UQ EDI UnConference 2025

The UQ EDI UnConference is an opportunity for the wider EDI community to connect. With all of the benefits of a traditional conference (networking, knowledge sharing, being positioned as an expert) without the barriers- that means NO presentations. You can expect interactive workshops, creative activities, and opportunities to contribute to EDI projects from around campus.

Everyone is welcome at this event. Whether you are a student, a staff member, or a member of the broader UQ community, your voice matters. You do not need to be an expert in equity, diversity, or inclusion to participate. This is a space for learning together, listening with respect, and sharing when you feel ready. Come and share your lived experience, or learn how to be an active ally.

8:00 am to 8:30 am

Welcome
The organisers will introduce the purpose of the day and share how you can take part in a way that is comfortable for you, what an UnConference is

8:30 am to 9:30 am

Session 1A: Fishbowl Conversation on Underrepresented and Often Misunderstood Voices in EDI
This open conversation explores which voices are often left out of equity and inclusion work and how we can make space for them. You are welcome to listen or speak when ready. All contributions are respected and valued.

9:30 am to 10:30 am

Session 1B: Human Library
In this session, UQ staff and students will share stories from their lived experience. You will have the chance to sit with them one-on-one or in small groups. This is a space to listen deeply and ask gentle, thoughtful questions from people representing diverse areas of the EDI committee.

10:30 am to 11:00 am

Morning Tea
Take a break, enjoy some refreshments, and chat informally with others.

11:00 am to 11:45 pm

Session 2A: World Café
Join small table conversations to share your thoughts on inclusion at UQ. You will move between tables to hear different viewpoints and build on others' ideas. This is a welcoming space for honest dialogue, and a great chance to meet people passionate about the same issues you are!

12:00 pm to 1:00 pm

Session 2B: Workshop on Turning Ideas into Action
This hands-on session builds on the morning’s discussions. Together we will explore ways to apply what we have heard in real and practical ways. You do not need a plan or a perfect idea, just a willingness to explore what change could look like.

1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Lunch, stalls, and Poster Showcase
Enjoy lunch at your own pace and explore posters created by members of the UQ community. These may include research projects, personal stories, or initiatives that support equity and inclusion. Learn more about what is happening at UQ!

2:00 pm to 3:00 pm

Session 3A: Arts and Performance Showcase
Experience stories of identity, inclusion, and belonging through spoken word, music, poetry, and art. This is a space to celebrate creativity and reflect on the many ways people express who they are and what matters to them.

3:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Session 3B: Closing Fishbowl Conversation on Takeaways
We will close the day with a final open conversation. You are invited to share a thought, idea, feeling, or question you are taking with you- or even something you wanted to share but didn't find the right time earlier! Whether you speak or simply listen, your presence is appreciated.

There will also be stalls with EDI related merchandise from minority creators and EDI related networks from UQ.

A quiet room will also be made available.

Expect to leave the day with new actions, connections, and knowledge to further promote EDI at UQ and beyond.

Zoom and In-Person available.

Information on past UnConferences here https://life.uq.edu.au/edi-unconference