What did I do? What did my project achieve?

My project was focused on the topic of extremism, and how we as a civil society could counter it. I was responsible for researching how cases of extremism have affected society in the past, conducting a literature review of all the previous research that has been published on the issue, and coming up with recommendations on how to tackle this crisis. The depth of knowledge I gained from completing this project was truly fantastic. I learned so much about a critical issue that has affected so many communities. I was able to understand the macro- and micro-level factors that encourage extremism, and what we as a society can do to help those vulnerable to radicalisation. The research I did on extremism will be featured in a policy paper that is being published later in the year – so keep an eye out!

I also worked on the Talking Bubble project, which matches volunteers with ‘befriendees’ suffering from loneliness so that they can interact with each other once a week. I was tasked with streamlining the project and ensuring that everyone using the service had the best experience. This means that even though I have moved on, Talking Bubble staff have a system in place that will allow them to optimally match volunteers and clients by using the tools I created.

Both projects are archetypal of the Dialogue Society’s community-based approach. Although they are different in their content, they have one holistic purpose: to foster empathy and provide support for vulnerable people. The extremism research project aims to educate people about the issue of extremism and the risks of radicalisation. It gives people insight into how radicalisation occurs, and how society can prevent this in our young people. On a more individual level, Talking Bubble deals directly with those suffering from a different type of vulnerability. It provides a service that reduces isolation and promotes communication. 

What did I learn?

The lessons I learned at the Dialogue Society have been invaluable. I can honestly say that I have finished my leadership-in-action project as a better person. 

Responsibility

Each of us has a responsibility to look after ourselves and those around us. Whether you live in a small village or a metropolis, you are part of a wider community that needs you! As a leader, you have a duty to empower those around you.

Integrity 

As C.S Lewis once said, 'integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching'. This is true in both our personal and private lives; a leader should be upright and honest. Set the right example as a leader, and you will nurture an environment of decency and respect.

Confidence

Don't be afraid to stand up for what is right! Don't be afraid to take action! Trust in yourself, in your instincts, and in your knowledge to fight for the causes you believe in. This is always difficult because not everyone will agree with you, but remain self-assured and continue to advocate for a hopeful future.

Did I achieve what I set out to do?

My time at the Dialogue Society gave me a renewed and re-energised perspective of the world. With all the negativity that can sometimes surround us, it can be difficult to be optimistic about the future of our society. However,  the Dialogue Society are an inspiring organisation with a hands-on approach to inspiring change. I am proud to have been part of a team that is so committed to helping others and creating a better future. I learned more about myself than I could have ever predicted. I have started my second year of university with all the lessons I took from my leadership-in-action project and I can already see how it has changed how I think - for the better!

I believe that our research on extremism can be truly beneficial for many communities. If leaders, educators, and policymakers can learn about how extremism comes about and how to tackle it, society can become a more inclusive and safer space. For example, understanding how radical and extremist groups operate online can mean that adults are better able to detect signs a young person is falling victim to radicalisation. Or if we know about the different types of extremism that are on the rise, we can come up with activity-specific counter-extremism solutions.

Walking to campus each morning, I always seem to look up and smile when I see the Dialogue Society office. Although I ended my leadership-in-action project only last month, I already miss the team and all the work we did together. 

Finally, I want to say a BIG thank you to the amazing people at the Dialogue Society. Thank you Mr Cem, Sadik, Cigdem abla, Celeste, Fatima, Saide, and Bhakti.