Peers' care combats stress

In South Africa, participants had the opportunity to connect with other students and take part in group discussions to explore their understanding of leadership and the role that students can play in a support network.

The opening session saw Damian Medina, assistant dean of student affairs at Duke Kunshan, offer his insight into initiatives regarding mental health and well-being alongside Lisa Bardill Moscaritolo, IASAS secretary-general and associate vice-president and dean for students at Pace University in the United States, and Birgit Schreiber, senior director of student affairs at Stellenbosch University and vice-president of IASAS.

In addition to activities at the university, the group from Duke Kunshan also visited cultural sites. "One of my favorite nights was when we all got together and taught each other famous dances and music from our home countries. The nature and scenery were also breathtaking," Gonzalez says. "Learning about South African culture was great. I felt welcomed and enjoyed the energy and enthusiasm of the people."

Participants at the summit said they would return to their universities and deliver a considered, coordinated response to issues of mental health that could lead to more sustainable and impactful solutions.

Guan Shuyi, another Chinese undergraduate from Duke Kunshan who made the trip to South Africa, says the summit helped her realize the impressive impact that student-run organizations can have. Her university launched a student leader development program last year, with its members now engaging in social projects such as environmental protection and supporting vulnerable members of society.

"Students should be the true leaders and shoulder the responsibility of creating a healthy and dynamic campus atmosphere by initiating a variety of events," she adds.