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The Social Impact Studio is a hub at the University of Otago where students, staff, and the wider community come together to create positive social change. The focus is on helping students grow the skills, values, and experiences they need to lead change in their communities now and into the future. Through volunteering, leadership development, and social impact opportunities, the Studio prepares students to make a real difference in the world around them.

Activities

  • Volunteering (UniCrew): Connecting students with meaningful volunteer roles across Dunedin. Opportunities range from one-off events to ongoing commitments, allowing students to give back while developing new skills
  • Student Leadership Development: Programmes that grow students’ leadership for social change, including the Emerging Leaders Programme and the Global Impact Scholar Programme for study abroad/exchange students
  • Social Impact Initiatives: The Studio also creates and coordinates its own projects in response to community needs, such as Reading Oasis (literacy support), Minds Together (intergenerational connection), and On Purpose (a social impact speaker series)
  • Community Partnerships: Working closely with local organisations, schools, and community groups to align student energy and skills with community priorities

How to get involved

Keywords: leadership, volunteer, unicrew