News

The Warwick Film Festival

The University of Warwick is holding a film festival, exploring the theme of belonging. The films will give voice to the University community, to aspirations for a better world, and what we need to do to get there – reframe and enact. This film festival calls us to action, to engage with things that matter to us.

The University welcomes entries from students, staff, and the local community. Films should be between 8-20 minutes long.

Deadline for submissions: 23:59 21st May

About "NFTs, Blockchains and Cryptocurrency" workshop

The words "blockchain", "NFT", or "cryptocurrency" are often considered complex. With many companies and brands adopting these emerging technologies, it is important to understand these terms, and what they mean in simple and relatable terms.

This workshop was a successful primer attempt to simplify these complicated technologies and systems. The panellists provided an overview of NFTs, Blockchain, and Cryptocurrency, which enabled the participants to discuss these topics intelligently with each other.

Steve started the workshop with the fundamentals of Blockchain, Cryptocurrency, NFTs, and where they are headed. This was followed by a panel discussion with Steve and the guest speakers Kira Summer, Alex Harvey, and Jack Fenton, who debunked the most common myths around these technologies.

Kira's words on how 'Hashes' and 'Traceability' help bolster the security of Blockchain led to a healthy discussion with Jack and the audience on the comprehensive risk management system of a blockchain network.

After a debate on Blockchain and its advancements, Alex aroused curiosity with his compelling thoughts on NFTs and their application in the development of new business models. It was interesting to know how NFTs, the hottest trends in the world of cryptocurrency, have a ton of use cases beyond their typical NFT application. From representing physical objects, and protecting intellectual property and patents to increasing customer engagement for businesses, it was fascinating for the audience to think about NFTs beyond their digital content.

Jack wrapped up the panel discussion by talking about the influence of Blockchain and NFTs on the growing esports economy. The possibilities are vast with what Cryptocurrency and NFTs offer businesses interested in getting involved in blockchain technology, and this discussion was a great way to understand the real-world value of these technologies for businesses.

About "Diversity, Equality & Inclusion" workshop

Steph Cutler’s workshop on Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion was an insightful session. Her articulation of relevance and impact of diversity and inclusion through her stories were inspirational indeed. It was a great platform to showcase how people and culture intersect and overlap to make up every day human experience in an organization. Not only did it encourage us to reflect on how diversity and inclusion play an important role in an organization but also taught us how to value and treat every individual the way they want to be.

Steph introduced us to the Japanese word ‘Kiku’ which means to listen generously. Often do we end up creating unconscious biases within ourselves, which creates a barrier for others. This can take away an individual’s sense of belonging. How can we prevent that from happening? How do we make a difference? “By being allies,” Steph said. Listening generously to others and amplifying their voices’ gives an individual a sense of belonging. It makes one feel safe, understood, and appreciated. These are what an individual requires after all. To be loved, valued, and respected.

Find out more about Steph's inclusion consultancy, Making Lemonade.

Our new website

The Design Group has launched our new website (and you're looking at it!). We are eager to hear what you would like to see on here - please get in touch to suggest more content, themes, interesting links and to let us know what you think.

Warwick Internship Programme

This managed internship programme brings together Warwick students, SMEs and charities for 6 week projects which can be undertaken remotely (if required) over Summer 2022, with funding available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Interested businesses should register to receive details of how to apply.

TeamWork

The TeamWork Virtual Internship Programme connects organisations with multi-disciplinary teams of students from Warwick and other top universities around the world to support a challenge or area of opportunity. Confirmation of interest in being involved in this initiative is required by end January 2022 – and a project brief by end March 2022. This year there is a focus on Charity / Giving Back / Altruism.

Sector Events

The Employer Engagement Team are running a range of events in Spring 2022 and are currently booking alumni speakers to take part in the online panels.

Events will be on the following topics:

• Law and Social Justice
• Careers in Writing, Publishing and Journalism
• Social Media and Blogging
• Broadcasting
• Culture, Heritage and National Trust
• Anyone can Code + Data Science
• International Development
• Not-for Profit
• Non-lab-Based Science Careers (Patent Attorney, Science Communications)
• COVID: Making a difference
• Inclusive Futures Series
• Starting with confidence: Entering the workplace with a disability or mental health concern
• Authentic me: Finding an LGBTQUAI+ friendly employer
• Authentic Inclusion: Identifying a positive employer for graduates of Black, Asian or Ethnic Heritage

If you are a Warwick Engineering graduate or have alumni contacts you think might like to take part, please get in touch.