Organised and led by international PhD students at the University of Auckland, this vibrant event brought together researchers, staff, and students from across the globe to celebrate ideas, collaboration, and community. From inspiring keynote speeches to lively discussions and laughter-filled moments, the symposium showed what happens when students take the lead, and succeed! Special thanks to our sponsors and co-organisers: School of Graduate Studies of Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland New Zealand Asia Institute (NZAI) of Waipapa Taumata Rau | The University of Auckland Auckland Chinese Students and Scholars Association Auckland University Students' Association Juncture: Dialogues on Inclusive Capitalism Research Centre Grin Natural Asia Pacific Science Press Auckland Chinese Students and Scholars Association Fujian Zhongdian Straits Institute of Intelligent Equipment