More than 300 students from around the world gathered online this week for the Student Leaders Global Dialogues, hosted by Edmund Rice Education Australia.
The event brought together young leaders from across the global Edmund Rice network in a powerful experience of connection, faith, leadership and global solidarity.
Representing more than 60 Catholic schools across 13 countries, students explored leadership, service to others, faith as a force for good in the world, and the importance of global collaboration.
The dialogues form part of an ongoing initiative that connects current and future student leaders, giving them the opportunity to share ideas, discuss global issues, and learn from one another through the message and life of Jesus and the lens of the Edmund Rice charism.
Students were formally welcomed by Dr Michael Slattery KSG (EREA president) and Dr Liam Smith (EREA executive director), who encouraged students to embrace their role as global leaders and to use their leadership to make a difference in the world.
The dialogue began with Mose’ Taiatini, college captain of St Edmund’s College, Canberra, reminding student leaders of the importance of global connection for young people.
“Today, more than ever, it is important that young people connect beyond borders. We live in a world that faces shared challenges – including inequality, conflict, war, climate change, and division – but also shared opportunities for hope, leadership, and action,” he said.
“When students connect globally, we begin to understand one another better, learn from different perspectives, and recognise that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves.
“My hope for these global connections is that they help us grow not only as leaders within our own schools, but as leaders for justice, compassion, and service in the world. I hope we leave these conversations with stronger friendships, deeper understanding, and the confidence to work together to make positive change in our communities.”
A special guest for the event, joining from Rome, was Br David Silva, deputy congregation leader of the Christian Brothers.
Br David spoke about the example of Jesus and Edmund Rice, and how their lives continue to inspire young leaders to make a difference in the world today.
He reminded students that they are not simply the leaders of tomorrow, but passionate and engaged leaders of today. He also reminded the young leaders of the powerful words of Pope Francis: “Todos, todos, todos!” (Everyone, everyone, everyone) – encouraging them to embrace inclusion, belonging, and global solidarity.
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“Todos, Todos, Todos”: Edmund Rice student leaders unite across the globe (EREA)
