Student Spotlight: An Interview with Iqra Mumtaz

Can you tell us about your background and academic journey?

I moved to France from Pakistan eight years ago with my family. Since I didn’t speak French at the time, I had to redo high school before continuing my education. Initially, I studied social economic studies, then pursued law at university before shifting my focus to language and literature. I now specialise in teaching.

How did you first get involved with EUTOPIA?

My first interaction with EUTOPIA was during the COVID-19 pandemic through an online event about health policy. At the time, I didn’t engage much, but about three years ago, I reconnected with EUTOPIA and actively participated in initiatives like the BeEUTOPIAn Conference. That was a turning point for me—it reignited my passion for student engagement and inclusivity, and since then, I’ve been deeply involved in various conferences, events, and discussions.

What EUTOPIA event had the biggest impact on you?

The Ideas Club was a defining experience. It felt like a warm hug—bringing together students from different backgrounds to openly discuss their identities. On our campus, conversations like these weren’t common, so seeing this space created through EUTOPIA was powerful. Meeting people from different universities, sharing experiences, and learning from each other was an eye-opening moment.

You’ve been vocal about diversity and inclusion, especially at the BeEUTOPIAn and Inclusiv(E)UTOPIA conferences. What were your main takeaways?

At the BeEUTOPIAn Conference, I focused on inclusion and diversity, topics I’ve been passionate about from the beginning. As an international student and a woman from a marginalised community, these issues are personal to me. The conference provided a platform to address real challenges students face.

At the “Inclusiv(E)UTOPIA? How can alliances build a truly inclusive culture?” conference, I spoke about “Diversity Beyond Numbers”, emphasising that true inclusivity isn’t just about representation—it’s about meaningful integration. Some felt my perspective was critical of universities, but my goal was to start an honest conversation addressing the gap between the concept of equality and the actual experiences of students. Universities often promote diversity, but true equity—where all students feel seen, heard, and supported—requires more action.

How has EUTOPIA influenced your academic and personal growth?

EUTOPIA has been transformative, not just academically but personally. It has pushed me to take leadership roles and actively contribute to my community. The support and inspiration I received through EUTOPIA made me want to create similar spaces for students on my own campus, leading to the creation of The Mosaic Society (TMS).

What is The Mosaic Society?

The Mosaic Society (TMS) was directly inspired by my experiences at EUTOPIA events like the Ideas Club and the BeEUTOPIAn Conference. Unlike EUTOPIA, which is mainly structured by staff and organisers across universities, TMS is entirely student-led. As the president, our mission is to embrace and celebrate diversity, creating a space where students from different backgrounds can connect, share, and learn from one another. At TMS, we recognise that diversity brings complexity, but we see that as something to celebrate. We aim to foster unity and cohesion through events and discussions that encourage cultural exchange.

What initiatives has The Mosaic Society launched so far, and what are your long-term goals?

One of our biggest initiatives has been launching a Model United Nations here at CY Cergy Paris University. I hope this becomes a lasting tradition, even after I leave for my master’s degree. We also plan to organise cultural celebrations, like the Indian festival of Holi, and we hope to introduce an Eid festival as well. The goal is to create a space where students feel represented and connected, much like what I experienced through EUTOPIA.

What role can students play in EUTOPIA?

Students are at the heart of EUTOPIA’s mission. We bring real experiences, challenges, and ideas to the table. The alliance provides great opportunities, but it’s up to us to engage, initiate discussions, and push for meaningful change. If we want more inclusive and dynamic campuses, we need to actively participate, challenge norms, and support one another.