BCU student helps put young people's voices at the heart of Birmingham Tech Week

A Birmingham City University student helped shape a major Birmingham Tech Week event that put young people on stage to share their views on artificial intelligence, enterprise and technology with industry leaders.

The Future Leaders event, held at The Birmingham Rep, brought young people and business leaders together to discuss emerging technologies, advances in AI and the skills needed to succeed in a fast-changing workplace.

On the organising committee

Azka Hussain, 20, who studies Computer Science at BCU, played a big part in delivering the event as part of the organising committee. She helped facilitate it on stage alongside Sarah Griffiths, Director of PMO at Intercity, a Birmingham IT firm.

"When shaping the agenda, I wanted to ensure we focused on topics that current students and young people are genuinely struggling with, particularly the impact of AI on future careers, the changing skills needed in the workplace and how young people can adapt to these changes," said Azka.

She also wanted to encourage other students to take every chance that comes their way, highlighting "the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone, trying new things and making the most of every opportunity throughout university."

Young voices, big questions

The event began with a look at the opportunities and challenges facing young people and new graduates, followed by responses from a panel of students, including BCU Computer Science student Kulsoom Alim.

Other highlights included showcases from student start-ups, a panel of young professionals sharing their experiences of the first few years of their careers, and a discussion of how AI will affect future skills and job prospects.

Birmingham Tech Week is a week-long conference showcasing the region's digital sector, bringing together policymakers, business leaders, companies and universities to share ideas and drive innovation.

"Helping to define" the future

Alexa Hartwell, Head of STEAM Academy at BCU, said: "I was delighted to be part of the Birmingham City University organising committee alongside our brilliant students and to see them take such an active role throughout the event.

"The event saw young people take to the stage to share their experiences, ideas and concerns about the future with honesty and passion.

"What stood out the most was their optimism and enthusiasm, alongside an honest recognition of the challenges ahead, from discussing the importance of developing transferable skills and resilience to adapting to an AI-enabled world while protecting critical thinking, creativity and human connection.

"It was inspiring to see industry leaders witness a generation that is not only preparing for the future but helping to define it."

For students worried about what AI means for their careers, events like this offer a chance to be heard by the employers who will shape those jobs.