Round Square International Conference 2025 Dubai – Beyond the Dunes

Although I am only 16 years old, I think it is safe for me to say that the Round Square 2025 Conference has been the best adventure of my life. From the moment we landed in Dubai to the plane ride home, every single second was one that I will cherish forever. On the first day of our arrival, we were instantly hit with the intense humidity that was present in the air, but the excitement radiating off all the students was an instant mood lifter. It was such an incredible opportunity to be able to meet so many like-minded and friendly students from all parts of the world. We made friends with people from the UK, Germany, Peru, Canada, USA, France, Belgium, India, Dubai, Japan, Australia and many many more. Through interactive discussions, workshops, and cultural experiences (like riding a camel after dinner in the dunes or enjoying dinner on a boat through Dubai’s harbour), I also learnt to explore more deeply about leadership, service, and the environment and what it means to me. Experiencing Dubai’s culture with our newly made friends made it so much more fun and interesting to learn about. We planted trees on Environment Day, served lunch at a Sikh Temple during the Service Day, and trekked through Dubai’s mountain landscape on Adventure Day. Most of all, I value the connections and friends that I have made on this trip, both within our MLC School community but also internationally. This trip taught me that leadership begins with empathy and understanding, and that having an open mind is what success is built upon (and also to never take air-con for granted ever again!). I am eternally grateful to have been able to experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where all the experiences and lessons that I have learnt can be shared in my life beyond the dunes.
– Angelina Xu (Year 10)

Attending the Round Square Conference in Dubai was an incredible and unforgettable experience. I really enjoyed connecting with students from around the world and sharing ideas about leadership, sustainability, and global citizenship. The workshops and discussions challenged me to think differently and helped me grow more confident expressing my opinions. One of the highlights was when we worked together to make a natural pesticide using everyday ingredients. It was a hands-on way to learn about sustainability and how small innovations can have a big environmental impact. Outside of the workshops, I also enjoyed exploring Dubai’s culture and city life. Visiting the Dubai Mall was amazing and walking around the huge aquarium and all the international stores was an experience I will never forget. Overall, the conference gave me new friendships and perspectives and I came home feeling motivated to apply what I learned back here at MLC School.
– Meena Kanthathas (Year 10)

A heartfelt thank you to Henry Wijanto and Bridget Kovats along with Lisa Moloney for generously giving their time during the holidays to accompany and support our six students from Year 10 and Year 11. Your enthusiasm, care, and commitment ensured our students had an enriching and memorable experience representing our school on the global stage.

– Xavier Maling
Officer Commanding MLCSACU; Teacher

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