Six Scotch Oakburn College senior students are in Dubai, UAE, for the 2025 Round Square International Conference. The week has been filled with opportunities to engage with students from across the globe, to learn from one another, and to reflect on the richness of cultural diversity.

Olivia Stevens spoke of discovering that “diversity doesn’t separate us but deepens our understanding of different cultures,” after connecting with students whose lives at first seemed so different but proved to be deeply familiar.

Samuel Fischer found that being surrounded by so many new faces pushed him out of his comfort zone but ultimately gave him greater confidence, adaptability, and patience.

Fraser Russell, from St Phillips College in Alice Springs reflected on the openness of the global community, noting how welcomed he felt, even being “adopted” by Scotch Oakburn. He described the experience as both grounding and enriching.

For Gomanth Anand Lokesh, the most powerful moments came from hearing perspectives from people of differentiation, so often underrepresented, and from confronting cultural contrasts and inequalities that challenged his thinking.

Oliver Atkins was struck by the cultural celebrations and how deeply people in Dubai value their natural environment, while Elizabeth Moore gained new appreciation for both home and the cultures of others through experiencing the UAE’s unique way of life.

Harriet McQuestin found joy in the unexpected—turning bus rides into cherished times of singing, laughter, and new friendships.

Together, these students have represented Scotch Oakburn College with curiosity, openness, and empathy, and will be returning with, not only new friendships, but also an expanded world view that will benefit our College community. But first, an exciting five days lie ahead as we change pace for a five-day experience in Oman, learning about another ancient culture.

 

Stuart Walls
Director of Round Square