Leaders in Dialogue (formerly Impartial Chairs) participant, Diego, reflects on his journey from a participant on the programme to co-hosting UCL's 'The Bridge' podcast. Leaders in Dialogue is a sector-leading skills programme providing equipping students to navigate leadership in an increasingly polarised world.

Leaders in Dialogue is made possible by the generous support of Pears Foundation.

Born in London and surrounded by diverse cultures and communities, I have always been interested in how big ideas can be effectively transmitted and received across difference, how we can identify human universals and use them to bring people together on a social issue, and how divergence in opinions can lead to a broader, deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face, instead of pulling us apart.  

My interests naturally led me to the Leaders in Dialogue (formerly Impartial Chairs) programme. It offered a means for me to learn both the theory and the practice of disagreeing well, all while surrounded by like-minded people who brought their own experiences, viewpoints and skillsets to the group. I learnt more about how to recognise my own biases, what to do in situations where ideological positions are in conflict, and how to elevate underrepresented voices. Through expert-led workshops, a truly mind-opening exploration of The Conflict in Northern Ireland, and continuous conversation with the rest of the cohort, I have never been more confident in my ability to mediate sensitive conversations and work with others to achieve real progress on difficult topics.

Equipped with the skills to approach social and political debates tactfully, I went on to co-host and co-produce the second series of the Students' Union and UCL’s podcast The Bridge, introducing the episodes and reflecting on the conversations, and providing a student’s perspective throughout the process.

With a wonderful team from across UCL, the Students’ Union and Research Podcasts, we aimed to investigate socially relevant and controversial issues by calling on two guest speakers from opposing sides of the thought spectrum to state their case, share opinions, and move towards common ground.

While this common ground was not always reached, the balanced format of The Bridge tapped into my belief that the biggest social challenges can only be overcome by listening to those we don’t agree with. As a Leader in Dialogue I was primed to accept views different to my own, responding to them thoughtfully and without judgement.

Applications for the next cohort of Leaders in Dialogue will open on 21 September. Click here to apply.

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