Shaping Future Leaders: Impact Lab Kicks Off Hilary Term

The Skoll Centre has launched the latest edition of its Impact Lab co-curricular programme, designed to empower University of Oxford postgraduate students to grow as impact leaders. This term’s cohort brings together 29 students from 17 countries, representing a diverse array of academic backgrounds and professional aspirations.

The Impact Lab welcomes students from across disciplines, including those pursuing an MBA as well as degrees in Clinical Neurosciences, Public Policy, Sustainability, Law and Finance, and Global Healthcare Leadership. With participants hailing from nations such as Nigeria, Peru, USA, India, Kenya, and Ukraine, the programme fosters an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.

The programme commenced with a two-day residential retreat (February 1-2, 2025), featuring leadership development workshops, community-building activities, peer learning sessions, and the programme’s signature storytelling session. The Lab’s structured curriculum across the term provides an opportunity for students to engage with leading practitioners and gain practical insights into social impact strategies.

Among the highlights is an interactive session on impact-driven decision-making with Esther Benjamin, CEO of World Education Services, and an impact leadership panel discussion featuring Skoll Centre Visiting Fellow Martin Kalungu-Banda, Skoll Centre Deputy Director Dr Catherine Hasted and Tima Bansal, Professor of Sustainability & Strategy at Ivey Business School. 

Additionally, the first module on social change foundations is led by Skoll Centre Visiting Fellow Cynthia Rayner with guest speaker Aisha Nankanja, founder of the Rural Water Initiative for Climate Action in Uganda. Other modules throughout the term will cover critical topics such as movement building, facilitated by Derrick Feldmann, and impact measurement, led by Nick Andreou.   

The Lab’s approach to learning is enriched through storytelling, peer exchanges, and community discussions, creating a collaborative space for students to share knowledge and personal experiences.

Reflecting on her experience from taking part in Impact Lab during the Michaelmas term, Aye Kyithar Swe (MBA) shared: “The Impact Lab was a standout experience for me during Michaelmas Term. The MBA journey has been a step outside my comfort zone. And in the midst of this transition, the small, dedicated cohort that gathered weekly became a source of grounding and inspiration. I particularly enjoyed the Storytelling Café and sessions—not only did they challenge my assumption that I could speak confidently only on topics where I had in-depth expertise, but they also introduced me to the incredible stories of my peers. It has been a privilege to be part of this community.”

Vafa Järnefelt (DPhil in Geography and the Environment) echoed similar sentiments: “I attended the Impact Lab to challenge and expand my perspective on achieving meaningful impact, and it exceeded my expectations. The diversity and rich life stories of the cohort were truly inspiring, reflecting the best of human potential. The organisers did an exceptional job in selecting a cohort that fostered deep reflection, collaboration, and a strong sense of belonging. This programme will remain one of my most memorable experiences at Oxford, showcasing the power of community and shared purpose.”

As the Impact Lab progresses through Hilary Term, participants will continue to explore pressing global challenges, develop leadership skills, and engage with thought leaders in the field of social impact. With its emphasis on experiential learning and community building, the programme is set to shape the next generation of leaders dedicated to driving meaningful change. The programme culminates with a graduate ceremony for Michaelmas and Hilary cohorts towards the end of March.