What Purpose Lab taught me about purpose-driven leadership

Attending the Purpose Lab Celebratory Reception in London was a defining moment for me as a Student Ambassador and as someone committed to driving positive change. Representing Liverpool John Moores University at an event that brought together leaders from education, industry and government allowed me to step forward with confidence and contribute as a young voice shaping the future.  

The Purpose Coalition brings together the most innovative leaders in the United Kingdom along with Parliamentarians and businesses who work together to share best practice and create solutions that expand opportunity and strengthen social mobility. Being part of this purpose driven environment showed me how ideas make real impact when people unite around a shared mission. 

A particularly powerful moment for me was speaking with Rt Hon Justine Greening. Engaging with someone who has played a major role in national policy and seeing how openly she welcomed the voices of young leaders made me realise that influence does not depend on age or seniority. The journey into leadership begins with moments when we choose to step forward, speak honestly and represent the experiences of those who are still finding their way. 

Throughout the reception I had conversations with senior figures whose insights broadened my understanding of collaboration and its impact on future opportunities. My discussion with Stuart Buglass of Crowe UK LLP helped me understand how workplaces are evolving to welcome new talent and how purpose is becoming central to organisational success. Speaking with Phil Simcock of Royal Holloway, University of London showed me how universities are adapting to prepare students for the challenges of a competitive professional world. My conversation with Clare Dawson of the University of Worcester highlighted the importance of strong support systems in unlocking the full potential of young people. Each of these conversations reinforced my belief that students have a vital role in shaping the systems we will one day help lead. 

The most exciting development for me came through my conversation with Laura Brimacombe, Growth Director at Sodexo. Our discussion went far beyond a single interaction. We have already begun collaborating on a number of ideas that align with the mission of Purpose Lab and we are moving forward with early project work that I am incredibly excited about. 

Laura made it clear that she sees value in student insight and she treated me as a partner in innovation rather than simply a student representative. Her encouragement and willingness to work with me has strengthened my confidence and shown me what real purpose-led leadership looks like. This developing collaboration is something I am proud of and something I know will lead to meaningful outcomes.   

What made the entire event especially meaningful was the atmosphere of shared talent. The hospitality team were students, the chefs preparing the food were also students. It felt like a living example of opportunity creating more opportunity and a powerful demonstration of what happens when organisations trust and invest in young people. 

As I left the reception, I felt proud of the way I represented my university and proud of the contributions I made in each conversation. I also felt deeply motivated to continue growing as a leader who acts with purpose, confidence and a commitment to positive change. Purpose Lab has shown me that leadership is not something we wait to achieve in the future. It is something we practice today by using our voice and standing up for the opportunities we want to see for others. 

By Suren Hayrapetyan, Liverpool John Moores University student and Purpose Lab student ambassador