Fostering Inclusivity: The “Happy to Chat” Campaign at Brunel University London

Universities today operate as international corporate brands, expected to uphold and deliver their third mission of university social responsibility. Recognising that students are the most important stakeholder group; this chapter discusses the importance of treating all students fairly and changing the current practice of viewing international students as cash cows. It highlights the need to support international students and acknowledge the challenges they face while studying abroad. This is illustrated through a case study of Brunel University London, which is rated as one of the most diverse universities internationally, and its adoption of the “Happy to Chat” social campaign, which aims to foster inclusivity and engagement among a diverse student population, led to its winning of the Kindness in Education award in 2023. We present “Happy to Chat” as a diversity and inclusion intervention at the interpersonal and intercultural level. By acknowledging and valuing cultural and other forms of diversity, the campaign helps bridge cultural gaps and promotes a sense of belonging. “Happy to Chat” at Brunel University exemplifies how simple, inclusive actions can significantly impact community cohesion and student well-being.