On May 28, the Asian PhD Hub convened its monthly event—an ongoing series designed to offer Asian doctoral students in Hungary a platform for intellectual exchange, community building, and personal development. Each month, participants gather around a theme that invites reflection and dialogue. This time, our focus was “My Journey in Leadership,” an exploration of how leadership emerges, evolves, and matures through lived experience.

We were deeply honored to welcome Professor Gábor Halász, Professor Emeritus of ELTE and senior researcher, whose distinguished career in education policy, system innovation, and academic leadership has shaped thinking both in Hungary and internationally. Professor Halász shared his personal leadership story, tracing the key influences and turning points that guided him toward a life of academic inquiry and institutional responsibility.

His talk offered far more than a chronological overview. It illuminated how leadership can be understood as a gradual process—shaped by mentors, enriched through collaboration, and refined through moments of challenge and reflection. He encouraged the audience to think of leadership not as a formal title, but as a way of acting, deciding, and learning in complex environments. His insights resonated especially with young researchers navigating the early stages of their careers, where clarity and confidence often develop slowly.

What made the evening particularly meaningful was the diverse audience it brought together. Asian PhD students—representing multiple countries, fields of study, and research traditions—were joined by students from MCC, creating a truly international and interdisciplinary dialogue. Participants had the opportunity not only to ask questions and share their reflections, but also to connect across cultural and academic backgrounds.

The atmosphere of the event reflected the core mission of the Asian PhD Hub: to build a supportive intellectual community where students can learn from seasoned professionals while developing their own voice and leadership identity. Conversations continued well beyond the formal discussion, as attendees engaged informally, exchanged perspectives, and began forming new connections.

We extend our sincere thanks to Professor Halász for his generosity and openness, and to all participants who contributed to a vibrant, thoughtful evening.

We look forward to welcoming everyone again at our next monthly gathering—where new stories, new insights, and new opportunities for learning await.