Building on the success of the inaugural Queen’s University Belfast Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) Forum held in March 2025, the second forum, held in June 2025, focused on the theme “Sense of Belonging and Microaggressions among International Students.”
Led by Dr Elida Cena and her research student Yushan Tang Wilson from the School of Psychology, the session explored the lived experiences of Chinese and Indian students at Queen’s, examining how microaggressions and cultural dynamics shape their sense of inclusion and belonging within the university community.
A panel of academic, professional, and student representatives further contributed to the discussion, offering conceptual insights and practical strategies to strengthen inclusion, foster belonging, and address microaggressions across the institution.
The DEIB Forum series is dedicated to promoting dialogue and strengthening support for international students and staff at Queen’s. Colleagues from across Faculties, Schools, and Directorates are warmly encouraged to volunteer as forum leads or co-organisers, proposing theme-based topics that reflect shared interests and priorities across disciplines and professional areas.
Presentations
Related Reading
Cena, E., Burns, S., & Wilson, P. (2021). Sense of belonging, intercultural and academic experiences among international students at a University in Northern Ireland. Journal of International Students, 11(4), 812-831. https://doi.org/10.32674/jis.v11i4.2541