.

• Zi di Li highlighted Hyde Park Picture House as a meaningful location
• Ye Swan Yee chose Kirkgate Market as a favourite student spot

Student perspectives on the campaign

Feedback from participants emphasised the campaign’s impact. One student reflected on how the passport prompted them to recall various stories from their three years in Leeds, describing the experience as “beautiful.” Another student stressed the importance of discussing inclusivity and diversity, noting that issues such as racism and hate are experienced both on and off campus. They expressed a desire for Leeds to be a safe and welcoming place for all students.

Broader significance and impact

The Passport to Culture campaign not only celebrated cultural diversity but also highlighted the significant contributions that students make to the city of Leeds through their presence and stories. The campaign took place amid growing anti-immigrant and anti-international student sentiments, emphasising that these challenges affect wider communities beyond the university setting.

By encouraging storytelling, participation, and allyship, the campaign sought to strengthen connections among students and promote a collective response against discrimination and division.